Water

“Nothing is softer or more flexible than water, yet nothing can resist it.” – Lao Tzu

I’m going to keep this one short. Because to be honest, I’m exhausted.

The Irish and the Scots called their whiskey “uisge beatha,” or water of life. That’s how important it was to them. Water is key to making great whiskeys. Most distilleries, including Buffalo Trace (which I’m still procrastinating on) sit on major rivers or aquifers. Kentucky is especially rich in pure, lovely, limestone filtered, water. That’s why it’s perfect for bourbon.

Water is also key to life. Sixty percent of our bodies are made of it. Watson and Crick, and ALL other scientists believe that it is the key to life on Earth. In fact, they believe it is the key to life EVERYWHERE.

Water is beautiful. Think of the awesome lakes that we love to visit and play in, the vast beautiful oceans that mesmerize us with their inviting beaches, the awe-inspiring water falls that we love to frequent. The awe-inspiring canyons that it has carved. You get the idea.

Water is also the most destructive force on Earth.

We’ve learned that the hard way in central Indiana over the past week. The state and federal governments have both declared much of Indiana disaster areas. Hamilton and Marion counties were both hit especially hard. You all know this.

I have family who live in the small community of Ravenswood on the north side of Indianapolis. Ravenswood floods quite often; it’s right by White River. Never has it flooded like this. My family’s home (which usually is unaffected by the frequent flooding) had two feet of water in the house. Needless to say; most is lost and the house needs major repairs.

So, I want to take the time this week to acknowledge the devastation that has occurred to our communities. Because in the grand scheme of things, bourbon isn’t important.

Life, family, home, country, friends – those are some of the things that are really important.

Community is also important. It’s always amazed me how Americans and especially Hoosiers come together in a time of crisis. Much of the time we’re bickering over politics, or sports, or horrible driving. Yet when things get tough, we are there for each other. It’s truly amazing and uplifting. This crisis is no different.

The outpouring of pure raw muscle, time, energy, food, water, supplies, and just plain hard work has been wonderful. This isn’t just happening with my family. It’s happening all across the Hoosier state. And I thank you. Thank you for your care, your compassion, your hard work, and your donations. YOU are heroes.

My family’s needs are being fulfilled, but MANY, MANY, others still need help. If you feel that you would like to help out, please do a Google search of Indiana flood relief. Here’s a short list: Indianapolis Flood Relief Fund, American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Convoy of Hope.

Or … if you have neighbors in need, make them a lasagna, bring them some cleaning supplies, hand them a 20 spot, pat them on the back, and give them a hug. Every little bit helps.

Tonight, I’m raising my Glencairn to you, Indiana. Cheers! We’ll get through this together. We’re Hoosiers, that’s what we do.

And now, seriously, I’m off to bed. Back at the recovery and restoration tomorrow.

Jon Smyrnis is a lifelong Indianapolis area resident. He enjoys traveling, hiking, biking, kayaking, dining out, and, of course, fine cocktails and great bourbons.