Though a foreigner (Filipino), I have kept a close watch on what's been happening to New Orleans, Louisiana and the rest of the Southern states because of this disaster. I know that there are no words to describe the state of things and emotions you are feeling right now. I know that things are pretty scary, uncertain and immensely sad over what has happened. But allow me to share my own past since I defintely can relate with what you are going through.
I am from the region of Pampanga. A decade ago, we also encountered one of the worst natural disasters EVER; the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. It is hailed as one of the greatest eruptions ever in recorded history. In our case, it was "lahar" or mudflows from volcanic discharge that defaced and literally changed the landscape of our region/province. Entire towns, loved ones, edifices, literally "buried" in one fell swoop. The worst hit became muddy desolate wastelands. Since we were also heavily agricultural, think of the vast scale damage caused which "years" could not have even counted. The large scale displacement of large populations with no home, work or futures faced us. And mind you, this wasn't just a "one-time" event. Every year for almost a decade, the mudflows came down the highlands carried by the storms and torrential rains.
I do not wish to compare my plight with yours, which is both empty and pointless, but I could say we had it tougher. Adding to the fact that are a third-world nation with not even a tenth of the wealth, resources and logistics your govenment could provide.
BUT WE'RE STILL HERE.
Yes, this is the season of feeling pain and aguish and suffering. But season's pass, the hope does not. Take heart. Life will go on. My prayers to all of you folks out there.
I am from the region of Pampanga. A decade ago, we also encountered one of the worst natural disasters EVER; the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. It is hailed as one of the greatest eruptions ever in recorded history. In our case, it was "lahar" or mudflows from volcanic discharge that defaced and literally changed the landscape of our region/province. Entire towns, loved ones, edifices, literally "buried" in one fell swoop. The worst hit became muddy desolate wastelands. Since we were also heavily agricultural, think of the vast scale damage caused which "years" could not have even counted. The large scale displacement of large populations with no home, work or futures faced us. And mind you, this wasn't just a "one-time" event. Every year for almost a decade, the mudflows came down the highlands carried by the storms and torrential rains.
I do not wish to compare my plight with yours, which is both empty and pointless, but I could say we had it tougher. Adding to the fact that are a third-world nation with not even a tenth of the wealth, resources and logistics your govenment could provide.
BUT WE'RE STILL HERE.
Yes, this is the season of feeling pain and aguish and suffering. But season's pass, the hope does not. Take heart. Life will go on. My prayers to all of you folks out there.