Finding Grace in the Midst of Loss

A Journey Through Hurricane Helene

On an ordinary day, I wouldn’t have imagined that the very heartbeat of my life—the hotels we’ve built, the communities we’ve loved—could be swept away in the blink of an eye. In one day, Hurricane Helene devastated four of our hotels: two in Chimney Rock, NC, and two in St. Pete Beach, FL. What was once a vibrant cornerstone for so many people became an echo of loss, with broken walls and shattered memories. But as I sit here and think about the aftermath, I’ve learned that within the storm, there is also an opening for grace.

The feeling of loss has been profound, but it has also carved out space in my heart for something bigger—service. This devastation didn’t take everything from us. In fact, it’s given us something much greater: the ability to see just how much we still have, and how much more we can give. Through the pain, I’ve realized that helping others is not just an act of kindness; it’s become my saving grace.

We have our health, our family, and a spirit that refuses to break, no matter how high the waters rise. And there are people—good, hardworking Americans—whose lives were washed away, leaving behind not just belongings but a deep sense of uncertainty about the future. Our employees, the heart of our hotels, have shown courage beyond measure. Many lost their homes, their sense of security, but they continue to show up, work hard, and rebuild, not just for themselves but for the communities we love.

In the face of so much destruction, I’ve learned that the only thing more powerful than the force of a hurricane is the strength of the human spirit. We can still stand, we can still rebuild, and we can still help those who need it most. This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been transformative. It has reminded me that while we may lose buildings, what really matters is the way we hold each other up through the storm. Together, we’re stronger than any force of nature.

And yet, as I write this, another storm is brewing—a new hurricane heading toward the west coast of Florida, threatening to add insult to injury. With so much already lost, the thought of more destruction is hard to bear. But tonight, Matt and I sat at the dinner table, after both of the kids were tucked safely in bed, and we made a promise to each other. No matter what happens—whether this new storm takes what little remains of our buildings in Florida, or shakes the lives of our friends in the surrounding communities—we will not let the devastation take the joy from our hearts.

We may feel sad, and we will allow ourselves to grieve. But we will also stay positive. We’ve decided that no storm, no loss, will rob us of the beauty we still have. We’ll find joy in the simple things—in connection with people, in quiet moments with family, and in a deep sense of gratitude for what remains. Life is still full, even in the face of emptiness. And that fullness comes from love, resilience, and the ability to find grace, even when the world feels like it’s falling apart.

To all who have been a part of this journey in donating, sharing, and praying for others, thank you. Your generosity, your love, and your belief in what we can rebuild together has been the light in these dark times. While Helene may have washed away buildings, she could never take away the spirit of kindness, strength, and service that has emerged in its wake. We still have so much—more than I could have ever imagined.

Sending so much love to all.