It’s kind of odd, isn’t it. To look out at the calm sea after all we have been through this past week. In sort of a weird kind of way it’s like someone out there said “Let’s go to work on the coast of Maine, now the job’s done, let’s rest.”

In all my 50 years here, which includes observing the storm of 1978, I have never seen the extent of damage we have experienced. The power of the ocean is very hard for me to fully appreciate. Never underestimate Mother Nature.

I readily admit a great caution when it comes to anything on the water. The times I have photographed aboard ships offshore and out of sight of land, have always made me nervous and happy to be back on land. It’s such a foreign territory for me, leading to enormous respect for those who work on the water. Seems like the great power of the ocean can be awakened without notice at almost any time. A very helpless feeling.

My memories from childhood visits with my grandparents in central Pennsylvania come bubbling back when seeing the destructive force of water. Their home was on the edge of the West branch of the Susquehanna River in the town of Clearfield. Often during stays I would help Grandma prepare kindling for the hard coal stoker that lived in the dirt floor basement. I can still recall the smell of river silt that coated the walls in the cellar. Grandma showed me where the high water mark stains were on the walls of the living room from the flood of 1936, long before I was born. It made such an impression. I couldn’t imagine how the water could ever be that high. Grandma said it was awful and very destructive. Fortunately their old house survived but was always a reminder of the helpless feeling as the waters rose into their home.

I’m not good about photographing tragedy – never have been. Somehow I feel that personal loss isn’t my bag. I know it’s important to document but it’s disturbing to me and not a helpful reminder of the power nature holds. It’s heartbreaking. The extent of loss and damage is almost beyond comprehension and a reminder of how truly vulnerable we are.

My thoughts and prayers are with all who have suffered loss and damage. I know that friends along the coast are devastated. I hope that somehow they will manage to find help. It will be a long process that will require coordinated effort. It certainly has reminded us of the ocean’s power.