In Focus
New year, same me.
Last year was something else. Container ships running into the Francis Scott Key bridge in Maryland, solar eclipse, Israel vs. Gaza, Ukraine vs. Russia still going, Trump assassination attempt, our own governor running for vice president of the U.S., Trump winning the presidential election, Hurricane Helene wiping out entire towns in North Carolina and battering Florida, the Olympics, and 83 school shootings. Another typical year in this warped landscape we call reality.
And this year is starting on fire, at least in the western U.S., with freezing temps and blizzards in the eastern half of the U.S. There are three massive fires in California right now, the largest being the Palisades Fires, which is a reoccurring theme in the drought-stricken state and it is fed by the Santa Anna winds (a hot, dry wind). The causes aren’t known, but the Santa Annas do bring out the pyromaniacs for some unknown reason.
I’m seeing places I grew up with once again disappear, such as the scenic drive on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) through Malibu. The homes are just gone. Malibu is the worst; if it’s not mudslides or hurricanes, fires destroy homes. This isn’t something I would wish on anyone, regardless of their millionaire status. Some say, “They can afford to rebuild it.” Sure, maybe they can, but memories cannot be replaced.
The same situation recently happened to some friends of mine who just lost their entire home—who are mourning the loss of their home and precious memories, to the headache of getting back on their feet while navigating insurance and other paperwork, purchasing essentials, and having to pay bills for a home that no longer exists, all while waking up in a place that’s not their own. That is a lot of stress!
They have received overwhelming support. Thankfully, they had family and friends willing to take in the donations. I’ve learned a few things from this experience. Size matters. Clothing that comes in that will not fit anyone will go right back out. When working with limited space for storage, you are not going to pack something that doesn’t fit. There is a difference between donating and dropping off garbage or mouse or bug-infested bags of items. Regardless of the situation, nobody is going to wear heavily stained or torn clothing, and please, no used stained underwear; that’s just gross, no matter how you look at it. Please be sure your items are clean and in good usable shape. When in doubt, cash or gift cards fit everyone perfectly.
Personally, I am extremely grateful to the community, and perfect strangers, for stepping up and helping this family. Your generous donations were extremely appreciated. Your kindness and compassion will not be forgotten.
