Sunday, May 22, 2011

My Mind on Tuscaloosa

     So, today, I met Sean Rivers, writer and performer of the YouTube new hit, "My Mind of Tuscaloosa." Initially, when I heard this song, I thought of the people hurt, the people who lost everything. Today, when I heard Sean Rivers play and sing the song, I SAW those people. As I stood amongst of what remained of "the sweetest girl" Loryn Brown's home where she took shelter from the tornado, I saw her family standing nearby. It broke my heart to see the hurt. But, once I started talking with her parents, I started seeing a side of mourning and grief that I've never seen before. As I told Loryn's mother today, "You are a model character of strength. And it is such an honor to be here today with you guys." I was standing amongst a group of people who have strength and hope more than I've ever seen before. And, as I watched as the music video unfolded, I saw the raw emotions of Loryn's friend, the ones she was so close to. I talked to one of Loryn's friends today, and she told me that her and Loryn were to have taco night the night of the storm. To hear these stories, it breaks my heart. Yet, it gives me hope to see the strength of these people. Today, I stood with people who had one thing in mind: Tuscaloosa. Rebuilding Tuscaloosa. With all the filming and volunteering, I have seen a new side of Tuscaloosa. And, I am forever grateful for it.
     So, now I have a few people to thank. First of all, I would like to thank Loryn's parents for hanging out with us today. I don't know if they'll ever see this blog, but it means so much to me to get to know them today, and pray with them, and to just soak in the life which Loryn had. God bless you guys!!
     Sean Rivers. I do not even know where to start. Ever since you posted the video "My Mind on Tuscaloosa," I have seen such a genuine, legitimate person come from that. I see that you don't want fame, yet you're very talented in that area. You are a voice for people still in Tuscaloosa, and for those not. I'm so blessed to call you my brother, and can only pray we are able to rebuild Tuscaloosa together!! 
     Bo Black. Dude, you started a movement, and now you're behind the scenes of so much that is going on with the whole "My Mind on Tuscaloosa" movement. Meeting you today was a God-appointment. I truly believe it. Keep doing what you're doing, Bo!! You're changing the world for the better!!
     Lena Boeckmann. You and I go wayyy back!! Haha. It was great hanging out with you today. I'm glad we got to catch up, and chill, and just ride around a bit. You're still the crazy chick I've always known!! :D
     And, for the rest of the group who hung out today- You guys are amazing. I am so blessed to call you all my friend. And, I hope we can all get together more often, and hang out!! 
     When I hear "My Mind on Tuscaloosa," I hear a voice of hope. A strength to stand. I hear God calling us to leave behind what separates us with religion, race, creed, etc. And, to gather hands, and lets rebuild Tuscaloosa!!

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