After going on a five-day trip to help the victims of hurricane Katrina, I must confess feelings of utter helplessness and sadness. To see the far-reaching impact of the disaster and yet how profoundly impacted each individual life was. My heart goes out to the many more now that do not have a place to call home, nor a roof over their heads. It is also sad that many insurance companies are not considering the flood damage part of the hurricane. Only those impacted directly by the winds and waves are covered by insurance. Many are left to fend for themselves and without government aid or fellow human compassion they would be helpless. But isn't that how it works in a capitalist system based on social Darwinism? The strong survive and the weak are washed away? Hardly, for situations like this can not be explained by social Darwinism or any other political/social/spiritual theory (nor should they be). One should not be caught up in a figure of speech so that the "metaphor becomes an ideology". Bad things happen, that is an unavoidable truth that we can not change. How we respond to them is a different matter. After just getting back from Gulf Port in Mississippi, I can tell you that there is still very much a need for volunteers to help. We went through World Hope; you can check it out here at http://www.worldhope.org/e-letters/sept05e-letter.htm."To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world."-Anonymous
2 comments:
That is awesome that you went to help. Danie and I have been looking into going with Cedar Creek.. they send groups all the time. I appreciate you, Nate... you are truly one of a kind. Just so you know.
Nate -
I'd like to talk politics with you on this. On socialism, federal response to natural disaster / poverty / unemployment, etc. I'm trying to figure it all out...
This time, I'll BE THERE. :)
Thanks for your forgiving heart.
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