Friday, September 02, 2005

Disappointment

This isn't going to be popular.

It's not politically correct, and it's not what most people want to hear. But after reading much of the coverage of the tragedy in New Orleans, I can't help but feel disappointed in the people there.

The front page of the newspaper today detailed how, in only a matter of a few days, the residents left behind in New Orleans turned to lawlessness, looting, rape and murder in the absence of authority. There were accounts of rescue boats and cars being hijacked and gunshots being fired at helicopters bringing help.

At a time when there was a desperate need to come together to support their neighbors, the residents of New Orleans turned against each other like a reality TV version of Lord of the Flies.

The events that continue to unfold in New Orleans are horrible. Those of us who don't live there can't possibly comprehend the magnitude of the situation. But there have been many situations in our country's recent past that have shown the strength of American people when faced with great adversity.

Unfortunately, this isn't one of those times. It is my sincere hope that the opportunistic political sniping and finger pointing that has already started will be put aside in the interest of sheer survival.

1 comment:

  1. I agree with your post. It is absolutely insane. Makes you wonder why people aren't coming together to help one another...even with the little amount they have to salvage... I like to believe that as human beings, we are all humanitarian by nature... The finger pointing has to stop...but I also think the delay in relief is also a result of what is happening on the ground there....so when wondering about others actions, before you judge, maybe they should look at their own as well...it is nothing short of a tragedy. My prayers go out.

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