Love on Long Island, NY

Greetings from Ithaca! For the past two weeks, i was blessed to be part of a group of volunteers who gave their time and talents to help in shelters on Long Island. While the hours were long and the frustrations sometimes evident, the overall sense of the adventure was one of love and respect for community. We met so many people affected by Hurricane Sandy who wanted to help their neighbors and were truly appreciative  of the efforts of others...it was very humbling and inspiring. It saddens me to think it takes a disaster of this magnitude to bring people back together, but it is a joyous thing to see people indeed coming together to help one another. I hope that in the days and weeks ahead through the recovery process folks continue to show kindness and gentleness to each other. We can make the world a brighter place, one smile or cup of coffee at a time. I will not forget the people i met, and wish them peace and comfort through the tough days ahead. I look forward to reuniting under more favorable conditions and celebrating their new outlook. I urge each of you to do what you can with what you have where you are. If you are able to give of your time, money or supplies, there are people near you who could benefit. Don't wait for a disaster to show you care.