It seems each and every time we turn on the television, open a newspaper or hear a radio report there are headlines about a natural disaster in some part of our great country. In 2017, our state has been plagued by flooding. Many southern coastal states have seen devastating hurricanes that brought massive flooding and other damage, which will take years to recover from.
As we look at the frightening images we must remember how blessed we are. The devastation has destroyed homes and businesses; however, there is hope. In our country we know that in our times of need there is hope and help. Most other countries do not have federal or state emergency teams. We have the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the State Emergency Management Agency as well as many local groups and a number of nonprofit groups that offer goods and services to those who have been affected.
Despite the pain and heartache our fellow Americans are feeling in the wake of these disasters, there’s help. We are blessed to be in this country – the country many others turn to for help in their times of need. The Red Cross, Salvation Army and Convoy of Hope assistance is available to all of us following a tragedy.
Many people in other countries have had to physically dig with their hands to free family members and neighbors; we can call so many different agencies for help. We have insurance available to rebuild, hospitals and doctors to go to for help with injuries or illness as a result of tragedy. We are so lucky to live in this country, a country that offers help to other but rarely receives it in return.
We deal with all types of disasters, natural and man-made, but we pull together and are so very blessed to be a part of this great nation. It is in times of crisis that we are reminded what a great nation this is. Never forget how fortunate we are to be living in the United States, and more so to be living in the beautiful Ozarks.
As always, I appreciate it when groups from around Missouri and from our community back home come to visit me at the Capitol. If you would like to arrange a time to come and visit me in Jefferson City, or if you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-1882.