The Journey: We are #NewnanStrong
By SAMANTHA BRAZIE, Special to The Paper
Originally when I moved to Georgia, I lived in Fayetteville. My husband and I thought about living in Coweta County, but the area was not growing much in 2001. However, not long after moving to Fayetteville, we regretted not finding somewhere here. After a few years there, moving to Florida for a job and relocating back in Coweta County, I feel like one of the most important parts of my Journey began.
Newnan specifically has meant a lot to me, including new beginnings. It is where we’ve raised our kids most of their lives. It’s where my daughter met her husband, had our first granddaughter and where my son joined the Marines. It is where I’ve gotten out of my comfort zone more than ever in my life, took chances, and in a lot of ways – pivoted my Journey completely.
A lot of that has to do with the people I have met here. Newnan has gifted me with the most diverse group of friends I’ve ever had in my life. Also, the strongest community. During COVID, I’ve watched as people have completely changed direction and figured things out to stay in business. I’ve seen people change careers to keep working and support their family … well, I (and I’m sure you, too) have seen a lot. What I have always known is that Coweta County is resilient. We fight, and we do more than survive – we thrive.
The tornado has been absolutely devastating. I took my first vacation in several months and came back to what looked like a war zone. It was unbelievable, and still is. However, I’m sure even the people that were most affected by the catastrophe will agree that it is hard to be completely down in the dumps. Our community has proven its strength once again. We had one death, and minimal injuries.
My understanding from feedback that emergency help gave the following Monday, was that they have never seen a community that has done what we did in just a few days. People have been out with heavy machinery, chainsaws and other tools for days. Food has been delivered every single day to areas affected. Donation centers are starting to turn certain donations down because of the outpouring of generosity. If a tornado is going to affect any of us – how fortunate are we to be in a place where people care so deeply?
“No matter how bleak or menacing a situation may appear, it does not entirely own us. It can’t take away our freedom to respond, our power to take action.” – Ryder Carroll
Until next time, friends – we are #NewnanStrong.
