Find opportunities to support each other

We often marvel at the watershed moments in our lives that define our existence and change us for the better. Collectively, as a community, we point to the floods of 2008. It tested our mettle, and we can enthusiastically boast that we are stronger than we were before that summer.

For the Cassell family, we suffered the highs and lows during the year like many others; realizing that tragedy happens and how we handled it would be witnessed by all and serve as a testament to our faith. Then a fire that destroyed our home in September left us temporarily without our own home, but we never questioned if we would bounce back from this current trial. Our faith sustains us continually, and we were incredibly grateful that our family was able to escape safely and without injury.

That faith allows us to appreciate the amazing acts of kindness we have experienced in the days and weeks (now months) after the fire. For the prayers, encouragement, financial support, meals, donations and offers that still humble our family, we want to thank everyone who responded during our time of need.

We are rebuilding and look forward to returning to our home in a few short months. We know we couldn't have bounced back in such an amazing way with you our family and community. Our family is stronger than ever.

Cedar Rapids is a place we are grateful to call home; where people come together to meet the needs of the community.

The Cassells challenge you to seek opportunities to support those in our community who deserve the same support we received in our time of need.

' Karl Cassell is president and CEO of Horizons, A Family Service Alliance. Comments: kcassell@horizonsfamily.org