The Virginia Informer

Hurricane Katrina

By John R. Kennedy

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        Hurricane Katrina may have been one of the worst natural disasters in American history, but there are still many lessons that can be learned from it. Americans failed one another in many respects during the course of the disaster. It could be seen on television and in the newspapers: a war going on in New Orleans. Rape, murder, and theft were rampant. And during all of this, a government stood by without leadership or recognition of its duties. Out of the mess of this tragic event, people from across the country have managed to get involved and help. This grassroots organization might be the only successful effort during the course of the disaster.

        William and Mary has even offered a helping hand by allowing students from the affected disaster areas to continue their education here, so long as they are from Virginia. This is a noble addition to many other financial actions that students have gotten involved in. Americans in Williamsburg can help Americans in New Orleans and this reflects the generosity of this nation. We are linked by more than a national flag or central government. We owe one another more than federal tax money – we owe our time and our talents as well. Allowing students from the disaster areas to learn here is a great idea because we have shown that not only our money can help them – our time and talents are here as well. They can come here and receive a less hectic environment than that of the disaster area and that is worth more than simple cash donations.

        In disasters like the one in New Orleans, pessimism and selfishness cannot be a knee jerk reaction. Leaders of all kinds should attempt to show the strength of the human spirit in such difficult times. The first thing we must do is focus on how we can help the afflicted. Given a chance to help those in need, one cannot take that time and use it for themselves. Whenever I see poor leadership in times of crisis, I am reminded of Lord Denethor in the Lord of the Rings. When the war on his city began, he crumbled under the pressure and told everyone to look after themselves. This same cowardliness happened in New Orleans and on television.

        Out of bad situations can come good responses. It is a hopeful sign for humanity that people from across the country are willing to help those in need. One can only hope that the afflicted will come out of the disaster with the knowledge that each and every one of them is empowered with gifts and talents of their own. Waiting for a government to provide your gifts and talents to you is futile, especially considering that their government failed them. In the failure of government came success for the people, and that is where the power truly lies.

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