“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth. Muhammad Ali.”
Late last week, The Islands of The Bahamas were battered and bruised by a monstrous category 4 hurricane. This natural disaster given the name Joaquin, crept up on us and left in its path, nothing but utter devastation. The Bahamas is a chain of 700 islands and cays and while every island wasn’t effected by Joaquin, many were. Our Southern & Central Islands took a blow and many residents had to leave their homes with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
I travelled to the island of Long Island, one of the hardest hit islands in the Southern Bahamas. Due to extensive flooding and blocked roads, it is virtually impossible to get to those in need, therefore we had to take a helicopter ride. I thought my first helicopter ride would be somewhere in Nevada while exploring the Grand Canyon, but it wasn’t, but that’s ok. This one meant a great deal more.
As a virgin, hopping into a helicopter and being told to ‘put on your seatbelt’ was the strangest request. My first thought was ‘um, how they do that.” Ever tried to do something but knew you had no idea what you were doing? Yea, that was me. After a little help, I was strapped in and readddd-to-go! A helicopter just might be the loudest thing I’ve ever come into contact with. After adjusting to the noise levels, it was pretty darn awesome! I don’t know anything more beautiful than gliding over the most beautiful waters in the world. Naturally, the windows of a helicopter are much bigger than that of an airplane therefore the visuals are more stunning. While we were unable to complete our mission [tomorrow we will try again], I didn’t mind the 50 minute ride back to the capital. I also need to note, a helicopter ride is slower than I could’ve ever imagined!
I would be doing myself a disservice if I didn’t mention the awesomeness that ensued today. In times of crisis it is truly amazing to see what humanity really is made of. Being amongst nurses, special forces, humanitarians, and international aides all working toward a common goal of rebuilding our society was truly amazing. I urge every Bahamian to do their part in helping to rebuild the Southern & Central Islands of The Bahamas. To those that may be reading this from around the world, we need help. If you are able to lend a hand or donate to rebuilding our hurricane stricken islands, please send me a line @shesomajor [FB, IG, Twitter], every little counts!
