I have learned a few things about grist mills since I've researched the Underground Railroad for my novel-in-progress. Grist mills dotted the rivers of our nation in the first two centuries. Families often gathered at the mill to socialize while they waited for harvested grain to be ground. The mill provided the processing needed to grind flour and corn meal, which could then be baked into bread, a staple of the early American diet.
The mill's grindstone operated through a system of cogs and machinery powered by a large wheel partially submerged in a river. The power of flowing water was harnessed for a common good.
Unfortunately, we in northeastern Pennsylvania have seen the waters of the Susquehanna River and local creeks unleash their power in a devastating way. Flooded homes, and washed out bridges and roads only hint at the underlying stories of human suffering and grief that will continue long after the waters have returned to their banks.
It is chilling to think that water, just like electrical and nuclear power, can be destructive.
God's silver lining in all this is the "love thy neighbor" principle we see as people put their lives back together. I saw many individuals on Facebook offer to provide shelter during the evacuation. Now neighbors are helping neighbors clean up the mess. It seems that disaster can bring people together even more than festivity.
If you have a story of hope in the midst of this tragedy, I would love to hear it.
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