Last week our little Florida church took a trip to support disaster relief efforts in Cordova Alabama, and all of the above describe Cordova resident reaction to calamity from the skies April 27. We were later than larger disaster relief teams, but were still able to clear away a good quantity of debris. Accompanied by the the sonorous tones of twin Husqvarna chainsaws, our team of 16 cleared debris from 6 homes, and for those residents our tiny effort was the one that mattered most.
In tragedies like this one rightfully mourns lives lost, property damaged and financial hardship. Where is life's music in the darkness? When does the dirge turn to dancing?
It's worth remembering that some of history's greatest artists were driven by personal tragedy, and often find their most powerful effect in the tragedy of others. Shakespeare, in particular, moves the soul in unparalleled ways on the back of tragedy. Hopefully the tornadoes in Alabama, Missouri and Texas fade into memory for most and inspire others to great heights. There is mourning to be done, and wounds to heal, and there is music in it all.
This week's work is an aria from Henry Purcell's Dido and Aneas entitled "When I am laid in earth". As you listen, memorialize great losses, and mourn with the singer. May it inspire you to greatness today.
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