six months later

six months ago I was rushing out of a restaurant to get to Scotty's apartment to check the weather.  My parents had just left Myrtle Beach the night before and were expected to hit some rough weather along the way.  I will never forget the moment when my eyes saw the radar.  The three previous Fridays I had been with my Fifth Grade students while going through tornado warnings.  We had come to see it as a Friday routine.  We would hear James Spann and I would take cover in the bathroom of my 2nd story apartment with Bama.  I have always loved the weather and was taught to respect storms not fear them.  My eyes have never seen so many rotations, so much red all at once. 
Fear.
Panic.
Helplessness.
we watched live as Tuscaloosa was torn apart.  I listened as it crossed over the street I traveled each day.  The school I had just left my 60 5th graders at.  My apartment.   The initial shock set in, then a new round of panic.  The same storm system was heading straight for our HOME-home. Early in the morning a storm had blown through and knocked out power and cell phone service. Most people had no idea anything was coming.  I was finally able to get in touch with our families and let them know to take cover.  As everything began to clear we began to see the tip of the devastation that occurred. My mind still cannot fathom the things I have seen and continue to see.  At the same time I stand back in amazement at the wonderful events I have witnessed. Everyone reaching out to one another. Seeing people that haven't spoken to each other in years, open their homes, their hearts, and so much more. 

In 6 months my life has become so much more. 
There is meaning behind each and every day.
I will never doubt that I am exactly where I need to be.
If I wasn't at a job interview I would have been inside my apartment, being brave, and riding it out.
I got the job. I lived. I am where I need to be six months later.