In the time of need?

Unfortunately, I have never been more disgusted, more disappointed, with the human race as I was today.

                I went on YouTube to see about the tornadoes that have affected the Great Plains. I was not prepared for the devastation that I saw. It’s surreal to see so many people, so many homes and businesses, so many trees, all gone. It looks like a steamroller went over expansions of America’s Breadbasket. I’m kind of overwhelmed with just how terrible conditions are, there. But, then, I think, what are these people going through? Can you even imagine? No. You can’t. The loss of everything around them. I have so much respect for the victims of these storms, because I cannot even fathom the heartbreak and pain they’re dealing with. It reminds me just how strong Americans are. Just how strong communities can be.

But, then, I read the comments on the videos.

                I was expecting to find things like, “Our prayers are with you.” Or, “I’m sorry this has happened.” Or, “You all are in our thoughts.” That’s not at all what I found. Almost every comment was either something calling someone out for believing in God, or it was a post of how God is punishing us for gay marriage, or something about how the other partisanship is to blame. 

               Come on people. What has become of America? We have our neighbors that are struggling and broken. And, instead of trying to lift them up, people are arguing over which partisanship is better. I’m completely dumbfounded at how people have let a “label” cloud their judgment and sense of compassion.

Please, please realize that whether you are to the left or to the right, if you’re gay or straight, or if you were born here or are considered a Permanent Resident, we are all Americans. And, our neighbors are hurting. Don’t think for a second that it’s okay to behave this way. It’s not.

• Christians, pray for these people. If you can do more, then do. 
• Atheists and agnostics, think of these people. Help them, if you can. 
• Other religions, do what you can to help.

We, as humans, owe it to each other to take care of each other when we can. To reach out to those that need our help.

• Religion does not dictate whether you help someone. 
• Sexual orientation does not dictate whether you help someone. 
• Race or gender does not dictate whether you help someone.

Your individual character, who you are, dictates that.

All of those affected by these terrible storms, please know that I am praying for you, with all that I am. The respect that I have for you grows each and every day. 

Stay strong. <3