The photos out of New Orleans are fascinating. They look like scenes of a country at war… Plumes of smoke, helicopters, big military trucks packed with refugees, herds of families traveling the empty highway… journeying on foot for miles in search of shelter. Part of me wishes very much that I was there just so I could have experienced the brunt of it firsthand. Just so I could witness the chaotic aftermath…and to be able to help people.

I’ve been through a couple small disasters, and the “day after” was always the most exhilarating….When the plodding clockwork of daily routine has stopped, and people are left doing the three things people do: Helping others, contributing to the chaos, or merely surviving. “Community” becomes a reality.

But I’m counting my blessings. Spent last night holed up in a little house with a crowd of friends and some beer, watching the wild wind and rain outside. No classes today, and the weather was beautiful. Just leisure time spent assessing damage with friends, and meeting some of the interesting refugees that’ve taken shelter on campus.
There’s a beautiful pitbull living with its owner in Goen Hall. Children were bouncing on a trampoline set up at the bottom of the stairwell. And a smiling lady was letting her chickens run around on the lawn behind the library this evening. They followed her everywhere…it was cute.

I am feeling helpless, though. Friends and family are all safe, but will be without power or water for a long time. Biba’s house was just a few blocks from the beach. We have no way of finding out how her property fared (All her paintings!)
I just so wish I could be there… But life here returns to normal tomorrow.
A little absurd to think that I have homework to do tonight. Interesting how well distance contains chaos, huh?