On the morning of July 4th, heavy rain poured down on Kerr County, Texas, and the Kerrville area, reported CNN, describing it as a "once-in-a-hundred-years rainfall."

This phrase seems to be heard too often these days.

"Once in a hundred years," "climate disaster level"... But this time, it is not just a number; it has become a sad reality with 59 dead and 11 missing.

Among them, the most heartbreaking are the children participating in summer camps, especially the girls staying at Mystic Camp.

The 11 missing girls are mostly between the ages of 8 and 13. The moment I saw the news footage of their pink blankets covered in mud, I sat there staring at the screen in shock.

I am a father of two. My eldest is in middle school, and my youngest has just started elementary school.

During camp season, I always have similar thoughts.

"They will have fun. They will answer their phones and eat well."

However, the thought that they could 'disappear overnight' like this accident... no parent thinks that.

Because it is too cruel. Yet that cruel thing has become a reality.

This area has actually been known for "flash floods" for a long time.

In 1987, a church bus carrying teenagers was swept away while crossing a bridge, resulting in the loss of 10 lives.

But now, in 2024, we have much more advanced technology and warning systems than back then.

So why, despite having so many rescue personnel and equipment, did such damage occur?

Of course, this rain is indeed at a "once-in-a-hundred-years" level. But now, there is also a possibility that such rain could come "once a year."

We have already entered a new era. The old standards and safety manuals may now be powerless, mere pieces of outdated paper.

Governor Abbott of Texas declared July 6th as "Day of Prayer for Victims and the Missing."

Former President Donald Trump also stated, "Melania and I pray for the families affected by this tragedy."

Those words can certainly provide comfort. But what is truly needed is practical change that must follow the prayers.

Grief must inevitably turn into lessons.

Only then can we tell our children next camp season, "Have a good time, enjoy yourself."