Leave it to Mother Nature to put everything in perspective, reminding us that we are all human beings who have far more things in common than we do differences.

The scenes from Houston and southern Texas during Hurricane Harvey have been absolutely heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time.

The vignettes of courage and sacrifice show the goodness of human nature and has helped many of us put aside — at least for a little while — the petty differences that were consuming us in order to focus on the common cause of helping the millions of Americans facing this unspeakable tragedy.

This is not a Texas crisis. It is not a southern disaster. It is about helping our fellow man overcome adversity the likes of which many of us have never faced.

Showing true compassion for those who have been killed or have had their lives turned upside down is a critical measure of our nation’s character.

The outpouring of support is heartwarming, spanning from the tip of Maine to the Pacific coast to the beaches of Florida and all points in between.

Although we are very blessed that we do not face many natural disasters here, Kentuckians are ready to lend a hand to help make a difference.

The community has rallied with a variety of local initiatives.

Kentucky Bank has opened a secure fund to accept donations that will go to assisting hurricane victims and purchasing much needed supplies.

Regardless of where you bank, all you have to do is visit any of the Kentucky Bank locations in Central Kentucky including the Winchester branch and let a teller know you want to make a contribution.

All the money collected will be sent directly to the American Red Cross, which will use the funds as needed to help the hurricane victims take the first steps toward putting their lives back together.

“This is one of those situations where you can’t help someone by pulling them from the water or even holding their hand, but you feel like you just have to do something,” said Darryl Terry, Central Kentucky Regional President of Kentucky Bank. “We are only as strong as each community. Texas is a part of that community, just like Kentucky is a part of that community because we are all part of the United States of America. It just makes you feel better to help other people. If not you, then who?”

Other businesses and organizations are looking for ways to give back, too.

Clearwater Pools is packing a trailer to send to Texas. The trailer is parked at 810 W. Lexington Ave. Anything nonperishable is accepted. Clothes are not being accepted right now.

Organizers hope to fill this trailer by Wednesday.

Clark Countians who want to help can also donate directly to the Red Cross at redcross.org or seek information about volunteer needs. The Bluegrass Chapter that serves Central Kentucky is actively helping in recovery efforts with more than 40 volunteers and staff members making the trip to Texas.

We will come together as a country. We will rebuild Texas. In the process, we will become a stronger, more unified nation than ever before.