This day last year on Monday, October 29th started like any other. I was sitting in front of my computer, sipping a cup of coffee, and checking all my emails. The only difference was that I was working from home – because of the approaching storm, we were advised to stay indoors. I had all the supplies I needed, and as the day went on I became increasingly more afraid. I was afraid of how the storm would impact my area, and especially for those along the coast having to evacuate.
Later in the day I watched the skies turn gray the winds start to blow. The power went out and news coverage was lost. Like many others, I felt so disconnected from the world, I wanted to know what was going on. That night, Sandy blew though our state like a woman scorned, and turned many lives upside down. I couldn't believe my eyes when I finally saw pictures and video of Sandy’s destruction. My heart broke for the families who lost their homes and the hard-working people who lost their businesses.
But as much as Sandy tore parts of our State apart, it brought us that much closer together. I remember assembling a crew of volunteers from Westfield – a group of people more than ready and willing to help our neighbors pick up the pieces. A feeling of unity, power, and pride swept across New Jersey, as people from all over the state came to clean up the mess Sandy left. New Jersey was determined to help it’s residents recover, and do whatever it took to restore its towns and shore.
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Today, we remember those who were lost in the storm. We honor the people who have worked so hard this year to rebuild parts of our State that were destroyed. Today I feel blessed to live in such a wonderful place – a place where people can come together in a time of need and selflessly give all that they can.
Today and always I am proud to say that I am from New Jersey – a state that is truly stronger than any storm.
