My husband Scott and I were in Costa Rica when we heard the news of the catastrophic floods that swept through the Texas Hill Country. We were in shock reading the endless personal stories of the tragic natural disaster that changed the lives of so many and brought so much loss. I could not imagine what parents, children, friends and relatives were enduring in the search for their loved ones. I felt absolutely helpless watching it all unfold while being thousands of miles away and my heart ached for everyone being affected.
I kept thinking, What can I do from here? What can any of us do when we can’t be there in person to lift the debris, hold the hand, share the burden?
The truth is we are never truly helpless. Energy holds an incredible amount of power.
It has been beautiful to witness everyone coming together to respond to the urgent needs of the communities affected. Texas has felt the influx of support from their local community, state and resources beyond state and country borders merging all for the sole purpose of helping a neighbor in need. The search, rescue and recovery teams are doing the work of angels. And those volunteers who are putting their energies towards providing food, shelter and cleanup for the communities are showing up at the highest level.
When we returned, my family and I volunteered at Austin Pets Alive and cleaned cat cages in preparation for this non-profit receiving more than 100 cats and countless dogs from the flood area. This animal shelter is amazing and is truly stepping up to support the overflow of pets coming from the affected area.
In times like these, when tragedy strikes and grief feels overwhelming, there are many ways we can show up:
- We can listen. When our friends and neighbors speak about their losses, we can hold space for them and simply witness. Bearing witness is powerful.
- We can give. Whether it’s financial donations, supplies, or amplifying the efforts of trusted relief organizations, our contributions create ripples of relief.
- We can pray or send healing intentions. However you connect spiritually, do it. Light a candle. Whisper the names of those affected. Send the community energies of protection and courage to make it through this incredibly challenging time.
- We can remember and honor. Long after the news cameras move on, these communities are still rebuilding. The need doesn’t end when the headlines do.
To everyone in Kerrville and the Texas Hill Country we see you, we are holding you close and we are grieving with you. You are not alone.
And to anyone feeling helpless like I did, remember that love has no borders. You don’t have to be near to care deeply. You are doing something just by holding this moment in your heart and asking how you can help.
Together, we rise by lifting one another. Hill Country Strong!
If you are able, here are a list of vetted places where you can make a donation or volunteer and make a huge difference.
Austin Pets Alive – Supplies, Volunteers, Fosters, Donations
HEB Spirit of Giving Fund – Donations
Ark of Highland Lakes – Supplies, Volunteers, Donations
TEXSAR – Donations for Search, Rescue and Recovery Efforts
by Kim Goyette
This week’s 6 minute Breathing to Relax the Nervous System is all about using the breath to turn on the parasympathetic nervous system. We will do a simple breathing technique where we will slow down the breath and make the exhale longer than the inhale, putting us in a relaxed state. Yoga with Meditation Mutha is for everyBODY. Please join me in this opportunity to find peace in your body and mind. Enjoy!
Please subscribe to the Yoga with Meditation Mutha Youtube Channel to be the first to receive weekly videos. And check out www.meditationmutha.com to learn about yoga retreats happening around the world and tips for “Living Simply Extraordinary”.
