A Major Hurricane Is Headed Straight For Me

On acceptance, control and staying sober

An historic pier on the island where I work was severely damaged in Hurricane Helene as another major hurricane heads our way — Photo by author

In about 36 hours, the worst hurricane to hit our section of the coastline in 100 years will be bearing down on my little island.

My heart is beating at a rapid speed and I can feel the blood moving through every vein in my body.

I am sitting at my desk at the tiny police department where I work, still handling calls from people who are feverishly attempting to clean up the mess left last week in the wake of Hurricane Helene, before another storm, “Milton” this time, possibly makes landfall within 50 miles of my home.

For the time being, the alerts have stopped, the phone isn’t ringing and no one is crying out for me to take care of yet another seemingly infinitesimal task that keeps coming.

Just. Breathe.

Isn’t that what people always say to do? Truly amazing how much it helps to consciously take a slow breath in and then release it even more slowly. You should try it. Right now.

There was a time when an impending hurricane meant planning the next drink. It is part of the hurricane culture, after all. Part of a well-stocked hurricane supply is ensuring one has plenty of whatever drink of choice on hand to numb the fear.