Please choose the better between these versions (in bold).

[Meryl]

To the hurricane-weary Jewish communities of Florida and the Gulf Coast, these words from the High Holiday prayers resonated more deeply than ever as they ushered in the New Year 5765.The tree branches and debris which littered the streets around the synagogues served as grim reminders that life is ephemeral and should not be taken for granted, and yet, everywhere there was a sense of optimism and hopefulness.

OR

To the hurricane-weary Jewish communities of Florida and the Gulf Coast, these words from the High Holiday prayers resonated more deeply than ever as they ushered in the New Year 5765. Grim reminders that life is fleeting and must not be taken for granted were everywhere, with fallen tree branches and debris littering the streets. Still, the New Year was welcomed here with a sense of optimism and hope.

[Tdol]

I prefer the second- it has more punch.

[Meryl]

Thank you. Much appreciated.

[A.Russell]

I liked the first one. More imagery.