Recently Northwest Arkansas (NWA) was hit with one of the worst ice storms in its history.  It was unlike anything I had ever seen.  You couldn’t even walk outside without the fear of a tree or power line falling on you.  A Federal State of Emergency was issued Thursday January 29th 2009 by President Barack Obama declaring NWA a disaster area.  This storm devastated the area by destroying thousands of trees, causing millions of dollars worth of property damage, leaving over 200,000 homes without power for days, and it has even taken the lives of many residents.  With temperatures in the lower teens and windshields in the single digits, NWA became a treacherous ice trap.  Friday afternoon Governor Mike Beebe toured the area, and got a firsthand look at the ice storm damage.

“It’ll be tough for some for the next few days, but we’ll get through it. We’ll get through it together as Arkansans working together. We will solve this problem just like we solved other problems.” – Gov. Mike Beebe

My family was very fortunate because we were able to keep power throughout the whole storm, however many of our friends and relatives suffered and found themselves left in the dark frozen obscurity.   Even with power this storm has been extremely inconvenient leaving many confined to their homes, however in spite of it all we have kept our spirits high and have found comfort in God’s provision.  With disasters such as the 2009 Ice Storm the aftermath leaves you with a since of gratitude for the luxuries that God so graciously has provided to my family, Arkansas, and the United States.  Yesterday, my family and I decided to drive around and see how severe the damage truly was.  I am still burdened over the great loss that many of the NWA residents and businesses have incurred.  As I reflect upon these things it is a reminder that we should be there for one another.  Be praying for all those who were devastated by the storm.

“Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” – Matt. 22:39 (KJV)

Below are some pictures of the 2009 Ice Storm that will be left in our hearts for years to come.

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