Tuesday, May 21, 2013

The Oklahoma Standard

I started this blog today, since my life has changed so drastically since I last blogged here: http://techygeekgirlknits.blogspot.com/.  Truth be told, my life changed pretty drastically since yesterday morning too. 

A tornado hit Moore, Ok, which is about 5 miles north of where we live. We were not hurt. Our house is fine.  We know people who have property damage, but have not lost loved ones.   We didn't even get rain.  We were fortunate.  We know the area that was hit well and it's hard to see the pictures.

At latest count, there were 7 children lost yesterday.  In a school, in their tornado shelter.  I cried.  Very hard.  And hugged my 7 month old son tight, who was sent home early, when it was clear skies out because someone who worked at the National Weather Center (down the street from us), warned the director and she made that difficult call.   He was safe here with my husband, who could not have gotten home because the destruction was between our house and OKC, where my husband works.   I was not even in town yesterday and followed the entire story on Facebook & the news from the iPhone. 

I told my mom last night how much I love being in Oklahoma. (I grew up in St. Louis) They are a hardy people.  Most of us are not from here, but get here and stay (it's a relatively new state too - only since 1907!).  It's the most kind and giving community I have ever been in.  When there is a tragedy, everyone runs in to help and stays.  It's pretty amazing to me and I've bought into it myself - it's a way of life.

After the OKC Bombing in 1995, they called it the Oklahoma Standard.  It's the "unwritten" code of conduct for the people of this great state.  To give and to support and to love our neighbors.  And it doesn't stop when the news crews leave or when the clean-up is started.  It goes on for ever.  By last night I had already gotten emails for drives for baby items, dog items, clothes, water, etc.   It's in motion and will be going for awhile.   That's what we do!

It makes me proud to be here and to be a part of this great state and community. 
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