The storm that change my perspective
It never quite seems real when you see on the news what a gust of wind and debris can do in a matter of minutes. Even when you hear the stories third handed, sometimes there is a diconnect. At least there was for me.
It was supposed to be a nice vacation visiting family friends. Only days before a storm blow in, took brief residence, and a forever impression. I saw first hand a woman near about my age in barely could hold back tears as she surveyed the wreckage of her home. It hit home.
Too close. I, still a week later, have little words to be able to describe. For most, it would be chalked up as sad news. For me…I can’t stop thinking about the woman. I’d would have gotten out of the car and had a conversation with her. Eventually I’d asked persmission to photograph. I photograph people that move me. She reminded me why it’s important to feel, to tell stories…but real stories, the stories that happen in everyday life. The kind of stories that impact people lives and to wake up. To wake me up.
According to this article, from Alive.com, originally thought to be an EF-2 was upgraded to EF-3 had 135-140 mph traveling to Alabama where it’s wrecking trail continued killing at least 23 people. According to the Assoiciated in nearly the six years it had been one of the most teacherous tornadoes since the of when 39 tornadoes touch ground in 2000
For three days I debated whether or not to write. It’s not normally my style to record wreckage. But it is real, it is a story that so many are living. Yet, Hope was resided there.
Strangers from all over came to help. Nothing more than simply to help where they can put lives back together again. It was only a couple of days that it had happened and yet a town came together to help one another.
Sounds a little strange to bring this in, but it’s true. “For better or for worse.” Those vows that are usually made in weddings, apply really to every day life. This town proved that neighbors are there for each other. They love each other enough to do hard things, to help, and then re-build.