On a recent visit to California I was struck by the stories and passion of the people in Napa.

Everyone that I spoke to shared a powerful stories from the earthquake that occured a little over a month ago. The destruction was all around in the certificates on the buildings and in the blocks that were completely closed down.

Several of the main historic hotels were closed as they are rebuilding. The Post Office looked as if a bomb had exploded inside of it and is now surrounded by fences. Amidst all of the physical damage, the stories of resilience and connectedness was predominant with the neighbors and their passion for the city.

I heard a story about one neighbour who ran through houses in his neighborhood shutting off everyone’s gas. Others showed up at businesses helping clean up. Some of the businesses may not ever reopen but the people are showing up each day for one another and the city they love.