The homelessness crisis is worsening on the West Coast. Many people are just a job loss or a bad decision away from losing their homes. It’s a fragile situation.
Last week, my family faced a devastating loss due to wildfires in Los Angeles. My husband’s childhood home, standing for over a century in Pacific Palisades, turned to ash. The community is left in disbelief, asking not just “why,” but “how could this happen?”
Over a thousand people now find themselves homeless, including well-known faces from the area. Essential places like schools, grocery stores, and parks have been reduced to rubble. This disaster hits especially hard for those on fixed incomes, like my elderly in-laws.
As my mother-in-law said, “It’s just stuff!” But that “stuff” includes cherished memories—photo albums, artwork, and heirlooms that can never be replaced. The emotional toll from losing these items is immeasurable.
Sudden homelessness can bring anxiety and a sense of vulnerability. Even the strongest among us can feel helpless. Recently, my mother-in-law was brought to tears by the kindness shown to her. The feeling of loss weighs heavily; they must feel like they’ve lost a part of themselves.
After disasters, the emotional impact can be profound. Last summer, Vermonters experienced similar flooding. What can we do to cope? While food and clothing banks are valuable, they don’t help us process our grief. When home is lost, where do we find comfort and support?
In the chaos of evacuation, my father-in-law clung to familiar routines. He repeatedly tried to call his landline, hoping to hear his answering machine. Small moments of normalcy can provide relief amid chaos. But the reality hit when they realized their home was gone.
Our homes reflect who we are. We create spaces that feel like our own, and losing that can be profoundly painful. Beyond the physical structure, there’s a loss of community. Many people choose to rebuild after such events, hoping to recreate what they had.
Humans need connections. The isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic showed us how crucial community is for our mental health. When we feel alone, it can lead to deeper issues like depression or anxiety.
If you or someone you know is struggling with loss or feelings of isolation, reach out for help. Local hotlines can provide support, but always consider professional advice for serious symptoms.
While my mother-in-law insists it’s “just stuff,” we know it’s much more. An article in the LA Times highlighted how toxic forced positivity can be. It can block people from truly processing their feelings. Instead of brushing aside trauma, it’s important to let those who are hurting express their emotions. Sometimes, just being there to listen can make a big difference.
Facing trauma alone is tough. The safety of being surrounded by friends and family can help ease the pain. Connecting with others can provide the comfort we all need during these difficult times.
When others offer help, practicing the art of saying yes can be important. Accepting support can feel foreign, especially for those used to being self-sufficient, but it’s crucial for healing.
Patience is key. Healing doesn’t always mean forgetting. As memories fade, they can become harder to grasp. Regardless of how long it takes, being gentle with ourselves and others is crucial.
Talking things out is also powerful. Therapy resources are often available, and sometimes all it takes is a conversation with a trusted friend. Bottling up feelings about trauma only makes things harder.
In the spirit of comfort, here’s a simple recipe for No-Knead Comforting Sandwich Bread:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
Method
- In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
- Add warm water and combine until slightly stretchy.
- Push dough to the bottom of the bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for two hours.
- After rising, fold dough over itself and place it in a greased and floured bread tin. Let it rise for another hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake for about 40 minutes, then cool before slicing.
Enjoy this bread as a comforting replacement for store-bought options!
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