Though spring has not brought out the best when it comes to weather, it sure seems to have brought out the best in people.
The first day of spring was March 20 and along with it came helpful hands even if it meant sore backs, cold fingers, muddy boots and trips far away from home.
As snow from a tumultuous winter began to melt and the ground was actually visible again, the rivers began to rise and as we all know, those rivers have caused quite a disturbance.
Local National Guard members are in Bismarck helping with flood preparation efforts and any evacuation help needed. Not only are they helping but seem eager to do so. Sleeping on cots and being away from home for a week minimum isn't wavering their spirits.
"This is why I joined," said Capt. Ann Mutzenberger. "I'm just looking forward to doing my part."
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Besides the Guard helping out, there have been thousands of people, young and old, working to build sandbag barriers in Fargo and beyond.
And though these huge volunteer operations are being shown on newscasts across the country, it is likely there are numerous smaller acts of kindness that have just as big of a meaning in small towns across the state.
Mott is among the hamlets facing flooding and though we may not hear about all of the deeds happening there, a little help moving furniture, cleaning up, and offering a place to stay for someone whose house was in the middle of the chaos means so very much. And beyond the physical help, often offering an ear to listen is among the most important acts of kindness.
Besides flooding, the blizzard that socked the area also brought out the best in many. Snowmobilers were nice enough to pick up hospital staff so they could get to work. Not only do the volunteers deserve thanks but the staff that slept at the hospital to make sure patients could be taken care of does. Many would likely have preferred being in their own beds during a cold snowy night but they knew what had to be done.
Neighbors took the time to help neighbors plow, snow blow and shovel. Strangers stepped outside to push and pull and tug to try to get vehicles out of snow banks. Farmers worked together to take care of livestock.
This is what residents are doing, this is what makes the state strong, and people aren't doing these tasks for the thanks. However, we want to send out a thank you. We are glad to live where storms are strong but so is community.
-- The Dickinson Press Editorial Board meets weekly to discuss
issues important to the community.
