I've Never Been To Spain, But I've Been To Oklahoma
There are times when the events of the day make you realize that your own problems are insignificant. Monday was one of those days.
I was thinking about a piece concerning doctors and drugs/medical marijuana. I can do that anytime, and I will sooner than later. Like I said Monday afternoon made it insignificant.
When I woke up on Monday, I knew I was going to have a rough day. I never felt quite right. My balance was way off. I was tired early. Usually I'm worn out in the afternoon. Monday, I was ready for a nap by 10:00am. Besides the physical, days like these get to me emotionally. It's easy to start feeling sorry for yourself. Little did I know that was all about to change in just a few hours.
I attended college at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma. If you drive North from Norman, Moore is the next town, just minutes from the OU campus.
I left Oklahoma almost forty years ago, but I still cherish my time there. The people I consider my closest friends, I met in college. I feel like I grew up during my time there, although some might say that still hasn't happened yet. Even though I haven't been there in years, I still feel like the folks in that area are my people.
All of us are saddened and shocked by the total destruction in Moore. You have to be moved when you see the pictures. This is the second tornado to ravage Moore since 1999.
It sure makes your personal issues seen small. It definitely makes you appreciate the good things in your life. The problems I mentioned earlier are still going to be there from time to time. I'll still be frustrated about them but for now, I consider myself lucky.
As of yesterday, about 100 families from Moore were staying in campus housing at the University of Oklahoma. We've seen volunteers come in to help. They include the baseball teams from the University of West Virginia and Oklahoma State University. They're in Oklahoma City for the Big 12 baseball team but have found time to help deliver supplies. Kevin Durant, from the Oklahoma City Thunder basketball team has donated 1 million dollars.
There are ways to help if you feel inclined. It could be as simple as texting a donation from you cell phone to the Red Cross. Check out the OU web site for more information at http://www.ou.edu
Keep those people in your prayers and thoughts the next few days. They'll need them.