"There's a hole in the world tonight, don't let there be a hole in the world tomorrow." - The Eagles.

As I pen down these words, it's been nearly three weeks since Hurricane Helene, which later transformed into Tropical Storm Helene, swept through Western North Carolina. I won't delve into the details, as the news and social media have covered them extensively. Instead, as a fellow resident, I want to share my observations and issue a resounding call to action. Our community has the power to make a significant difference, and we all must play our part in the recovery process.

Once the rain and high winds subsided, a new challenge emerged- the storm's aftermath. The storm, striking in the dead of night, left us with no choice but to wait until daybreak to assess the damage. It severely disrupted power, utilities, and communication, causing widespread panic. Residents queued for hours at gas stations to fuel their cars and generators. For several days, cash was the only means to pay for essential services and food. As I write this, many communities still grapple with power and water outages. However, federal, state, and local agencies are working tirelessly on restoration, and we must continue to support these efforts. Our support is not just a gesture but a vital contribution that we owe to our community. Each one of us is valued and needed in this recovery process.

A wonderful thing happened almost immediately - people came together to help each other. This unity, this mutual support, truly binds us as a community. Local first responder agencies began search and rescue operations. Public works and utility companies assessed and began their vital work to bring normalcy to affected areas. Faith-based communities, local non-profits, and citizens established supply collection sites to aid those in need. All this unfolded before the arrival and support of state and federal agencies -something that takes time on their part. People are helping people, and this shared effort makes us feel connected. With the assistance of FEMA, the State of North Carolina, the American Red Cross, the National Guard, a pack mule organization, and countless first responders and linemen from other states, we continue the delivery of precious commodities to the areas most devastated by the storm.

Don Henley of The Eagles began writing the song "Hole in the World" on September 11th, 2001, and completed the composition during the early months of the war in Iraq in 2003. While this song was apropos of that period, I will offer my thoughts on how it is still relevant today.

This song addressed the devastation and division that occurred in our country. As in 2001, there remains a division in our country and world today, probably more so. I remember that the events of 9/11 created a common bond, but after a year, maybe two, we grew further apart as a nation.

In parallel to 2001, our 2024 "hole" (the aftermath of Hurricane Helene) has brought us closer together during these rebuilding and recovery efforts. Less than a week after Helene, conspiracy theories about lithium mining and the lack of assistance during the recovery operations began to emerge on social media outlets. These "theories" or reports attempt to drive a wedge in our unity and may even be AI-generated. Please be more discerning with the information you digest. News and personal accounts of those on the ground say otherwise.

The Eagles implored with the call to action, "Don't let there be a hole in the world tomorrow." This powerful statement asks us to refrain from returning to the way things were before the natural disaster (at that time, a terrorist attack). I am unsure if I am being idealistic, but wouldn't it be nice to treat each other with kindness and empathy? Many I have crossed paths with since Helene roared through here have made similar statements. Will these become empty words or a new way of being? Until next time -

Namaste,

Tim

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