When Tom and I arrived on Green Turtle Cay last week, we were prepared for what we would meet. We’d seen the images and heard stories of the destruction Hurricane Dorian had visited upon this little island.

What I wasn’t expecting was how beautiful New Plymouth still is. Bruised and battered? Definitely. Still in need of help? Absolutely.

Thanks to Tom for this video of the settlement of New Plymouth, shot October 30, 2019

But, as the saying goes, true beauty comes from inside, from the heart. And the heart of Green Turtle Cay is bigger and stronger than ever.

Wherever we went, we were greeted with warm hugs from local residents and second homeowners. The foreign volunteers we met seemed happy to be there, helping. One told me, “I’m living my best life right here.”

Don’t misunderstand me. As it is throughout much of Abaco, life on Green Turtle Cay is tough these days. There’s no electricity. City water is unreliable at best. The days are long and hot, the showers cold and infrequent. It’s buggy. People are exhausted. They’re grieving family members and friends taken by Dorian in other parts of Abaco, and missing those who’ve been evacuated. They’re longing for their old lives.

And yet, spirits are high. Everyone is grateful to be alive — and incredibly appreciative of the aid and support they’re receiving. They’re forging ahead toward recovery with a unity and commitment that’s simply awe-inspiring.

My Dad always said, “The world could learn a lot from Green Turtle Cay.” I wish he were here to see that it’s more true today than ever.

To learn more about how you can help Bahamian victims of Hurricane Dorian, click HERE.

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