In The Storm

Being a Floridian in hurricane season, I found the title to be fitting. Growing up, I have always enjoyed the symbolism behind seasonal changes. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven". Unfortunately, Florida does not experience many seasonal changes, but it is sort of fitting considering our population makeup is a majority elder. For many of them, they’ve already weathered the seasons of life, navigating its highs and lows, its joys and challenges. Now, they’re in a place where they can enjoy the steady warmth and calm that Florida offers. It’s a sense of stability, a peaceful rhythm, after a life full of change.

But even though there’s comfort in stability, change is still important. Look at the Grand Canyon, for example. It was carved out by the steady erosion of the Colorado River. I can’t help but nerd out imagining the sheer force, power, and time it took to create something so amazing. Erosion is simply a gradual change, and while it can be tough, it is what shaped something as stunning as the Grand Canyon. On a smaller scale, we see change in other ways too, like the Statue of Liberty. When it was first gifted to the U.S. from France, it arrived in large, beautiful copper pieces. But over time, oxidation caused the copper to react with oxygen, giving it the iconic green color we see today. What started out pure and shiny transformed into something even more unique and beautiful through this natural process of change. It’s the hard stuff we go through that shapes us into something more beautiful.

In a biblical sense, Romans 5: 3-5 says "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope". As a little girl, I used to pray, "God, give me a faith like Job. Allow me to endure trials to glorify You." Well, God certainly didn’t hold back in answering that prayer! Life has been anything but smooth, especially in the past few years. It's been chaotic and challenging, but through it all, I’m reminded that these trials are shaping me into something stronger and beautiful, something filled with hope.

Just like the Bible story of Noah's Ark. In that story, God used complete destruction to pave the way for something new and beautiful. The hurricanes that have hit Florida and other states have been devastating, and it’s heartbreaking to witness the destruction, loss, and uncertainty that so many of my friends, neighbors, and patients have experienced. Yet, in a strange and unexpected way, these storms have also brought about a kind of beauty. Communities that once seemed divided by politics, religion, and economic differences have come together and reunited in the face of hardship. These hurricanes have reminded me that change, though often scary, can be beautiful.

So, I want to encourage you: while you're in the midst of the storm, hold on to the hope that something beautiful will emerge on the other side.

Never hesitate to reach out and I will gladly pray for you!