The heroic and selfless response to the catastrophic Hurricane Harvey, which struck Texas on August 25, 2017, continues to inspire people to live in a way that shows compassion for their fellow men. Regardless of one’s religion or education, one tends to develop empathy for people in need of shelter, food, and other special attention. Human beings learn to live compassionately by example, especially when they observe the selfless sacrifices others make to help people in need. These are the valuable lessons learned from the devastating scenes in the middle of the storm, those calls for help that we observe both on the ground and on television. Each heroic contribution of volunteers opens hearts and minds while developing a degree of moral support for environmental protection groups. In short, concerned people want to make efforts to make this a better world to live in by discovering how to protect their neighbors.

It was inspiring to see the Navy rescuing the citizens of Houston, as well as others throughout Southeast Texas. Their heroic humanitarian efforts were so admirable as they deftly responded to the needs of those in distress. A helicopter saved seven stranded people and then bravely took off again to search for others trapped by the floodwaters. The military acted so bravely during the flood, although one naturally hopes that they will not have to respond to such devastation again in the future.

Neighbors, journalists, foreigners and people of all ethnicities and religions take a hand when they are spontaneously put to the test. A group of journalists risked their lives to save an elderly man in his car when he accidentally got into a deep stream of water. Instead of ignoring an endangered domestic animal, a group of men saved a dog that was about to drown in the threatening waters. Nursing homes were evacuated, while other vulnerable hospitalized people were moved by volunteers. So much bravery abounded to carry out great rescue missions!

People in Texas worked together regardless of their race, origin or national origin during the catastrophic event. It was comforting to know that the homeless were provided shelter, clothing and a place to sleep. Seeing others doing good works to help people in need encourages viewers to consider how everyone can help each other. Although most people are too far away to assist in many humanitarian operations, one might consider living in a way that prevents the future occurrence of other catastrophic weather events.

Many do not agree that climate change exists; however, the possibility is worth seriously examining so as not to endanger future generations. Providing free, excellent science education for all young people and taking better care of our planet could prevent future climate-related tragedies. By considering these possibilities, we can make a positive difference, even from afar. Furthermore, the time has come to re-examine our priorities. Do we really need a lot of material goods? Are we defined by our possessions? Would it be possible to use alternative forms of energy to avoid damaging or polluting the environment? We can be heroic if we change our ways to protect the environment for future generations. We can be heroic by accepting others for who they are and helping them in times of need, just as the first responders in Texas did.