Yes, the USA is fifty individual states, with our own governments, and our own 'way of doing things'. But just like the whole globe is effected by each and every country- Any one American state is effected by the other 49 states, in more ways than one!
Two years ago this August we all watched as Hurricane Katrina not only caused mass destruction but it also drove through the levees that protected the city of New Orleans, Louisiana from the Gulf of Mexico. As the levees broke, flood waters rapildy rushed in and flooded 80% of the city. The water gushed and settled in for months at 20 feet highs all over the city. Nine months later I took a trip to New Orleans to help with relief efforts- the destruction and decimation was endless. The city was a ghost, deserted with haunting debris scattered everywhere. Houses were destroyed and falling in on themselves. Water logged possessions, cars, and homes were the center of the heartbreaking devastation.
I spent a week there with up-teen others who had a compassion and the willingness to serve and help out, but I know that the recovery and restoration efforts were not even dented from that work-week. The recovery process is still underway and it will take many more years to complete the process, but I challenge almost everyone I talk to, to lend a hand, or contribute in some way. Sometimes states forget about their neighbors, and the people within them don't really concern themselves with what other states are going through. But I think we all have a little to give, and whats the point of holding back when helping out can only bring good?
If you get the chance to make an impact, do it, you won't regret it.
-Shirley
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
