Moving to Higher Ground

My prayers go out to everyone impacted by the catastrophic floods of July 4th and 5th—and to the first responders and volunteers who showed up without hesitation to help those in need.

Surging 26 feet in just 45 minutes, this flash flood tore down the Guadalupe River at 30,000 cubic feet per second—destroying everything in its wake and tragically claiming over a hundred innocent lives on July 4th–5th, 2025—Independence Day weekend.

• In the face of such an unthinkable tragedy, the outpouring of love, courage, faith, kindness, and compassion from first responders, volunteers, and neighbors has been nothing short of extraordinary.

When heartbreak and gratitude collide, love, faith, and kindness will rise to prevail.

There’s no doubt that “heartbreak” barely scratches the surface of what so many are feeling—whether from what they witnessed firsthand or saw unfold in the news. This flood struck at the heart of our shared humanity—metaphor for some, a devastating reality for others—leaving behind a wave of emotional scars that will ripple through families, friends, and entire communities for years to come, as they grieve the lives lost in such a catastrophic way.

As the full scale of destruction continues to unfold across the region—revealing new layers of loss and heartbreak with each passing day—one thing remains unmistakably clear: People and communities have put aside their differences and are showing up with love, faith, and kindness for one another—united in purpose and demonstrating an unshakable resilience and determination in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

On July 9th, Alejandra Martinez of the Texas Tribune wrote:

"Between 2 and 7 a.m. July 4, the Guadalupe River in Kerrville rose 35 feet, according to a flood gauge in the area. The flooded river swallowed roads, bridges, entire RV parks, and structures along the Guadalupe’s banks."

As reported by the Associated Press on July 5th, Michael Phillis stated:

"Former NOAA chief scientist Ryan Maue, a private meteorologist, calculated Saturday morning that the storm had dropped 120 billion gallons of water on Kerr County, which received the brunt of the storm."

• For several years—before and throughout the pandemic—I lived and worked in Comfort, Texas. Having filmed many of the community festivals and gatherings throughout the region, my travels frequently took me from Comfort to Center Point, up to Kerrville, to Ingram, and back.

• I truly loved this area and was grateful to make so many new friends throughout the Texas Hill Country. These weren’t just places on a map—they’re still part of my story, my journey.

Reflecting on the lives lost and the heavy toll on so many communities, one truth stands out: in times of heartbreak, the strength of community—and the love and support it brings—can be seen in every act of kindness.

• As new stories of loss and devastation continue to unfold, my prayers remain steady—hoping this tragedy inspires a deeper commitment to move beyond conflict and division, and instead lead with love, compassion, and kindness.

• Now more than ever, we must choose to be more respectful and caring toward one another, regardless of our differences.

May this tragedy push us all to rediscover our faith in both God and humanity.

With love,

David