As many prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, I’m asking you what’s your code.

 

What is it that unlocks within you that makes you the person you are today?

 

I recently visited one of my favorite chicken restaurants and they were playing Christmas music.

 

Christmas music is one of my favorite times of the year because it only happens for a short time.  Sure, we can listen to Christmas music all year if we want; however, it is a time when it sets or unlocks for me one of my codes.

 

I also realized this upcoming weekend within my faith the liturgical year will end this weekend.

 

The new liturgical year will start with Advent.

 

It’s a specific code within that helps me be me.

 

There is something special about Christmas music that unlocks different emotions that are hard to describe.

 

Each of us has our codes which help guide us throughout the year.

 

It doesn’t have to be tied to your faith, as one who also believes in adding value to others.

 

Every time I’m able to add value to another person, it unlocks those unwritten rules or principles that help me be accountable for my actions.

 

In the military, there were various codes, some spoken and some unspoken that I lived by each day.

 

One of the many conversations that I had while in the military was that once you walk out those gates and enter the Civilian world, there were different codes awaiting me.

 

Today, you and I can see how the COVID-19 Pandemic brought about various codes that have changed this world and how we operate in it.

 

We have also learned about the inception of Artificial Intelligence (AI).   AI has changed how we operate even further.

 

Interestingly enough, my codes which are embedded within me have not changed.

 

What about you?

 

What I’ve learned is that people will be people.

 

There is a quote that says, “People who switch up depending on who is around them need to stay far-far away from me.”

 

How consistent are you in who you are representing to others each day?

 

Another quote is “Some people will walk all over you with the shoes you bought them.”

 

This is why I don’t buy shoes for others.

 

These two quotes are examples of codes and lessons I’ve learned in cracking codes.

 

Some of us can’t see it coming until it’s too late.

 

Today, I challenge you to think about the specific codes that help you operate in this environment as you deal with others around you.

 

What do others see when they encounter you and how do their codes line up with yours?

 

I always think it’s interesting that there was such a thing as “Black Codes” during 1865–1866 that somehow in 2024, has found its way into our lives.

 

Sometimes overtly and sometimes covertly.

 

You may have a different opinion, however, it’s my opinion.  I know that when I travel outside my normal boundaries it’s the subtle reminder of my first quote “People who switch up depending on who is around them need to stay far-far away from me.”

 

Black Codes (1865) | Constitution Center

 

The late Jim Rohn says, “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

 

Therefore, I would rather spend my time with people who have similar codes that match the behaviors I want to be around.

 

I’ll close on a positive note and tell you that there is a Third Option.

Not the award-winning Marriage Program that has been helping couples since 1988.

 

I’m talking about something different.  The book by Miles McPherson.

 

The Third Option – Miles McPherson

 

Each of us has ingroups and outgroups which I learned from reading “The Third Option” years ago.

 

It has also helped me understand my specific codes.

 

Ingroups and Outgroups: How Social Identity Influences People – Effectiviology

 

Ingroup vs. Outgroup – What’s the Difference? | This vs. That

 

In ten days, we will celebrate Thanksgiving. How will your codes show up in adding value to others and what options are you contemplating this holiday season?

 

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/whats-your-code/

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

 

Organizing an event, whether for a corporate gathering, community function, or educational seminar, often requires the right mix of talent to ensure a memorable experience. One key element to elevate an event’s impact is hiring a professional public speaker who can engage and inspire your audience. Here’s why selecting public speakers near Alabama can be an excellent choice for your event and the factors to consider.

1. Local Expertise and Relevance

Hiring a public speaker from Alabama brings a unique advantage of local insights. Speakers familiar with the region can make connections to cultural, social, or economic aspects that resonate with your audience, creating a more relatable and impactful message. A speaker with local expertise can engage attendees with stories and references that feel relevant, making the experience both personal and memorable.

2. Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility

Opting for public speakers near Alabama also comes with logistical and financial benefits. Local speakers are often more affordable, as transportation and accommodation costs are minimized or even eliminated. This can make a significant difference if you’re organizing an event on a tight budget. Additionally, local speakers are more accessible in terms of scheduling flexibility and are less likely to face travel-related disruptions.

3. Community Connection and Networking Opportunities

Local speakers often have established networks within the community. By hiring someone from the Alabama area, you not only engage a skilled speaker but also have the opportunity to connect with their network of contacts, collaborators, and followers. This can enhance networking opportunities during and after your event, creating lasting connections and opening doors for future collaborations or partnerships.

4. Authenticity and Relatability

An Alabama-based speaker can bring an authentic voice to your event, speaking directly to the interests and concerns of local audiences. Whether your event attendees are corporate professionals, students, or community members, a public speaker who understands the local culture and community dynamics will be more relatable. This relatability enhances the overall impact of the presentation, leaving your audience with a positive impression and takeaways that resonate.

5. Supporting Local Talent and the Economy

Hiring local public speakers also supports the Alabama community, encouraging the growth of local talent. By choosing a professional speaker from the area, you contribute to the local economy and foster the development of homegrown expertise. Supporting local professionals also reflects positively on your organization, as it demonstrates a commitment to investing in the community.

6. Adaptability to Regional Preferences

A speaker familiar with Alabama's preferences and expectations can tailor their message to match the specific needs and dynamics of local audiences. They understand the language, the values, and the tone that resonate within the region. This adaptability ensures that the message is well-received, increasing engagement and creating an impactful experience for your attendees.

7. Customizable Content and Presentation Style

Public speakers near Alabama are more likely to offer customization in their content and presentation style, as they can meet with you or your team in person to discuss the specific goals of your event. Local speakers are often willing to collaborate closely, allowing you to shape their presentation to align with the event’s theme and your organization’s objectives. This level of collaboration ensures a more tailored experience that can effectively address the unique needs of your audience.

8. Building Long-Term Relationships with Local Experts

Hiring public speakers from nearby areas provides an opportunity to build long-term relationships. These connections can be valuable for future events, as you’ll have a reliable roster of talented professionals who are familiar with your brand and audience. Establishing these relationships also allows for more seamless planning for future occasions, as local speakers are likely to be more available for follow-up engagements or community collaborations.

9. Immediate Availability for Follow-Up Sessions or Workshops

If your event includes multiple sessions, workshops, or an ongoing training program, hiring a local speaker offers the advantage of immediate availability. Public speakers near Alabama can more easily attend additional sessions or provide one-on-one consultations, creating a more comprehensive and supportive experience for your participants. This flexibility can be particularly useful for corporate training events, where continuous engagement can lead to better outcomes.

10. Familiarity with Alabama’s Corporate and Social Landscape

For corporate events specifically, public speakers familiar with Alabama’s business environment can offer tailored insights into the region's corporate landscape. This knowledge can be invaluable for topics related to industry trends, business leadership, or community engagement, providing an added layer of depth and relevance for attendees.

 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Today, let’s talk about “Grief and Bereavement” which is something that is overlooked in many ways.

 

The Best Teacher in Life is Experience. ~ Lebron James

 

Those words may not mean anything to you or sound hollow unless you have had the experience of going through what is called grief or bereavement.

 

Grief and bereavement are related to loss, but they are not the same thing.

 

Introduction to Grief & Bereavement.pdf

 

Grief is an emotional reaction to loss.

 

Bereavement is the objective fact that someone we care about has passed away.

 

With that said, when was the last time you assisted someone going through grief or bereavement?

 

I believe it’s important to understand how to provide the proper level of empathy, not sympathy unless you have walked in that person’s shoes.

 

I know from personal experience that preparing for someone’s death, especially any family member is a tough task knowing they are enrolled in Hospice.

 

The quote by Lebron James “The Best Teacher in Life is Experience” has allowed me to see various perspectives related to grief and bereavement.

 

What about you?

 

Every day we don’t necessarily wake up and think about the mortality rate of deaths that occur in this world.

 

Not to mention the families that are going through both grief and bereavement on different levels.

 

How Many People Die Each Day in 2024?

 

7 Stages of Grief: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Loss | A Simplified Psychology Guide

 

Both grief and bereavement have no exact date when they will end.

 

How long does grief last? | Bereavement Support | Sue Ryder

 

It is important to note that finding the proper words for a grieving family is important.

 

5 Things Not to Say When Someone Dies | Psychology Today

 

“Compassion in Words: What to Say to Someone Who Is Grieving” – The Hope Kit

 

A few months ago, I recalled receiving a text message that was followed up by a phone call when I received notification from one of my former Soldiers who was grieving the loss of his only son, his name’s sake.

 

His son was shot and killed in the Dorm room which was a shocking or an egregious mistake.

 

Today we celebrate the anniversary of the deaths of those we have lost which were an important season in our lives.

 

Every old thing was once new.

 

Ecclesiastes 1:9 “What has been what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.”

 

I have learned that mourning is the natural process you go through to accept a major loss; however, I also know each of us mourns differently.

 

Today, I challenge you to take some time and reflect on those in your life who played an important part in the seasons they were with you.

 

I have four quotes each having a different meaning for you to discern today.

“Everyone must leave something behind when he dies, my grandfather said. A child or a book or a painting or a house or a wall built, or a pair of shoes made. Or a garden planted. Something your hand touches some way so your soul has somewhere to go when you die, and when people look at that tree or that flower you planted, you’re there.” ~ Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451

 

“We do not have to rely on memories to recapture the spirit of those we have loved and lost – they live within our souls in some perfect sanctuary which even death cannot destroy.” ~ Nan Witcomb

 

“Look closely and you will see almost everyone carrying bags of cement on their shoulders. That’s why it takes courage to get out of bed in the morning and climb into the day.” ~ Edward Hirsch

 

“And when great souls die, after a period peace blooms, slowly and always irregularly. Spaces fill with a kind of soothing electric vibration. Our senses, restored, never to be the same, whisper to us. They existed.  We can be. Be and be better. For they existed.” ~ Maya Angelou

 

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/grief-and-bereavement/

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

In a recent blog, I wrote about “Tolerance.”  Today it’s about “Acceptance.”

 

When I think about acceptance, there is a sense of tolerance also that accompanies my thoughts as well.  However, I’d ask you to think about acceptance from a holistic point of view that you have chosen to accept in most cases these days.

 

Today, you and I can’t go anywhere without seeing someone using canes or walkers to get around.

 

However, have you thought about or often wondered are they accepting the fact that they need these devices?

 

When Do You Know It is Time for a Walking Cane? 8 Signs You Need to Use a Cane – Seniors Mobility | Best Exercises & Mobility Devices for Seniors

 

Three years ago, when my total hip replacement on my left hip, I didn’t need so much a walker; however, I required a cane to get mobilized and moving to place weight on my hip.

 

This was an acceptance that in life we are all getting older, and it takes time to recover.

 

Furthermore, many these days have limiting beliefs.

 

We are all individuals who may accept a food order as being wrong, while others may send it back into the kitchen or ask the server to fix it.

 

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to watch my nephew and his mother in need of a spoon for their soup.  After five minutes in a very nice restaurant and seeing no spoons arrive at the table I got up and found a server and asked for them.

 

It appeared to me they were satisfied or accepted waiting as their food began to cool down.  There are some things that I wasn’t willing to accept, especially watching them wonder if they were going to get service.

 

In addition, there are various things we tend to accept today that can cause us sometimes emotional and mental sabotage because we are not willing to let things go.

 

Each of us has our own stories tied to acceptance and why we accept or reject specific things in life.

 

Some things as small and trivial such as the thickness or thinness of the first slice of deli meat when you go to your favorite grocery store.

 

I even found out some would rather have thick bacon than regular-cut bacon. However, they accept it when in public.

 

We also hear about people in bad relationships who choose to accept it because of their children, or because of other various reasons.

 

I think it’s interesting how some people accepted what happened on January 6, 2021, (The Insurrection at the White House) and yet today have not fully realized the impact on this country.

 

Because I believe that I understand the Constitution of the United States, I accept as a citizen, and I’m grateful for the privileges that I have as an American.

 

I’ve taken oaths and was sworn in to accept the Constitution of the United States both as a Soldier and a Department of Defense Civilian.

 

However, sometimes “We the People” does not apply to all.

 

What does the phrase “We The People” mean? – US Constitution – LAWS.com

 

I’m also aware that before 1786 when the Constitution of the United States was established, other states had their constitutions.

 

7.3 Debating Democracy – U.S. History | OpenStax

 

Early voting has already started.  As you and I prepare to vote, we must accept the outcome of the results on November 5, 2024, as who will run this country for the next four years.

 

Today, I challenge you to vote, listen to your inner voice and understand how much you can accept regardless of the outcome.

 

“Happiness can only exist in acceptance.”  ~ George Orwell

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/acceptance/

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

If I were to ask a question of how you navigate change your answer would be on many levels of thought.

 

Your answer would partly derive from your ability in being adaptable.

Adaptable Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

 

Each of us must be able to adjust to new conditions as I’m reminded of the book “Who Moved My Cheese? An Amazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and in Your Life” by Dr. Spencer Johnson.

 

There are four characters in Who Moved My Cheese.  Sniff and Scurry (The Mice) and Hem and Haw, (The Little people) who navigated the maze all had characteristics readily seen in people.

 

“Sometimes we may act like Sniff-Who sniffs out change early; or Scurry, who scurries into action; or Hem who denies and resists change as he fears it will lead to something worse; or Haw who learns to adapt in time when he sees changing can lead to something better.”

 

Dr. Spencer Johnson, Who Moved My Cheese? An Amazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and in Your Life was published on September 7, 1998.

 

For a book to have been written in 1998, Dr. Spencer Johnson’s business box is still valid today.

 

Although it’s packed with various quotes my favorite is “If you do not change, you can become extinct.”

 

If you have not read this book, you won’t regret reading it.

 

Today, with so many beliefs and personality behaviors getting someone to change or go against their core personality traits to find “new cheese” is challenging yet we must do what is required.

 

The one constant thing in our lives is change.

 

“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or the present are certain to miss the future” – John F Kennedy.

 

Adapting to Change: Why It Matters and How to Do It – LifeHack

 

Have you ever thought about those unable to adapt to new conditions?

 

I will let you know they are not in business anymore. (Companies such as Polaroid, Blockbuster, and Toys R Us are good examples that didn’t change fast enough.  

 

10 Companies That Failed To Innovate, Resulting In Business Failure (collectivecampus.io)

 

Have you ever heard of Moore’s Law?

 

Moore’s Law and not to be confused with Murphy’s Law is about change. We can thank Gordon Moore (dating back to the 1960s) when Intel made its first Central Processing Unit (CPU) with 2,300 transistors.  Today the average CPU has a few billion transistors with speeds over 4 GHZ.

 

The bottom line is the phone in our pocket has many times more computing power than the computers that put the man on the moon.

 

Your Mobile Phone vs. Apollo 11’s Guidance Computer | RealClearScience

 

Many of us are experiencing the impacts of Moore’s Law and don’t even know it.

 

What is Moore’s Law? – Our World in Data

 

However, embracing change is not all about technology, it’s much bigger.

 

It’s about understanding our grandchildren; becoming an empty nester, getting old, people dying, friends not being available, moving to a new location, having a change of life, women experiencing menopause, men experiencing erectile dysfunction, decisions in life; finding the next chapter of your life, retirement, leadership changing out in various organizations, authority, politics, dealing with Alzheimer and Dementia, an our bodies changing.

 

The list above, I created all happened in less than two minutes, which means I’ve only scratched the surface as it relates to embracing change.

 

As someone big on emotional intelligence, I also know we must all be more resilient and adapt as part of our well-being.

 

Embracing Change: A Guide to Personal Growth and Well-being – Leaders that grow

 

On this Monday, I can’t help but stop and think about the recent tragedies with Hurricane Helene and all those who have been without power for over a week.

 

Hurricane Helene: Over 220 dead as some communities struggle to get basic supplies (nbcnews.com)

 

We must now embrace change also with the war between Israel and Iran and the effects of rising oil prices and the Mideast tensions.

 

Whether we want to accept it or not, we must embrace change as Israel launches new rocket strikes on Beirut and Hezbollah.  I’m sure over the next few weeks or months we must also embrace change in our economy even though the war is outside of the United States.

 

Many of us last year saw the rising prices of groceries, the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, and the recent port strike after some 45,000 dockworkers at East and Gulf Coast ports went on strike.

 

Although the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) suspended its three-day strike until January 15, 2025, bringing workers back on the job, which is critical for the economy, everyone must embrace change.

 

Many of us remember the 2020 Pandemic and the scarcity syndrome or scarcity mindset with toilet paper syndrome.

 

Port strike: Why were people panic buying toilet paper again? (usatoday.com)

 

Sometimes we can’t even see it coming.  Things we take for granted that are available every day are no longer there.

 

Embracing change is everywhere, even in our backyards.

 

“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” ~André Gide (French author and winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1947.)

 

I believe you will enjoy watching “Embracing Change” featuring Marco Marsans during his TEDxDeerfield talk on YouTube.

 

Bing Videos

 

Today, with so much change in our lives, I challenge you to take a moment and reflect on your life and how you have adapted and embraced change over the last year.

 

I agree with Nick Jonas “Life happens. Adapt. Embrace change and make the most of everything that comes your way.”

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/embracing-change/

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

In today's competitive corporate world, the ability to inspire, lead, and motivate teams has never been more crucial. Whether you're looking to boost team performance, foster innovation, or ignite a cultural shift within your organization, the right leadership or success speaker can make all the difference. Public speaking has evolved beyond mere presentations; it’s now about delivering an impactful message that can resonate with an audience, create lasting change, and inspire action. For companies or organizations looking to invest in their team’s growth, finding the best leadership or success speakers is essential.

 

.

 

But why is having a leadership or success speaker such a powerful tool for your business? The truth is, the right speaker doesn’t just talk; they inspire. They share experiences, lessons, and strategies that can transform the way your team thinks and behaves. More than just motivating your team for a day, their insights often lead to long-term personal and professional growth. Let’s explore why you need the top leadership/success speakers and how they can positively influence your organization.

 

Why Your Team Needs a Leadership/Success Speaker

 

A Fresh Perspective
No matter how skilled a leader may be, sometimes an external viewpoint can bring clarity and fresh ideas. Leadership and success speakers often come from diverse industries and backgrounds, offering insights that you and your team may not have considered. These professionals bring forward-thinking strategies and innovative approaches to everyday challenges, which can be applied directly to your organization.

Inspiration and Motivation
One of the primary reasons organizations hire top leadership or success speakers is to inspire their workforce. Whether it's pushing your team through a tough project or reigniting their passion for their work, the right speaker knows how to tap into the emotional and intellectual potential of their audience. They don’t just share success stories; they make your team believe that they can achieve their own.

Tailored Strategies for Success
Each organization faces unique challenges. Top leadership and success speakers don’t deliver cookie-cutter speeches; they tailor their content to address your specific needs. This customization allows the speaker to connect with your team on a personal level, addressing their pain points, goals, and potential. The strategies they share are practical, actionable, and relevant to your industry.

Boosting Team Morale
A motivated team is a productive team. When morale is low, performance often follows. Leadership speakers specialize in lifting spirits, energizing teams, and fostering a sense of unity and purpose. They bring stories of overcoming adversity, managing change, and achieving success against all odds. These powerful narratives leave a lasting impression, boosting morale and encouraging your employees to strive for greatness.

Empowering Leadership at All Levels
Leadership isn't just for managers and executives. Every employee has the potential to lead in their own role, whether through initiative, creativity, or influence. The best leadership/success speakers empower individuals at all levels of your organization to take ownership of their work and their growth. When every employee feels like a leader, your company becomes stronger and more agile.

 

 

How to Choose the Right Leadership/Success Speaker for Your Team

 

Choosing the best leadership/success speakers requires careful consideration. It’s not just about finding a well-known name; it’s about finding a speaker who aligns with your organization’s values and goals. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:

 

Consider the Speaker’s Background
Look for speakers with a track record of success, not just in speaking but in leading and achieving in their own fields. Whether they’ve led successful businesses, coached top performers, or transformed industries, their personal experience will lend credibility to their message.

Understand Their Speaking Style
Different speakers resonate with different audiences. Some are motivational, using humor and storytelling to engage their listeners, while others focus on practical, actionable advice. Understand your team’s needs and preferences to choose a speaker whose style will be most impactful.

Tailoring to Your Industry
While the principles of leadership and success often transcend industries, it’s helpful to choose a speaker who understands the specific challenges and opportunities within your field. They will be able to provide more relevant insights and examples that your team can immediately relate to and apply.

Engagement and Interaction
The best leadership/success speakers don’t just talk at your team; they engage with them. Look for speakers who can facilitate workshops, Q&A sessions, or interactive activities that encourage participation and reflection. This engagement helps solidify the lessons being taught and ensures they have a lasting impact on your team.

 

Why Our Leadership/Success Speakers Stand Out

 

At our company, we pride ourselves on offering the best leadership/success speakers to meet your organization’s needs. We understand that each team is unique, which is why our speakers take the time to understand your goals and challenges before crafting a tailored presentation. Whether you're looking for a motivational speaker to kickstart a new initiative or an expert in leadership development to guide your team through organizational change, we have the right speaker for you.

 

Our speakers bring a wealth of knowledge from various industries, ensuring that their insights are relevant, actionable, and inspiring. With a focus on real-world success stories and proven strategies, our leadership/success speakers provide the tools and motivation your team needs to reach new heights. From CEOs who’ve built billion-dollar companies to thought leaders in innovation and resilience, we connect you with the voices that can truly make a difference.

 

Conclusion

Investing in the right leadership or success speaker can be one of the most impactful decisions for your organization. They can inspire, motivate, and equip your team with the tools they need to succeed. If you're looking for the best leadership/success speakers to transform your organization, now is the time to act. By providing your team with the guidance and insights from top-tier speakers, you’re not only investing in their individual growth but also in the long-term success of your company.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

When each of us hears the word aftermath we may not truly understand the origination of its meaning or where it came from only that it does not mean something good.

Aftermath Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

 

When I hear the word aftermath I immediately think of 9-11; a tsunami; an earthquake, however today it is the recent Hurricane named Helene.

Hurricane Helene’s destructive path left devastation and damage to the lives of many.

 

I know the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is overwhelmed by the amount of damage by Hurricane Helene.

FEMA administrator: “I don’t know that anybody could be fully prepared for the amount of flooding” from Helene in North Carolina – CBS News

 

The cover picture is from the Washington Post showing a picture of a Tesla that exploded when it took on salt water from Hurricane Helene.  It sits in a parking lot in the Pass-A-Grille community of St. Pete Beach, Fla. on Saturday.

 

Photos of Hurricane Helene aftermath as the scope of damage emerges (msn.com)

Today, after seeing the storms pass, I thought about all the people caught in the aftermath affected by floodwaters after Hurricane Helene passed through them.

 

Knowing that Hurricane Helene hit close to home where I have family and friends, it was a weekend of prayer.  Specifically, having lived in Augusta, GA for over 18 years before moving to Alabama.  I found out many had been without electricity and water for over 48 hours.

 

“More than 220,000 Augustans are without power after Hurricane Helene barreled through the area Friday morning.

 

Hurricane Helene live blog: Power restoration date for Augusta area released (augustachronicle.com)

I still remember the devastation of the last major storm in Augusta in 2014; it’s amazing that ten years ago such a thing would happen again.  Except this time, a different season that still affected schools and businesses closing with trees and power lines and roads impassable.

 

Today in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, it’s not ice, but wind and rain which was too much to handle.

 

Ice Storm of February 2014 – 100 Years, 100 Stories (100years100stories.com)

There is always a sense that it won’t happen to me until it does, and we feel the effects.

 

Helene live updates: Storm kills at least 89 as floods, massive power outages devastate Southeast (nbcnews.com)

The word empathy came to my mind many times over the weekend, as I received various updates from friends and through the Church.

 

I was aware that the GA Knights of Columbus State Council donated a pallet of bottled water to distribute to those in need and knowing those in need appreciated the bottled water.

Although we were projected to receive 3.5 inches of rain, all weekend rain was on and off in my local area.

 

Notwithstanding hurricane season doesn’t officially end until the end of November, so you and I must always be prepared for the unexpected to happen.

When does hurricane season end? Tropical activity could continue past ‘end date’ (yahoo.com)

 

While I’m not keeping score; Hurricane Helene was the fourth hurricane to hit the Gulf Coast this year. With family on the Gulf Coast, there is no escaping the weather as I thought about the other three previous storms this year (Beryl, Debby, Francine).

 

Sometimes each of us must refocus our energy on what’s important.

 

As for me, I quickly realized that the company responsible for removing our overflowing recycled trash cans; still sitting on the curb out since Friday, September 20, 2024, is not important.

 

Especially when I hear about families having to throw away food from their refrigerators that has spoiled due to a lack of electricity; or those that have no running water or electricity.

There is no doubt that the aftermath of Hurricane Helene is being felt in various areas, not only in the Southeast.

 

Helene live updates: Storm kills at least 89 as floods, massive power outages devastate Southeast (nbcnews.com)

If you have Cell Phone Service, Power, Water, and Electricity, and are Safe count your blessings. I know many who were without these and luckily had a car to charge their phones with enough gas in their autos.

 

On this Monday, I challenge you to check on those affected by the storm and let them know you care.

 

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/the-aftermath/

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•