It's been nearly three months since Hurricane Katrina ripped through the gulf coast like an angry mother who had just lost her only child...funny analogy, don't you think? Seeing as how that bitch wiped out hundreds of children, broke up thousands of families, killed thousands of men and women (most of whom 
were impoverished, disabled, or elderly), and left nearly one million homeless?? Most of the links I saved over the past few months are no longer available, thank goodness really. There are parts of this tragedy that I don't want to relive, nor do I want you to either.
I stumbled across this RN's blog following the hurricanes, and it still brings me to tears. I remember stories from the March of Dimes local chapter repeating the same issues faced by this woman. No one was in charge, yet everyone was in charge. If you wanted something done, you had to DO IT YOURSELF. It's during times of tragedy that we have the opportunity of seeing the beauty of the human spirit. When others turned their backs, there were those who opened their hearts and made a difference. I am talking about ordinary citizens. From doctors to car mechanics, police officers to taxi drivers, nursery leaders to the ATF...everyone was on the same playing field the day that storm hit. I was disappointed in National Disaster Organizations (like the one with the red cross on it? yeah, that one), I was disappointed by the organization "in charge" (like the one with Government stamped all over it? yeah, that one), and yet...I am so overjoyed at the response of local citizens stepping up to the plate and making things happen. I am grateful to those who didn't take "no" for an answer. I am grateful to those citizens who got up when they were knocked down. And I am grateful to those Louisianans who are refusing to give up the fight. Welcome home.
The March of Dimes has committed to Hurricane Relief efforts, and I have been so impressed by their hard work. I have seen the difference they have made with my own eyes. They were even gracious enough to let me help. We are all here for the long haul, and no matter what...
WE WILL NOT FORGET.
That was so moving. Great post, it's so easy to get caught up in our own daily BS. Thanks for bringing me back to reality.
ReplyDeleteIt's unfortunate that for so many it's out of sight out of mind, and if it isn't happening to THEM than it's not happening. ugh.
ReplyDeleteJuat because it isn't splashed all over the news anymore, doesn't mean there still isn't a tremendous amount of pain and suffering still going on.
Thanks to you and all those who have helped at ALL levels. Great post and reminder for everyone.
I was just watching nightly news where they were doing a special on it and how much of NO has not changed or been picked up at all. Man, it just sucks so much. My heart still goes out to you, and everyone from down there.
ReplyDeleteGREAT post, dear...so well stated! You are right, as well, it seems it is all to easy (and quick) for those of us not directly affected to forget.
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