How We Are Meant To Be

This past week has seen amazing acts of giving and helping as horrific bushfires have ripped through Victoria. A deadly combination of ongoing drought and furnace-like heat and winds gave rise to the worst bushfire tragedy in Australian history. The sadness of lives lost and homes destroyed cannot be communicated.

Andrew and I are thankful that no friends or family have lost life or property. We continue to pray for rain, for the elimination of these fires, and that not another life would be lost or home destroyed.

The blazes are ongoing, but are being controlled. Firebreaks are being strengthened; the smell of back-burning drifts through occasionally. Everyone is thankful for the cooler weather which aids in control. Help has poured in from around the country and around the world. Real, practical help. People offering their homes, food, money, time, and resources.

When I first moved to Australia, I felt that if I was walking down the street and needed help, all I would need to do would be to knock on someone’s door. This week has proven that, a million times over. Australians have an amazing way of helping each other out, and not just during times of crisis.

It is amazing, because it’s how we are meant to be. Courteous, thoughtful, considerate, giving, selfless. The very traits God put into us at Creation. It’s not just Aussie spirit; it’s how we humans are meant to be.