The Upside of Irene

It started with the apocalypse. It ended with an earthquake and a hurricane. Yes, the summer of 2011 came in with a much-talked about event that ultimately affected our lives very little and went out with the same.

We all know that natural disasters can cause tangible harm to survivors, as well as psychological trauma and other forms of stress. But what about the positive effects of a 'disaster' that ends up causing no lasting damage? I have yet to find a study about this (let me know if you do), but I know from personal experience that these are bonding events.

Hurricane Irene may not have changed our lives in Baltimore too much, but the ripple effects are what last. A sense of community encircles such shared events, at least in an area that's already well-connected. In Charles Village, everyone was out before the hurricane, eating that last cheeseburger at CVP or chatting in (the always ridiculously long) line at Giant, and everyone came out afterward, grabbing a cup of coffee at Carma's or stopping to take photos of downed tree branches on Calvert. In between, we were bonding electronically through social media.

As I type this on my lovely red ski lift porch swing and talk to friends who unexpectedly pass by, I think about how much I will miss this neighborhood when I move in a month. Charles Village is always alive with activity and camaraderie, no matter what time of year. The happenings here bring connection - the farmers' market, the marathon, shoveling after a blizzard, and of course the events of this summer.

In one month, I will say goodbye to this place. Until then, I will revel in the post-hurricane afterglow that makes me recall every positive memory I've had here.

For how nostalgic I'm getting, you might think I was leaving Baltimore entirely. In fact, I'm just headed to Waverly. I suppose I can always bike down a few blocks when we get word of an impending tornado/hail storm/plague of cicadas.