Brenda’s Blog – October 18, 2016
“Each student is required to have an emergency storm plan.”
As Dr. Bill Fleming, President of Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, FL, and I talked about the predicted landfall of Hurricane Matthew, he mentioned their mandatory preparedness. “We have never had to use the plans, but we know each student, faculty and staff member understands what steps to take – and have them written down.”
Matthew stayed off-shore and did minimal damage to PBA. For that we are grateful. But had it come ashore, they were ready to react safely.
Don’t we all have potential storms looming? Career changes, relationship shifts, health issues, geographical moves, spiritual temptations, emotional distress… all these come with high winds and rainy days. Some hit us with little notice, while others are predictable and we see the patterns forming.
How do we prepare? Here are just a few ideas: 1) Learn to read the cues and clues; 2) play the what if game to understand options; 3) understand personal strengths and weaknesses; 4) build a support network of wise counselors for each area of potential change; 5) seek the Lord’s face each day, readying your heart for whatever He brings; 6) believe that you will come through and 7) as my Dad always said to me, “Never lose the good of a bad experience.”
Dr. Fleming emphasized that these plans prepare the members of the PBA community with an exit strategy. Scripture tells us that our God’s hand is always on us and whatever storms of temptation beset us, He provides a way of escape. He promises He will “never leave us nor forsake us.” Leaning on Him must be the foundation of any preparation.
Stormy weather is inevitable. But an action plan allows us to operate with purpose and poise. And, the opportunity to encourage others in their storms is a benefit. “How did you do it?” is a question which will open doors for conversations and sharing of enduring truths.