Tornado

Feelings of hopelessness engulf us in a center closet. We know the warnings of an eminent tornado. My family looks to me in a search for courage and I try to deliver by concealing my fears. I offer assurances consoling words, comforting hugs, and silent prayers. I know I am helpless as we await natures wrath and then it happens - we all gasp. The house shakes, the dogs cling and fearfully squeal. The children cry. ..and then – silence, just like that. It’s all over. We survived! Caring nothing about our losses we are just grateful to be alive.