La Taza Habla

Western NC - Thorns & Gratitude: How Disaster Forged A Stronger Community


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In this special episode of La Taza Habla, we deviate from our usual format to reflect on the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact on Western North Carolina's high country. Our host, Don Cox (aka Bald Guy), speaks from the international headquarters in Boone, NC, to share his personal experience and gratitude for the community's response. He reflects on the flooding and landslides that ravaged the area, noting that his generation has never witnessed such an event. The episode highlights how the community, including customers and volunteers, came together to provide essential aid like tractors, water, food, blankets, and generators, demonstrating a profound sense of unity beyond political or religious divides. Don shares a powerful quote about finding roses among the thorns and emphasizes how the storm ultimately quickened their resolve and desire to do good. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the Watauga County community and the spirit of a community that found joy in the midst of trials.

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  • 5 Takeaways
    1. Community Unity: The hurricane response brought people together across all divides—political, religious, and social—to help one another.
    2. Finding Gratitude: Even in the midst of disaster, there is an opportunity to find gratitude for what remains and the support received.
    3. Resilience is a Choice: The storm did not defeat the community; instead, it strengthened their resolve and desire to do good.
    4. The Work Isn't Over: While the immediate crisis has passed, many in the community, particularly in Watauga, Avery, and Ashe counties, are still dealing with the aftermath.
    5. Small Businesses' Strength: Despite the challenges, businesses like Bald Guy Brew Coffee  Roasting Co. were able to keep their employees working and their operations running.
    6. 3 Questions:
      1. What does the quote "I am grateful that thorns have roses" mean to you in the context of personal challenges?
      2. Have you ever experienced a natural disaster that brought your community together? What was that like?
      3. What are some ways to continue supporting communities long after the news cycle moves on?
      4. ...more
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        La Taza HablaBy doncox