City staffer offers some perspective after Hurricane Matthew

Jeremiah Glisson
Fleet and Facilities Maintenance Director
City of Fernandina Beach
November 23, 2016 1:00 a.m.

Editor’s Note:  This week Jeremiah Glisson, a long time city employee who serves  as director of Fleet and Facilities, offers some thoughts after Fernandina’s close encounter with Hurricane Matthew.  We thank Jeremiah for his contribtion.

Fernandina Beach City Manager Dale Martin will be back next week with his “Weekly Comments from Dale Martin.”

We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses. Abraham Lincoln recognized the importance of having a healthy perspective. It always amazes me how events that occur in our lives can successfully change our life views.

In the wake of Hurricane Matthew I am cognizant of this reality. The damage to the island was minimal in comparison to what happened to countries like Haiti and other parts of Florida for that matter, but it reminded everyone that was affected by it of how devastating these storms can be. Some of us have been around and weathered a few of these storms, but Matthew’s posture concerned many of us.

Recovery efforts began as quickly as October 13 and crews are wrapping up the debris pickup and should be done before Thanksgiving. Approximately 2,500 tons of vegetation will be removed. All material is being hauled to the Airport for grinding.

A small brush with a storm like this can really re-define what we call a problem. All too often we get caught up with some of the petty nuances of life and end up pleading guilty in making mountains out of a mole hills. Whether it’s our food that is served a bit too cold, our cell phone battery that is draining too fast, or the car that just so rudely pulled out in front of us – all these inconveniences can turn into stressful problems if we allow them. The key word being “if”.

All too often the difference between something stimulating or stressfull is just a matter of perspective. I recently had the privilege of touring parts of Costa Rica, a country renowned for its beaches and biodiversity. In a Third World country many of the luxuries that we are accustomed to are totally absent. I traveled to experience real Costa Rican life and I made a point to stay from the tourist spots.

The trip was enjoyable and successful; however, I wasn’t immune from some of the problems that impoverished countries often face. A short stop at a beach access and my rental car was broken into and most all of my luggage was stolen. At first I was despondent and wrote the trip off as done and ruined. After some time of reflection, my initial response of thinking this trip was ruined was replaced with one of gratitude that the situation wasn’t worse. I still had my passport, had no injuries, and I was able to return home. I confess that I went looking for the full Costa Rican experience. Well, a little forced charitable giving was part of the package.

I have been working for the City for quite a few years and I have heard my fair share of gripes and complaints. Maybe your garbage can was knocked over after pickup, the debris wasn’t picked up fast enough, or your neighbor won’t cut their grass in a timely fashion. Just remember to not lose sight of the bigger picture.

I do believe that Hurricane Matthew centered many of us and reminded us how good we have it. I watched a lot of pre-storm pettiness on social media turn to a genuine draw of togetherness and care for fellow community members. A lot of nuances were forgotten when the looming question of many was “Is there any damage to my home and when can I return?” Perspective does change when there is a threat to life and property.

The quality of life and the attractiveness of this community really are superb which is why Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach is a destination spot for hundreds of thousands of people each year. Our community has a rich history, a beautiful greenway, great beaches, a bustling historic downtown, and many parks to explore.

The holiday season is upon us and we have a lot to be thankful for. The glass really is half full and an attitude of gratitude will help keep it that way. Keep that in mind and have a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas.