January 13

Community is defined as a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common; a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals. M. Scott Peck, an American psychiatrist and best-selling author, best known for his book, The Road Less Traveled stated the following on community: There can be no vulnerability without risk; there can be no community without vulnerability; there can be no peace, and ultimately no life, without community.

We belong to communities from where we live, to our faith group, to the activities or groups we enjoy, and to our work to name a few. The aspect of community that I focus on today is the town or city. These past few years we have seen a plethora of natural disasters- tornadoes, earthquakes, epic storms, wildfires and floods. Here in Colorado last year we experienced wildfires and an epic flood. During these times of devastation we see the gift of community. People reaching out helping those affected. It is powerful.

The towns of Lyons, CO and Estes Park were two of the most affected by Colorado's September flood. 17 inches of rainfall was just too much for our waterways and reservoirs. Lyons and Estes Park were isolated from the rest of the state due to the new paths the rivers carved as well as the highways and bridges destroyed or greatly compromised. Once people were safely rescued the enormous issues of safe water and sewer lines took weeks to solve along with the months of rebuilding of roads to transport people and supplies for the long road of recovery. People suffered greatly. Lives were lost, homes and cars were destroyed or greatly damaged. The business community of these towns suffered greatly and some had to close their doors for good. Many workers had no job to go to. Schools had to be relocated. These locals helped each other rebuild along with the wonderful help from outside volunteers. It was widely publicized that Lyons and Estes Park were open for business recently and they needed people to bring some life back to the businesses that survived.

We spent Saturday afternoon in Lyons. The spirit of the locals was impressive. The bond of this community was powerful and positive. Workers appreciated our business and we certainly felt good giving it to them. The stories they told were touching. It was a delightful day of enjoyment of a nearby community. I was filled with gratitude.

I close with a quote by Frederick Buechner, The life I touch for good or ill will touch another life, and that in turn another, until who knows where the trembling stops or in what far place my touch will be felt.

Peace.