It's been heartbreaking to see the damage caused by 2 days of record setting rain, yet at the same time, beyond heartwarming to watch the city of Nashville and it's people come together to bring order out of the chaos. Our Downtown Riverfront, Opryland Hotel, Grand Old Opry, Oprymills Mall, Schermerhorn Symphony, Titans Stadium, Countless homes and business all took on water and damage beyond belief.
Our home stayed high and dry during the weekend of May 1, 2010. We were so fortunate. Yet so many lost their homes and belongings to the flood waters. Nathan's grandfather was among the unlucky. We have been able to help clean up, salvage and tear down at their townhome in Bellevue, Tennessee. Here are a few pictures of our experience. Just one home, on one street, in one neighborhood, in a town where many homes, on many streets, in many neighborhoods have been destroyed.
This picture is taken standing on their front porch, facing towards the "creek" that quickly rose and infiltrated their home.
From the front door to the bank is about 20 feet, the bank to the bottom of the creek is about 15 feet. Today there was not even a trickle of water down there. I can't imagine how much water was rushing through that day!
The force of the water uprooted this tree in their side yard and forced numerous lawn chairs and garden items from neighbors into it's branches.
The front door. The water line is about a foot and a half above the doorknob. 6' above ground!
Close up of the water line on front door.
Water soaked 7 steps up. Complete strangers came on Thursday and ripped out all of their flooring. Caring community angels.
More community angels ripped out all the dry (well, not so dry) wall and trim on Friday and Saturday. We helped sweep up and haul debris on Saturday. I think this shot shows their unit clear through to the neighbors! Bye, bye firewalls.
Through it all, people are maintaining a sense of humor and spirit of joy in the sorrow.
Piles upon piles upon piles of debris waiting to be hauled off. I can't describe the beehive of activity in this neighborhood. People coming in round the clock, asking if you need help, asking if you need water, asking if you need snacks, asking if you're ok, asking if you want a smoked bologna sandwich. It's awesome. Church groups passing out water, church groups wielding crowbars, church groups with mops, squeegees and brooms. God is working in this place.
Lives out on the lawns, waiting for the dumpster.
I still can't find the words to express feelings about what I've seen this past week in Nashville. It's just so unbelievable. But I'm proud to call Tennessee, the Volunteer state, my home. We have lived up to our name. If you want to volunteer, check out Hands on Nashville to find a way to plug in and help. If you can give, visit Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee to donate to flood relief.
Galatians 6:10
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
