Source: Washington Post
My hometown of New Orleans has shown us what resilience is. Ten years after Hurricane Katrina, the people of the Crescent City have rebuilt, reengaged and reemerged in a new way.
Schools, businesses, neighborhoods, restaurants and the population look different. The city could not have done this without four Ps.
- People
- Possibility
- Positivity
- Pride
Resilience is based on these factors.
- People: Relationships are a key component. Neighbors and communities from around the country helped New Orleanians to evacuate, survive and rebuild. Regardless of our situation, having the support of others is invaluable.
- Possibility and a vision for the future also generate resilience. When we look beyond our situation and envision positively what could be, we create hope.
- Positivity is essential to building resilience. Developing a positive perspective and generating emotions such as pride, love, awe and joy support us when our resilience is low.
- Pride: New Orleanians have a tremendous amount of pride and love for our city from the people to the music, food and way of life. This pride was an important factor in people’s desire to return and rebuild. We had bumper stickers that said, “Proud to call it home” and “Proud to swim home.”
Hurricane Katrina was an unprecedented disaster that played out on the international stage. Having been in the city right after the storm and seeing it today, it is amazing how many parts have come back stronger and inspiring how people have rallied.
While not on the scale of Katrina, we all have our own personal storms and experiences. Incorporating resilience components of support, possibility, positivity and pride will help you to weather any storm.
In memory of those who lost their lives. In tribute and gratitude to those who returned and helped to rebuild. “Laissez les bon temps rouler.”