This week the nation has watched my state endure—and survive—a devastating natural catastrophe named Harvey. We’ve seen images of people being plucked from their rooftops, saved from rushing waters by human chains and hoisted by helicopter, holding their babies. Shock, sadness and overwhelming disbelief are understandably common among the residents. We’ve also seen resilience, hope and sheer determination as volunteers brought their fishing boats, kayaks and large trucks from all over the nation, with an “I just have to do something” mindset, working themselves to exhaustion.

For the first time in months there’s been no finger-pointing. No one can blame “the other side” for this force of nature. People have rushed to Texas to help their fellow humans with no questions about political viewpoints, no queries about religious beliefs, ethnicity or social status.

It’s just been all for one and one for all, the way the Good Lord intended for us to act. As hard as it’s been on the people of Houston and the Southeast Texas area, some good has come of all this chaos.

When disasters like this hit, our nation pulls together. Unfortunately it doesn’t take long to revert back to the mudslinging and tantrum-throwing ways of our current society. How soon will politicians, celebrities and “activists” start throwing daggers again?

It seems the “regular people” of this amazing country have it right: When people need help, go to them and do what you can. When people are in dire straits, open your wallet to support them.

It goes back to the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Oh how nice would it be if everyone lived that way?

The restoration of Houston and the surrounding areas will take years. My 83-year-old aunt, who lives close to one of the bayous, still hasn’t recovered from the April, 2016, flood. Her house was not even close to being fully repaired. When her home was flooded with four feet of dirty, rushing water last week, she was rescued through a hole in her roof and carried to safety. She will not return to the home where she’s lived for 45 years. There are thousands more stories like hers.

I hope you’ve already followed your heart and found a way to support the victims of Hurricane Harvey. If not, think about what it would be like if you were suddenly hit with a crisis. The help you would receive from strangers would likely restore your livelihood. Give to the charity of your choice, many listed and vetted here. On their behalf, thank you, from a fellow Texan.