Life is So Fragile

One of the key concepts of the Gamblers Anonymous program is living your life one day at a time. I have made many a mention to this concept and today is no different. The poor (when I say poor I mean unfortunate) people in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama that were devastated by Hurricane Katrina have had their lives turned upside down in one day. Last week I am sure things were going along fine and then they received the hurricane warnings. I have not lived in this part of the country but I would imagine hurricane preparedness comes with the territory. However; no one could have possibly expected the devastation that has been caused by this horrible hurricane.

One of the nicest people I have met in the last six months lives in Slidell, Louisiana. She was told to evacuate on Saturday. Thank goodness she packed up her family and went west to Texas. I don't know if most of you realize Slidell took a direct hit from Hurricane Katrina and there is unprecedented devastation in this area. This wonderful lady was told not to return home until next Monday. The roads are not passable and it is just dangerous to go back home. She must wait another week until she sees her house. She is expecting the worst based on initial reports. My prayers and thoughts are for her and her family. Thank God no one in her family was injured because they were smart enough to heed the evacuation request. They took very little belongings and everything they have is in their house. Look at what can happen in only one day this is why it is so critical to live one day at a time.

When they get back to their home there maybe a rebuilding process and this process will take time. This may seem like an overwhelming task but it will be accomplished one day at time. The perseverance of the human soul is extraordinary. People can do anything they put their minds to and make life better. I know this wonderful lady and her family will be fine because they have each other. This is what matters most; not making a bet a game or going to the casino; family is so very important. Things will work out for the best.

Life is so precious and so many times in the past I have taken it for granted. There are so many insignificant things I have held on to and the only significant things are the health and well being of my family. I thank God each and every day for their existence.