“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.” (Jeremiah 17:7,8)

It’s still August, and New Orleans is still baking in the summer sun. The plants that persist in this weather are the ones with deep roots… and even they are slim on new growth right now. Instead, their energy is on extending their roots down to find the cool earth and water they need to make it through this season.

As people of faith, we hope to remember that the Lord is the one who sustains us during our struggles. But although God is always with us, we might have trouble seeing God in our lives. This can be especially true for survivors, who have especially good reasons to doubt. However we know that the Divine is in all good things, and you can support survivors by encouraging them to identify and engage with those good things, and expressing interest and appreciation when they do.

The activities that bring peace, courage, and positive energy are probably different for each of us: Maybe it is meditation and communication with God. Or activities with friends. Arts and crafts. A feel-good book. Being in nature. Moving our bodies.

Engaging with things of this sort can help survivors create some calm, restore some agency, cultivate their God-given talents and interests, and honor the gifts they are given as God’s children.