America the Helpful

September 11, 2005

Sounds a little corny, right? But true. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, I’ve personally witnessed people at their best – being helpful and giving. Maybe it’s because I live in Houston, where we realize we may be next… or maybe it’s because this is a post 9/11 world where it’s easier to mobilize people together for one common good. I was reminded of that too, since there are so many specials on TV today – seeing it still moves me even after all this time. I also read an article the other day in the Wall Street Journal, reminding everyone of the last natural disaster of this scale in the US – the “dust bowl” that wiped out many farmers in the 30’s. The “environmental refugees” of this era did not get help, and most were not welcome in the new cities they called home. I am grateful that things seem a little different now, that those from New Orleans and Gulfport have a better chance to find new lives – wherever they want to go.