By Mary Ekene

Hurricane Harvey really brought a focal point to United States of America; that no matter what gender, race, financial background everyone who was affected was either affected physically or mentally

This hurricane felt like it came out of the blue and cities such as Houston, Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange, Texas were affected tremendously.

When I saw the news, read the newspapers, heard the stories of how people lost EVERYTHING, it really broke my heart and reminded me to count my blessings

You have to count your blessings because going through disasters like this is unfortunate and sad. All I can personally say is that I thank God for my life and my family’s life.

I continue to pray every day for the families who have lost everything and who have had to bury family members and friends. My deepest condolences to all of those families and May God continue to be with you all.

I know I am truly grateful to all of the churches and shelters that donated food, water, diapers, baby food, clothes, shoes, cleaning products, school supplies.   It was really shown in our community the love between these places. It was great to see everyone come together and help out families who needed the help. I know personally I received help from several places but I really appreciated First Baptist Church 7637 MLK Drive Orange, TX 77632 for all of their contributions for the people in the community

There were several others remained nameless, but I know personally us thank you. To the residents of Houston, Beaumont, Port Arthur and Orange Texas who were affected by Hurricane Harvey you are in my prayers.

To the resident of Florida and the other locations affected by Hurricane Irma, Jose etc., my prayers are with you all as well

I hope that this disastrous affair has taught us as people to not take life lightly and to be strong people. We need to be strong people not only for ourselves, but for the people around us. God speed.

Mary Ekene founder The Institution of Performing Arts in Orange