Gustave and Ike

I have to admit that in this case, I don't like Ike. Ike, the hurricane now in the Gulf of Mexico, that is.

Just last week, our family and many others from our entire region made hasty plans to evacuate in the face of the coming hurricane, Gustave. I spent the better part of two day boarding up the house, getting things out of the yard and into the garage, and otherwise tying down what was loose. Then there was gasoline and supplies to buy, as well as other preparations that needed to be made. Gustave just skirted our area but lowered the boom on Baton Rouge and points to the south and northwest.

It was no fun to feel the stress and uncertainty of exactly when and where the storm might strike. It was certainly no fun (and not cheap) to make an evacuation run to my son's house in the Dallas area. All along the route, traffic was heavy, gas stations were crowded, and fuel pumps often covered with a plastic bag to indicate that they were out of fuel. No vacation here.

The storm passed. We get the "all clear" word and join a convoy headed south. More stress and time. As we arrive home, exhausted, we hear another storm is brewing and possibly headed our way. Thoughts of moving to safer locale did enter my mind.

But then, another thought came. If I moved to California, I would have to contend with mudslides, wildfires, and earthquakes. Much of the middle Atlantic states this year faced tornadoes and floods. The northwest areas often deal with subzero cold temperatures and long winters. Most of these weather events give little time to prepare for their arrival.

We have been praying for the victims of Gustave and want to help, but with Ike's uncertainty that has been something on hold. Last night, our church hosted a prayer meeting for safety and protection from the storms. Now we are praying for the folks on the Texas coast who may have an unwanted arrival on their doorsteps by week's end.

You can run but you can't hide. The best thing I think you can say about hurricanes is at least there is some advance warning.

To be forewarned is to be forearmed.

Many times I could use four arms!