I'm pretty much into almost any social media for the pictures, so exploring Flickr was sort of a happy place for me after the week that those of us in the Houston area have endured. I was lost for hours just exploring the different groups and elements that made each photograph unique. My favorite part was probably going through The Weekly Flicker. This was more than just looking at pictures, but it provided the stories that had developed the photographers. I guess that's what I really like about looking at images. I know that with each image, there is a unique story that needs to be told.
I did upload a couple of my own unique, yet amateur images, just to say I did, but the image that really spoke to me today was this one:
The author has not allowed download privileges, so I have to link.
This week has been one like none I've ever lived. A week ago today, I awoke to a community in devastation. At this time, 7 days ago, I could not confirm the safety of some of my closest friends. A week later, I have countless stories of how neighbors have helped neighbors through catastrophe. I have seen God present himself to people who may never have considered a relationship. Although my house has not been damaged, my life has been forever changed by the miracles I have seen God perform. Our empty nest is full again at the moment, as we have taken in a family of 5, along with their 3 cats, a dog, and a turtle. We're not the only ones. While some are tearing out sheetrock and helping residents of the neighborhood next to ours demolish walls and clear belongings ravaged by the storm, others are cooking meals to feed first responders, medical staff, and those still in shelters. Some are walking down the streets with plates to feed those who may not stop working on their homes long enough to eat otherwise. Some are washing clothes for people remaining in shelters, while others of us are now taking in 15+ bags of clothes pulled from flood waters to try to save what we can.
Our community has worked relentlessly through this last week, but today is Sunday. We're taking a moment to breathe, take in all that has happened, and mostly taking time to thank God for all that he has done. It may take a while before I can enjoy a rainy day, and I may need therapy to not cringe when an emergency alarm goes off on cell phones around me, but for today, for a little while, I get to worship and rest in the arms of my God. This picture represents that rest. Not just sleep, but a peaceful, protected slumber that despite all that there is still to do, we all need.
Come to me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
Your words were very genuine and sincere. I'm a photo searcher when I have time much like yourself, so Flickr was perfect for me as well.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your thoughts.