One Year Later

A year after Hurricane Katrina, I'd like to share two thoughts:

First, the media has gone hurricane-crazy creating a 'boy crying wolf' mentality. And then outsiders wonder why some residents stay home when a storm hits...

Second, shortly after Katrina, my college fraternity was one of many philanthropic groups that collected donations to aid those affected by the storm. We sold rubber bracelets (similar to the yellow LiveStrong) for one dollar. One dollar to aid your fellow Americans.

Some people gave $5-20 but they were a rare exception. I has astonished how many would pass (professors and professionals, mind you) saying, "I've given so much already." This was especially appalling when they were carrying a $4 cup of coffee. One dollar to help Americans in need.

Shortly after, I penned these words: I believe in people, but when I say that, I'm speaking abstractly. Actually dealing with people reduces that faith.

I'm reassured when I hear private citizens have donated almost $5.5 Billion and 500,000 citizens did volunteer work in New Orleans. Many more helped to raise funds, collect food and medical supplies, etcetera.

The government's promise of $110 Billion for reconstruction is seen as dubitable (rightly so), though concerning municipal projects, it should be helpful. I'm sure there will be plenty of 'overhead' in this governmental adventure.

Related:
3 Fundamental Functions of Government
Katrina's Misconceptions
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Economic Indicators
Katrina's Misconceptions, Pt. II