As I’ve reflected more and more on my experiences here, it is hard for me to sit idly and not reflect on the current situation in Iowa. I saw a figure today that about 55 of the 99 counties are currently in a state of emergency by Gov. Chet Culver, and that speaks loudly to the devastation occuring right now. I’ve seen many of many of pictures, and have read the news, but I’m sure nothing compares to those experiencing it right now in the state of Iowa.

Just today, one of my friends who lives in Cedar Rapids is currently experiencing the devastation of the flood. Her family has already evacuated the town, and her car was vandalized during these periods of mass flooding. Now, my car was hit by a trampolene and had to be repaired due to the back window getting blown out, but her’s was vandalized on purpose. It really brings a sense of what Katrina was like close to your home. Not to compare too much, because they are different in many ways. However, this is the most flooding Iowa has ever had by about 3 times. My heart really goes out to you back in Cedar Falls, Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, and beyond. After going through a class like the Holocaust, the last thing I want is to come back home to devastation and destruction. However, we do not control the weather, nor do we control when it happens, we only control how we handle it.

That is why, I want to really help when I get back. I mean it. Please let me know anyone who has information on how to get involved. This is going to start once I return because this is my home. I might need a day or two for re-orientation into the Country due to jet lag and cultural factors, but I really feel I owe my family and community atleast something.

In the grander scheme of things, I hope this will bring people closer together, families closer, God close to those who don’t know him, and neighbors helping neighbors in complete symbiosis. It’s not every day your home town and state gets in the national news, unfortunately, it’s not in the way you want it. Nonetheless, we carry on.

PS – Croatia beat Germany last night 2-0, huge upset, and Poland tied Austria 1-1 (with a PK in the 92+ minute which I really didn’t agree with.

Tonight is the symphony and to celebrate Chris’s Birthday thereafter.

Eventhough I am here in Poland, my heart is truely in Iowa.

God bless you all, and godspeed for answers to all your anxieties. You are all in my prayers and thoughts.