Rebuilding After a Loss

There are moments when we are reminded about what is truly important and challenge us to reprioritize and examine our way of life. For many, a moment like this occurred this past week, as Hurricane Sandy tore her way through the east coast, leaving devastation in her path. While we in the Boston area were fortunate to escape the worst, residents of New York and New Jersey were not so lucky. The damage has been well documented, and the poignant images will certainly stick with us in the days and weeks to come. We watch the aftermath from afar, as if a part of some high profile TV show or movie. The images feel too outrageous to be real and all to soon following the event, something else happens and the news world moves on. The focus and attention that the victims so deserve, is given to some other cause. Unfortunately, for those most affected, the process of moving on is not so simple. It is not until we experience a moment like this, first hand, that we truly understand the magnitude. Think, for a moment, about the concept of having nothing, of walking away from a situation with just the clothes on your back. In this age of advancement and excess, it is certainly thought that, for most, is difficult to comprehend.

This past April, my wife and I lost our home to a fire. The call from the fire department came on an unassuming Tuesday morning while I was in the office. Our lives were turned upside down and everyday that has passed since has been affected and changed by that day. We did our best, with the help of those around us, to begin to pick up the pieces and try to find normal again. Fast-forward seven months, and we are still trying. Our home is finally underway and the light at the end of the tunnel grows brighter everyday. Although it is every designer’s dream to build their own house, I certainly wish I had the opportunity for it to happen under better circumstances. The process for those affected by Hurricane Sandy, of picking up the pieces and rebuilding will be difficult and the damage, both physical and emotional, will not soon be forgotten. Even after the rebuilding process is complete, a process that could, and will likely take years.

I would challenge you to take a look at your priorities and think about doing what you can, to help those affected by this natural disaster. As designers, it is certainly an opportunity to look at how we can design to help better these situations in the future. But right now, our time and energy is best spent, helping those left in the wake, pick up the pieces and find normal again.

-Jon