Hurricanes can make deeper roots grow

THE EDITOR, Madam:

No one today can prevent the storm from coming, or make it obey them by simply saying ‘hush’, as to an unruly pet (Mark 4:39). No one can be too prepared for these unforeseeable monsters that break from swirling cages this time of the year. Everyone can do without the unnecessary nuisances caused by the likes of a carefree Melissa.

Hurricanes accelerate depression, loneliness, physical lack and general gloominess. Yet, there may still be some silver linings around the clouds when a hurricane strikes. For instance, powerful storms disrupt power supplies – electricity water and other modern conveniences that make life an easy ride. The Internet is often in a tangle, or is broken apart in the face of a Category 5. How does a hurricane help anyone to grow roots? When power supplies are broken, people are forced to be self- sufficient and self-reliant

Electric stoves, microwaves and refrigerators, being out of service, often make survival into the reliance on wood or coal stoves, especially for deep rural residents. Maybe people who have grown accustomed to a cushy easy-street living will revert to curing meat and fish, if canned foods seem too ‘common-status’. The ability to innovate during a disaster is not a backward move, but presents an opportunity for structuring character.

Speedy communication is always a positive thing, especially during a storm where families and loved ones can keep in touch, even as the winds developed. Yet, studies have consistently linked the comfort of modern living with negatives. For instance, children who spend excessive hours on social media or browsing the Internet have grown to have unrealistic expectations – they have become withdrawn, antisocial, ungrateful – and are accustomed to receiving things on a platter. They can also develop suicidal tendencies if the rug of comfort is suddenly yanked from under their feet.

The chance to have in-person interaction is more available when the clutches of modern life are temporarily interrupted.People can use their inborn powers to arrive at answers and escape modern inertia. Another positive that comes when roads are blocked during a storm, especially for rural dwellers, is that it provides meaningful walking exercises that improve circulation and general well-being.

So, there are no perfect times to host a self-invited Hurricane like Melissa, yet, in spite of the disruptions caused by downed power lines and trees, the aftermath can actually provide the soil for spreading useful internal roots.

HOMER SYLVESTER

Jacksonville, Florida