Hurricanes

Many of you probably heard about Hurricane Ida, not because it was dangerous but because it was the only hurricane to hit the US this year, so the news channels got a little excited. I'll admit even I had my nervous moments as the storm blew closer, and voluntary evacuation orders for our area went out. I double checked our 72 hour kits, and kept several storm watch internet windows open. Thankfully it came and went over our home as little more than a windy, stormy night. The next day skies were gray, the seas were a bit high, but the area was safe. We visited the beach and admired a view of unusually high, rough waves and cool strong winds. Staring out at the sea causes many to pause and ponder about life. In my gratitude this storm was mild, my thoughts of course turned to what I was most grateful for. There's a much read scripture in the Book of Mormon. It's in 3 Nephi 14, verses 24 and 25. They are words spoken by the Savior during his visit to the Americas, after his death and resurrection in Israel.

24 Therefore, whoso heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, who built his house upon a rock—
25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not, for it was founded upon a rock.

The "rock" of course represents the Savior and his gospel. My thoughts turned to what are protected in that "house upon a rock". Everything that is most precious to me is in my home. Thankfully they are also what I can bring with me should we need to evacuate- my family. By "house" the scripture isn't referring to a structure, but to our families, the most important thing we build, fortify, and love. Occasionally it takes a storm or even hurricane to remind us what is most precious. The rough rains and winds tear down worldly walls, and cause us to focus all our energy on protecting what is most dear. I'm grateful the strength our faith in the Savior and obedience to his laws brings to our family. In a way, I'm even grateful for hurricanes.

Here's a slideshow of family visits to the ocean, ending with our stop at the beach after Hurricane Ida. It may be difficult to see the difference in the photos, but the waves that day were very high for our usually mild, quiet beach on the gulf. We've seen days where the beachfront water is as smooth and clear as glass. Have that in your mind when you look at the rough waves in those later photos!

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