The ABC’s of Whirlwinds

Back in the mid-70’s a tornado hit hard in the Northern Virginia area, where I grew up, much like a wild Indian. The resilient rain along with the gloomy storm front, severely damaged one of the local schools, flooded streets, and ruined several other local structures. The most notable destruction was at the local ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) store, where the relentless winds pushed an empty children’s school bus, smack-dab through its plate glass window. Local newspapers featured this on their front page, which gave much mirth to the community, both young and old.

Over the decades, I’ve reflected on this powerful synchronicity and wondered if there was a deeper meaning. After returning to my native roots, I discovered a Lakota reading that compares whirlwinds to falling in love. Only then, could I focus on a new metaphor for this unusual occasion; which is, “Children, the bright whirlwind of love can help defeat the severe darkness of alcohol addiction.”