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Norton: When tragedy strikes

Life has an uncanny way of reminding us how fragile and unpredictable it can be. From the California wildfires that sweep through entire towns, reducing homes and memories to ashes, to hurricanes battering coastlines with unrelenting force, to earthquakes that rattle the very foundation of our lives, we are repeatedly reminded of our vulnerability. Tornadoes, floods, mudslides, cyclones, Nor’easters and blizzards are not just natural phenomena — they are events that alter lives forever. And then there are man-made disasters, oil spills, chemical explosions, and wars that leave scars just as deep.

Wherever we choose to live, there’s an inherent risk. Coastal residents brace for hurricanes; those in the Midwest know the terrifying power of tornadoes; mountain communities are wary of mudslides and wildfires; and urban areas are not immune to floods or infrastructure collapses. The truth is that no one is entirely safe from the whims of nature or human error.

When tragedy strikes, it often leaves a profound sense of loss: lives lost, homes destroyed, businesses shattered, and communities brought to their knees. In these moments, people don’t need clichés, motivational quotes, or hollow assurances that “everything happens for a reason.” What they need is tangible, meaningful help.



Help comes in many forms. It might be financial assistance to rebuild a home, food and water to sustain life, or shelter to provide safety. For some, it’s as simple yet vital as a shoulder to cry on, a compassionate ear, or a quiet presence that reassures them they are not alone. And for many, prayers offered with sincerity can provide a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.

One of the greatest motivators of our time, Zig Ziglar, once acknowledged that even with the most positive mindset, life’s tragedies and challenges are inescapable. Zig, known for energizing audiences with his boundless enthusiasm, understood that there are times when motivation alone isn’t enough. During seasons of profound loss, what matters most is discretion, sincerity and a grounded understanding of the moment.

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This is a time for genuine compassion. It’s not about rushing in to fix things on our terms but taking the time to discern what’s truly needed. Sometimes, in our eagerness to help, we inadvertently make the situation about ourselves, what we can offer, and how we can contribute without fully understanding what would ease the burden.

Time, as they say, is a great healer. And often, the most meaningful thing we can do is give people the time and space to grieve, process and begin to rebuild. Loss is unique to each individual, and so, too, are the paths to recovery. There are no universal solutions, no “right” ways to help. What’s needed is discernment and a willingness to listen.

I’m reminded of a story from Hurricane Harvey, which devastated the Houston area. My friend Mike and his wife had a couple of empty bedrooms as their boys were away at college. Without hesitation, they opened their home to a family they had never met who had lost everything. This act of kindness, born from compassion and empathy, exemplifies the best of humanity.

Not all of us may have spare rooms to offer, but we all have something we can give: our time, talents or resources. Whether it’s organizing donations, volunteering in disaster-stricken areas, or simply being a steady presence for someone who needs it, each act of kindness contributes to the healing process.

As we move forward, let us be mindful of the realities of life when tragedy strikes. Let’s offer hope and encouragement not with words alone but through action, grounded in compassion, empathy and a sincere desire to help. In doing so, we become the steady hands that lift others from despair and the foundation upon which they can rebuild.

Do you have personal experience with man-made or natural disasters? Do you have a family member or friend who has had to face devastation or tragedy? Have you been a part of a community that experienced severe challenges? I would love to hear your story at gotonorton@gmail.com. When we can help foster healing and hope for those in need, it really will be a better-than-good life.

Michael Norton is an author, a personal and professional coach, consultant, trainer, encourager, and motivator of individuals and businesses, working with organizations and associations across multiple industries.


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