Annie Neugebauer’s blog post today sets a fitting tone for Americans who are reeling from the events in Boston, MA and West, Texas this week. Our hearts go out to the families of victims and first responders. Welcome Annie and thank you for your words of consolation.
~Rich Weatherly
A Guest Post + 2 Poems
Annie is a short story author, novelist, and award-winning poet.
Hey guys,
It feels weird to continue on in such horrible news. First Boston and now West, which is a small Texas town about an hour and a half south of where I live. Everyone I know is sad right now, myself included. These are days to go dark, spend time with loved ones, and reflect. But of course I have no control over the timing of tragedy, so I hope you’ll understand where my heart is when I share my news and publications with you.
[I’m no expert, but I imagine that unless you’re a first responder or a trained disaster relief worker, staying away (physically) is probably more helpful than driving down to West right now. Last I heard they have serious traffic problems with all of the emergency vehicles. The best information that I’ve gathered, if you’re in the area and wanting to help: you can donate blood at any of these locations or donate funds to The Salvation Army. If you’re around Denton, you can also drop off water and goods at UNT.]
Rich Weatherly - Author 
Wherever you are in the world, it is always heart-rending to read about such large scale loss of life and injury. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.
So true, T.James.
Let me express my most sincere appreciation for your kind word sir.
I’m always eager to hear what you have to say!
Thanks for sharing, Rich. I enjoyed the poems and post by Annie.
Thank you, Rhonda!
I’ve enjoyed reading and Annie’s poems and thought others might like them as well.
She’s releasing more work soon.
Thanks again for your comments!
Rich, it’s wonderful to have such an outpouring of kindness. But better to set up a fund to help people recovering afterwards or donate to charities that are able to go there and make a difference. 🙂 I think it’s good to share Anne’s poems and remind us of the good things in this world when we are facing the bad.