When I learned about a woman in Miami who delivered her own baby during Hurricane Irma, I knew Floridians would endure.
While first responders could not physically reach the woman in labor due to the torrential winds and rain, a doctor, a dispatcher, and paramedics coached her through her own labor via a conference call.
That’s resilience – the ability to recover from adversity, and persevere. And it’s their own resilience that will galvanize Floridians.
When Superstorm Sandy hit New Jersey in 2013, the downgraded Category 1 hurricane left my town without power for a week. And that felt apocalyptic. But it pales in comparison to the catastrophic devastation that the ferocious Category 4 Hurricane Irma just inflicted on Florida.
And yet, in the weeks and months ahead, we will bear witness to remarkable determination, tenacity, and grit.
The people of Florida will rise like the Phoenix from the ashes.
And when they do, they will inspire and embolden the rest of us to triumph over whatever challenge or misfortune we may face.
The phrase “Jersey Strong” became the mantra that reminded New Jerseyans daily that they are stronger than the storm.
Floridians will need their own battle cry, and “Florida Resilient” seems appropriate already! |