Asheville: A City of Beauty and Resilience
Asheville, North Carolina is a place that holds a certain charm for travelers, a spot where the mountains seem to rise just a little taller and the rivers flow a little wider. Recently, I had the chance to explore this beautiful city on an overnight trip with my oldest child, Aidan. As we drove down the winding roads of I-26, we were captivated by the stunning mountainous terrain that surrounded us. It felt a bit like home, yet different in the most delightful ways.
Adventures in the City
Saturday night found us wandering the streets of Asheville, soaking in the unique culture that the city is renowned for. My political views lean towards the conservative side, but I couldn’t help but appreciate the diverse, almost creative energy that filled the air. From street performers to artisan shops, Asheville’s vibrant atmosphere seemed to urge us to slow down and enjoy the moment. While my son was busy at a soccer camp at UNC Asheville, I couldn’t resist sneaking in a visit to what I believe is one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation. Trees, flowers, and stunning architecture blended seamlessly, making it a sight to behold.
A Growing Concern
While exploring Asheville, I learned of the recent devastation caused by extreme flooding in the region. Less than two years ago, my own community faced a similar disaster, and my heart ached as I listened to the accounts of families left struggling amidst chaos. The reports coming out of Asheville revealed a haunting situation—entire communities cut off from support, with rescue efforts underway but undoubtedly hindered by the scope of the disaster. It’s heartbreaking to see how quickly nature can change lives and landscapes.
Time to Step Up
In many ways, the flooding in Asheville has become a rallying call for those of us living in the surrounding areas, especially those of us who faced our own trials during the floods of 2022. I have seen firsthand how important it is for communities to come together during times of need. We cannot forget the kindness and support that came from neighboring towns when we were in distress. Now, it’s our turn to return that goodwill. I urge everyone to take action—whether that means donating supplies, contributing to charities involved in recovery efforts, or even volunteering your time to help.
Why Solidarity Matters
It is crucial to look out for our neighbors, especially in regions like Appalachia. There’s a tendency for media attention to wane after the initial shock of a disaster, but the reality is that recovery is a long process. The communities near Asheville will need ongoing support, and it is up to us to ensure they do not fade from our minds. After our own floods, residents from Asheville were among those who offered assistance and support to our recovery, proving once more that resilience knows no borders.
Help is Key
As regions like eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina begin to restore their lives, we must remain vigilant in offering our help. Many who urgently need assistance were also there for us during our tough times. Local efforts have shown time and again that while federal funding can aid recovery, it is the communities that truly drive change and rebuild hope. So as we come together, let’s remember the important lessons we’ve learned: compassion, action, and solidarity can make all the difference.
