It hits home pretty fast. Anyone who has been through a hurricane can tell you stories about the fury of Mother Nature. Having been through two hurricanes myself, I could tell some stories, but I won't. This message is dedicated to those unfortunate souls in the Gulf Coast states who are dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
No economic indicators or rising petrol prices will offer solace to those who have lost loved ones. Looters and carjackers will go unpunished in a p lace where society desperately needs order and a true sense of community. Homes and businesses will be rebuilt over time, but the wound left by Katrina will take time to heal. It will heal
We will hear comparisons on the news to other hurricanes, death tolls in Iraq, and the World Trade Center attacks. We've already heard comparisons to the recent tsunami destruction in the Indian Ocean. Still, no comparisons can be made that will make it easier to restart the lives of so many.
I appreciate the coverage our media gives catastrophic events, however, the coverage alone will not be enough to get help to those in need. I applaud the hurculean efforts that power companies, the Red Cross, the National Guard, the Salvation Army, and hundreds of other volunteer organizations and individuals will put forth to help rebuild the homes and lives destroyed by this huge storm. My hat is off to you. I wish I could do more to help.
You've heard it everywhere already, but If you have not done so already, make a donation to the Red Cross or your favorite charity. Make sure you let them know that it is for the folks afflicted by Hurricane Katrina. Find a local charity that is taking donations of clothing, furniture, food, water, or household goods and donate the stuff to people who need it. Not for the tax deduction, but because you can. We're a land of plenty, right? It's time we extend our hands a bit to those desperately in need. Individually, we may not have much to give, but if we all give a little bit, the result will be enormous.
This weekend was chock full of fun! I'll expound on the activities soon, but just as a memory jogger for myself: