As hurricanes, Irma and Maria, unleashed their devastation throughout my beloved island of Puerto Rico, I’m filled with emotions that touch down deep within my soul. It is the inexplicable feeling that overcomes one’s senses reminding us of how vulnerable we all truly are. I contemplate while viewing the images of murky, water currents flowing through what normally would be lively and busy roads. I can’t help, but think of the amazing people and the spirit that this island possesses. I’m soon reminded of all the memories I can draw upon from my childhood years, yearly vacations, and the four years I returned to study medicine where the island again, for a short time, became my home.
There is so much strength, beauty, love, and faith in this tiny island and it is easily reflected within its people. As I think of those affected by the hurricane, I wonder how my friends and family are fairing during this difficult time. There is no way to communicate with them at this moment to find out if they are safe. Last time I spoke with my eighty-two year old aunt (and role model), she was doing what she does best, helping others. I talked to her to find out if she could host a couple of American tourists who were stranded on the island after the airport was closed a week ago. At first, she seemed distracted and I asked her what she was doing. She responded, “delivering sandwiches for people to eat.”
She and my cousins own a bakery, La Viequense, in San Juan known for its incredibly tasty bread. Anyone who knows my aunt is familiar with her immense sense of charity. It is almost innate in her DNA. As expected, she immediately accepted to help the tourists as she delivered food to those who were in need. My mother informed me another day that my aunt was providing police officers on the streets with gallons of water to ensure they remained adequately hydrated. This is the type of example that gives me courage and hope to believe that we are all capable of becoming better versions of ourselves. These difficult times allow us to reconnect with genuine affection for others and draw out our sense of responsibility toward our neighbors. Our egos and superficial needs take a backseat to what ultimately matters most, love and kindness.
In Texas, people are grappling with the effects of Harvey while those in Florida contend with the aftermath of Irma. Meanwhile, in Mexico, an earthquake has decimated and killed over two hundred people. Children are trapped in a school building while efforts get underway to save those who they are able to find. As for natural disasters, there is not a whole lot that can be done to prevent them. However, there are currently many others suffering due to the Rohingya genocide in Myanmar while President Kim Jong-un in North Korea does not seem to care about the ramifications of his actions against his people as he foolishly taunts our country and allies. Without engaging in a political discussion, sometimes there is just no right answer and I watch from afar feeling like my hands are tied.
Unfortunately, there have always been and always will be difficult times. However, it is up to us to use the examples of fortitude these tragedies bring forth and to always choose to rise to a level where our actions are congruent to those of our ideals. Let us see one another in a different light starting today. Let’s continue to uphold our old-fashioned values of respecting and caring for those who cross our life’s path. Even though my family is at the mercy of these current events, I have faith that some unsung heroes will surface and provide the much needed aid the beautiful island of Puerto Rico and its people deserve.
I pray that my family is well and for the safety of all victims enduring life’s tragedies. I’m certain that people will continue to band together and this will one day become a faded memory replaced by much happier times. Until then, please donate to relief efforts if you can and remember that every little bit counts. May all affected by these current events find strength in one another because at the end of the day, that is all we have.
September 23, 2017 Update:
I would like to add that since I posted this article, my family and friends are safe. Here are some reliable links for organizations if you’re interested in donating:
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2)
http://www.losambulantes.com/help-puerto-rico/
