It’s never easy to look at a disaster as showing a way forward, but given the outpouring of love and support over the past two weeks for folks living on Wheeling Island and other low-lying areas in the region impacted by Ohio River flooding, we certainly do have better days ahead.

Again this past weekend, Island residents prepared for the river to rise. And while it did crest above the 36-foot flood stage early Saturday, the flooding ended up about 4 feet below last week’s level. There still were residents impacted, but it could have been much worse had it hit the initial crest prediction of 39.8 feet.

The good thing, though, is that even if it had crested at near 40 feet, residents were prepared. Volunteers showed up in force Friday to help those who thought they would be impacted remove furnaces and other appliances from basements — items that had just been reinstalled. The positive energy Friday and Saturday was incredible to witness.

As we noted last weekend, don’t believe the talk of us being divided. Events such as this show that, despite our differences, we’re all united in ensuring the best for each other. It’s one of the things that makes Wheeling so great. Thanks to all who helped those in need over these past few days.