Community..

My family and I, and our mutual friend Tim were invited by our close friend George to come over to his home for a cookout three Sunday's ago. Goeorge told us the cookout was in appreciation for all the help on his home that sustained damage from a hurricane windstorm that passed thru roughly a month ago. At that time, large limbs from George's neighbors home had broke from the hurricane force winds and fell thru his roof in multiple spots. Over the course of the two weeks following this incident, Tim and I had come over to help repair the damage and put a new roof to George's two story home.

It was a beautiful September fall day with sunny clear blue skies and temperatures in the high 70's. When my family and I arrived, we noted another family had arrived at the same time and were walking toward the back of George's home. We followed suit. Behind George & Jackie's backyard is an alley bordered on the otherside by a pasture for horses. The alley was blocked by George's truck and multiple chairs & tables were setup in the alley and occupied by several people. To my surprise we were part of a community cookout that George & Jackie decided to have to show their appreciation to everyone who contributed to cleaning up the storm damage and helping with repairs on their home. Including me & my family, there were probably 25-30 folks there. I milled about and introduced myself and enjoyed several conversations with their neighbors, former co-worker, and friends.

What struck a cord with me about the whole event was seeing how many folks were there that lended a hand in a time of need. George and his family were blessed with caring neighbors & friends that jumped in with both feet and helped when the need arose. This was refreshing to see, especially in this day and age when folks are so busy with all the cares of the world bearing down on them and getting caught up in the daily struggle. It's good to see neighbors & friends pull together and help out. On the other hand, who can turn down a cookout, especially when ribeye steaks are on the menu ;)