The Complex Process of Recovery

Four weeks have passed since my knee replacement surgery. I am doing well but recovery is slower than I would like. However, it is not my recovery from surgery that I am focused upon this week. Over the last four weeks I have had a great deal of time to watch the news and keep up to date on the flooding in Texas, New Mexico, and other areas of our nation. Most, if not all of the broadcasts have put their attention on the recovery efforts by first responders and countless volunteers. The main focus has been on the rescue of those swept by the flood waters. As time has passed, a second focus has emerged relating to the recovery of those individuals who died as result of the storms. When rescue and recovery of individuals is completed and first responders return home, is the process of recovery completed? The following paragraphs are intended to draw our attention to the complex process of recovery that can stretch for numerous years.

PERSONS RESCUED - Many children and adults were rescued from the flooding waters, from trees, and cars, and cabins. Most, if not all, share two things in common. First, they are thankful that they survived. But second, most have guilt that they were saved while parents, siblings, friends, and children are among those who did not survive. Who will stand beside these survivors for weeks, months, and even years as they seek to recover the hope and dreams that filled their lives before July 4, 2025?

PROPERTY AND LAND RECLAIMED - When the trees, cars, and houses are cleared away, what will be the future of land that was ravaged by the flooding? Will someone suggest markers or monuments be placed on the site or will others want to rebuilt the Christian camps as a sign that the floods didn't win? I don't have a suggestion. I remember that after Nine-eleven, it took several years to determine the use of the land where the Twin Towers had stood in New York.

CAUSES AND PREVENTIVE PLANS DISCUSSED AND APPROVED - Already there has been some discussion as to who was at fault for the slow warning about the flood. Will more stones be cast to level blame? Will safety features finally be put in place to hopefully prevent a similar disaster in the future? Who knows? Politics move slowly in the face of tragedy.

BUT MOST NEEDED OF ALL - EMOTIONAL, MENTAL, AND PHYSICAL RECOVERY FOR FIRST RESPONDERS, SURVIVORS, AND THOSE IN GRIEF. While all who have watched the news and kept up with the tragedy, none of us have been impacted like those who lived through the horror of the floods and its aftermath. Survivors saw their loved ones swept away. First responders and numerous volunteers rescued many survivors but also found the bodies of children and parents who didn't survive. Those images are forever etched into their minds. Others who were rescued and many others who were safely in their homes received calls that their loved one was one of those who did not survive. Grief does not end with a found body or a funeral service. Grief is a process that requires the lengthy support, love, and encouragement of those who stand beside day after day and year after year.

In the Letter to the Galatians found in the Bible, is a powerful verse that seems to be most appropriate for these days:

"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill

the law of Christ."

Galatians 6:2

It is true that churches, ministers, many organizations, and extended family and friends will become helpful support for so many who have been touched by these storms. However, we must not exclude ourselves as supporters. It may be that in your community, neighborhood, or family, someone may be one of those in need of support. May all be willing to make ourselves available to help bear someone else's burdens. Time spent listening, words of love shared, and practical acts of service may be what helps someone else get through.

Recovery is not a simple, quick process. It is complex and requires all of us to become the servants that God may choose to help another. Be ready as the needs arise.