Surprise, surprise! It was indeed a surprise when the storm and tornado hit Canistota last Friday evening. Oftentimes we read or hear about these stormy events, but it is another thing to experience it. For many there were tears over the losses. But what warm thoughts we have when we observe how a community works together and can stand stronger through life's storms. As we survived the tornado together, one could only observe a caring community and a community who really cares for one another. One cannot help but be reminded of the words of Philip Brooks who once said, "Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger people. Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks." Those thoughts inspire us to stand strong throughout the storm of life.