Each of us has a place to call home. No matter the size or structure, location or zip code, we tend to view home with nostalgia and a bit of pride. One day we’re doing what we do, knowing what we know, loving what we love, and the next? Gone. In minutes, our lush livelihood could be transformed by wildfire into nothing but smoke and debris.
Farmers and ranchers in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Colorado recently faced the most devastating wildfire ever to race across their states. Entire properties were burned to the ground. Lives were lost. Land was ravished. Cattle died or had to be destroyed. Home is unrecognizable.
These families don’t yet have an answer to the question, “What now?” but they will. Because if there is any good to glean from such utter devastation, it’s this:
The world is full of good people who know how to care for the downtrodden, boost the broken, and lend helping hands to those whose hands are tied.
The human spirit is an amazing piece of creation. And this story — of fear, heartbreak, survival and hope — can only be told by those who know what it means to walk through fire.
What now?
The March 2017 wildfire burned more than one million acres in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Colorado. Reconstruction has begun. Visit BeefUSA.org to discover ways you can help. Part II of these stories is coming soon.
Learn even more about the road to recovery and what it means to love your neighbor, from these stories making headlines:
Facebook Spurs Army of Ohio Farmers
“When God has a need, what he does is raise up people who are generous to fulfill the need. And that’s what He did here. It’s amazing.”
Missouri Farmers Lend Helping Hand
“It’s just breathtaking to be able to drive for an hour through the hills of Kansas, southwest Kansas, and ever direction you look everything is burnt for miles and miles.”
Ag Community Rallies To Help Ranchers Affected By Wildfire
“This is what the aftermath of a natural disaster is all about–people helping complete strangers.”
