Back in my bedroom sewing some curtains, I noticed my children were not being their normal noisy selves, which as every parent knows, is something to be worried about. We had recently moved into a new home, and my children, then  ages four, three and one, were exploring it. Checking on them, I was horrified to discover each of my sons, sitting in front of a glass filled with liquid, milk-white oven cleaner. When we moved, I had stashed it in a closet, planning to find a better place for cleaning supplies later. Sometimes, we’re fortunate to stop a heartache before it happens. I realized, I had prioritized decorating my house, over making it safe for small children.

These last weeks we’ve grieved for the people of Texas and the tragic loss of life, in a devastating flash flood.  We think of families missing loved ones, of little children washed away by a river. Our hearts ache for the anguish of broken families.  We find strength in the knowledge,   “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

The days since the tragedy  have revealed a series of  troubling decisions.  Decisions which led to lost opportunities, that would have warned people to evacuate along the Guadalupe River System.  Though warnings  may not have saved every person, many more would have survived. In the past 20 years, appeals for grants were denied. Resources to pay for flood warnings, rejected . . . and Federal funds directed elsewhere. Other perceived issues took priority. While almost everyone knew of the danger, no government entity was willing to pay for a system that would have warned of approaching danger.  A system which would have alerted those who lived and camped along the river, to evacuate.

Priorities shape our lives. The tragedy in Texas is a cautionary tale to look at our own lives, our values, and our priorities. It’s a reminder to not only examine our personal lives, but our communities, our states and our nation’s priorities.

Not every tragedy can be prevented. But our response can be shaped in ways that put lives first. In the midst of a changing climate, where torrential rains drop more water than in the past, and storms grow increasingly stronger, wisdom tells us to prepare.

Denial will never bring back lost children or quiet sobs of grieving of families. But, preparation can prevent more broken hearts.  The scripture says of Wisdom:

“Blessed are those who find wisdom,
those who gain understanding,
for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.
She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her . . .
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
those who hold her fast will be blessed.” Proverbs 3:13-15, 18