Waters are receding, streets are drying and Austin residents are breathing a sigh of relief.

Though “2004 was worse” was uttered more times from those who can remember the disaster than can be counted, for those affected by flooding and even residents who have never experienced a flood of this magnitude before, this can still be a very devastating time.

For one day, the state was focused on our little corner of Minnesota as the three watersheds climbed up and over their banks in a short period of time. And just as quickly as they rose, they fell, and residents counted their blessings while rushing to the rescue of others less fortunate with sandbagging and offers to help in any way they could.

Some business owners, residents and especially farmers are going to be feeling the effects of the flood for a long time, and they will need our support — whether it be from the city, county, state, nation or even with a simple phone call from a neighbor.

Regardless of how or if we were affected by the 2008 flood, it will be an event never to forget when we reflect on our time in Austin.