By Staff
CHUCK BODIFORD
And by early Thursday morning there was only darkness, mixed with rain and high winds. As the hours slowly passed, the feeling of a nice air-conditioned room began to fade, reaffirming the fact that electricity had been cut off. The reason for this disruption could have been anything from a snapped power pole, downed lines, a blown transformer or even a combination these or other reasons. But the fact of the matter remained, there was no electricity.
Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Edison both made great contributions to the field of electricity. Most children first learn of Benjamin Franklin by way of his probably most famous experiment involving a kite, a key and a spark from the heavens. Thomas Edison on the other hand took electricity and helped to spread its use in providing light with the perfection of the light bulb.
These men accomplished great feats building a foundation that our world now technologically stands on and deserve the credit that is due them. However, someone that I have been thinking of over the past week or two is a gentleman by the name of Alessandro Volta. And why would I think of this gentleman? Namely because as I watched my daughter, Lakyn, play amidst a barrage of flashing lights and sounds, I was so thankful that none of her toys have power cords attached. Instead they operate on small cylinders ranging in sizes from AAA to D producing varying amounts of electricity. As you can probably guess Volta invented the precursor to the first battery.
With all the turmoil occurring outside, it was such a blessing to watch Lakyn play with her toys and then look back and smile showing off her one and half teeth. She was totally avoid of the danger outside as she sat and played in her world filled with only safety and love, a place that more children should stay longer throughout their lives.
After hurricane Ivan, I feel that the trees aren't blocking the view of the forest as much. As a community we have came together remembering what's really important in life helping one another. If we reach down inside of ourselves and let our love and compassion for each other out, there is nothing that can destroy us. This hurricane proved that. So, as our lives begin to get back to normal in the upcoming weeks and months, please don't forget that by standing together we are stronger.
Chuck Bodiford is an Atmore native and publisher of the Advance. He may be reached by calling 368-2123 or by email at chuck.bodiford@atmoreadvance.com