It is hard to fathom the extent of human suffering and loss in the wake of the devastating tornadoes in Oklahoma this week.
As I try to comprehend the human suffering in the town of Moore, I have been struck by the amazing strength of the people of Oklahoma and by the kindness of America.
Table of Contents
American Kindness
Men and women from surrounding towns, cities, counties and states have rushed to the aid of their fellow countrymen. Their devotion and goodness makes me proud to be an American. It humbles me to see so many people pulling together to help each other in this great time of need.
America's extreme and violent weather patterns stunned me when I first came to live in this country. Irish weather can be wet and miserable, and sometimes stormy. In my childhood years I never experienced the wild and brutal battles of hot and cold fronts clashing over extensive, flat plains. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and blizzards are severe weather events I grew to appreciate only after moving to the United States.
My years living in Texas and Kentucky have taught me springtime storms are dependable, seasonal phenomena. The severity of these storms is the only unpredictable variable. But weather disasters of this week's magnitude remain hard to comprehend, even I expect for those born and raised in tornado alley.
Prayers for Tornado Victims
And so, I pray for the suffering people of Moore, Oklahoma.
I admire and applaud the bravery of all the men and women who are helping those in need.
I offer prayers of comfort and support to those who have been injured or have lost their homes. May you once again find peace of mind.
I extend my sympathies to the families and friends of those killed. My heart aches for those who have lost their sweet, precious children.
For those who feel helpless, may you find comfort and hope in the kindness of America.
Sending my love and prayers to Oklahoma.
Slán agus beannacht,
(Goodbye and blessings)
Mairéad -Irish American Mom
Pronunciation - slawn ah-gus ban-ock-th
Mairéad - rhymes with parade
P.S. For anyone looking for ways to help, Ree Drummond, a rancher's wife from Oklahoma who writes The Pioneer Woman blog, has created a comprehensive list of ways to give in her recent post called Oklahoma.
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Pat F.
What a beautiful statement to America's kindness, and love for their neighbors, and even strangers. We seem to only hear the bad things about our country. Thank you for reminding us of the wonderful people in this great country. God Bless Oklahoma.
Irish American Mom
Pat - America's kindness is not just evident when disaster strikes. So many times since I have come to America my friends and neighbors have offered support and help without even being asked. When my triplets were born friends rallied around us, cooked us meals and offered us so much support. Americans are truly kind and thoughtful, and I will be forever grateful after experiencing their goodness.
All the best,
Mairéad
Kay G.
Dear Mairead,
I loved that so many people showed up wanting to help (the authorities turned them away but still, they were THERE!)
"The hope and kindess of America", this is a beautiful post and I thank you for it.
The people of Oklahoma are strong and they will get through this with our support!
Glad you mentioned The Pioneer Woman, I just knew she would do something like that!!
Irish American Mom
Thanks for stopping by, Kay. The Pioneer Woman did a great job listing all the ways people can help. Keeping the people of Oklahoma in my prayers.
All the best,
Mairéad
brian@irelandfavorites
Hi Mairead, Our prayers go out to all in Oklahoma, the interviews of those who did not lose loved ones in the tornadoes is inspiring, they are thankful to have lost only their homes and possessions, they are saddened by their neighbors grief and loss of loved ones. This heartland of America is the heart and soul of America, they renew my love of the United States.
You may like to checkout Gordon Sinclair's radio address on youtube for more evidence of how we go about things. The media may think we are a nation looking for a handout or government assistance, but in reality the fly over country, the rural people, the independent American citizens of this country do a much better job of taking care of our neighbors on our own. I repeat your and Kay G's advice to hit the link at the bottom of your article to see the private organizations that can use our money to help.
Thank you for your article,
Brian.
Irish American Mom
Brian - The heartland of America is truly where you find strong people, with grit, determination together with a gentle kindness and empathy for others. Thanks for letting me know about Gordon Sinclair's radio address. He may have spoken those words in the 1960's, but sadly to this day Americans do not get credit for their willingness to help, and to give generously to other countries.
Once again, Americans will band together, give generously of time and money and rebuild Moore, Oklahoma.
Take care,
Mairéad