To My Storm Savaged Friends . . .

November 2, 2012

Sometimes, It’s Not About Lingerie. . . .

I lived in Long Beach, New York for 30 years; first on the water, later one block away. There were many storms, hurricanes, nor’easters, blizzards. There were many evacuations; some we heeded, some not. It never mattered. Damage was minimal: a little water in the basement, beach erosion, lots of complaints; the usual expected brouhaha when one chooses to live near the ocean.

I grew up going to the beach. It’s a special way of life, a certain energy, a certain vibe, a certain pathway to peace. There is no peace in Long Beach this week. Sandy has destroyed it: homes burned, cars and boats flung afar, water drowning houses to the second and sometimes third floors, sand knee deep everywhere, on main roads, in houses, vehicles buried along with dreams. Devastation and despair prevail.

The ocean is an immortal goddess. She soothes, creates, rages and destroys. I have, despite my deep love for her, always been slightly wary of her power. One never really knows what lies beneath or how she will choose to present herself. She is always in command. Those of us who live by her side understand that we must respect her nature to survive.

My neighbors and friends, in Long Beach will heal. We learned that strength from living by the sea. I wish them hope. I wish better days for everyone, everywhere who suffered Sandy’s wrath.