There have been extraordinary scenes of the highest possible aspects of human nature in action during and in the aftermath of the great storm on America’s east side, both from the emergency services and those who suffered and lost. The pioneer spirit of old was visible in so much and so many, and continues still to be evident as the clean-up continues.
Now, however, other tests are contributing to challenge thousands of people confronted by the realisation that there is a shortage of fuel, food and water; that the power and gas may continue to be off for several more days; that they cannot return to their homes – unharmed by the storm – for a month; they cannot get to work and so are losing wages; that they were not adequately insured for rebuilding and losses; and that they will be homeless for a long time.
In some crises, normality can return quickly and it becomes just a vivid memory and good story to those caught up in it, but for many of the Americans affected by Sandy it will take days, weeks, months and years, if ever, for the events of that night to be behind them. The reality of this is becoming apparent and it is at such a time, whether confronted with extreme discomfort or total loss, that character is tested. Already there are arguments and some violence, frustration and anger over long queues for essentials, lack of communications and convenience, and there will be more as the slow process of restoration continues into a cold winter. There will be despair too. By contrast, the acts of kindness are abundant, and the greatest strengths and highest qualities possible in man can and will be demonstrated as a result of the great storm.
Everything that happens, everything we do is about karma, and Sandy is forcing many in the US to sit a major karmic test as a result of her force. It is an unwanted but unavoidable opportunity to show strength or frailty, areas for learning and to grow from the experience. Heroes will come from this, and others will see, in hindsight, how they could have done better. In the end, however, it is all about doing your best, and that is what we see so much in this sad situation – millions of Americans doing their best, and teaching the rest of us so much.
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