I am writing this from the Hawaiian Islands as hurricane Iselle and Julio are passing through. We flew our passengers out here and soon thereafter, the inbound flights from the mainland to the islands were cancelled for safety. There have been no jets to fly from the islands back to the mainland for a time.
I has been tough to see the fear and concern of the local people who live here as well as the tourists who are here to vacation. Knowing now that the people across the islands are now safe, there has been only minor damage and flooding, and we still having electricity for the most part, I feel very blessed and grateful for this day!
Hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, tornadoes, volcanoes, fires, avalanches, etc. can stop us in our tracks. No matter if you are at your home, in your local area, or far away, you must be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. If something happens, where will you go? What will you do? I want you to think about these things right now. It is so easy to be in denial and think “this just won’t happen to me”. The best piece of equipment you have is your brain! Do not shut it down. Think. Do not allow yourself to panic. Stay strong, stay focused, use all of your resources and have a plan. If your plan falls apart, be flexible, be creative, and come up with other solutions. Help other people if you are able to.
In your home, know your escape route. In the local stores, remember where the exits are. On the jets, always look to see where the nearest door or window is located for egress. At your hotel, know where the nearest stairs are. In your offices, be familiar with how to get out when you need to. I tend to be a “water-aholic” and a “water snob” since I am a big advocate on pure, filtered, and alkaline water but this item becomes critical in a time of crisis. Make sure you have access to clean water. Always have several fully charged flashlights and candles with lighters or matches nearby. Fully charged cell phones become a gold commodity when the electricity is gone. Dry foods, blankets, layers of clothing, and books should be available. (I added books simply because they make good distractors during very stressful times!). Always no where the nearest safe shelters are in your area – these are usually schools, recreational centers, stadiums, etc.
We should all learn from lessons past during times of crisis. Let’s be strong, smart, prepared, and altruistic in how we handle ourselves. Think about those heroes on September 11th 2001 who ran into those precarious buildings to help save others as so many were rushing out. Think about those people who volunteered to search through toxic rubble in New York, Haiti, Louisiana, etc. to help others. Think about those people who were there for each other and who also helped to rebuild lives when it seemed like all was lost. Think about those passengers who bravely rushed the cockpit of United flight 93 to prevent any further damage to our nation. Think about all those soldiers and their families who have sacrificed and have put their lives on the line to protect us.
#1 Make sure you are healthy and safe. #2 Make sure your family and friends are protected. #3 Be those heroes who act with care and kindness – this can transform the world!
*If you have not seen this yet, I highly recommend watching the movie “The Impossible”! It is an incredible true story of a family who endured a recent and extreme natural disaster. It will move your soul and really open your eyes. Thank you.
Be safe out there!! Blue Skies! Z 6