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Blogs by Dr. Ronald D. Bissell
Who are We? 9/4/2005 5:57:53 AM
This past week has been one of great challenge for our country. For the past few years we've been focused on the terrorist threat from abroad trying our best to avoid another 9-11. We've been at war in the middle east and find ourselves stretched in many ways. Then, even with warning, a hurricane of epic proportions rips through the southeast leaving hundreds of thousands stranded, homeless, and emotionally lost.
I've watched the pictures of the struggle people have and are going through in Louisiana, Mississippi and the entire region affected. I've looked with awe at the power and destructiveness of one of nature's greatest storms. I've seem the worst of humanity with looting, reported shootings, and raping of innocent women. I've cried over the pain that so many have endured. But in spite of these inadequacies of mankind I also see the heroes coming from all over the country to aid and to help in any way those in need.
I see rescuers working tirelessly trying to save and heal lives. I see doctors and nurses, fireman, police, soldiers of all kinds working hand in hand to do whatever they can to make life possible amid all the confusion and disarray that such a tragedy creates. I hear the political name makers spew forth their negativity accusing this person or that but still the homeless stream in and the rescuers continue their relentless pursuit of life.
What a mixture of emotions such as moments of elation followed by sorrow are felt by all who witness this struggle against nature. Finger pointers try and find blame thinking that men are at fault but only increase the pain felt by those in the midst of this recovery. I choose to see the heroes who risk their lives each day. I choose to see an America that is responsive to the needs of others. I choose to feel grateful for the volunteers who in spite of personal hardship leave their homes from far away to help instead of criticize. I choose to be an American who sees the good in people and realizes that the scenes of looting and other despicable behavior is only caused by the few not the many.
I see each day the works of man helping man and just look with awe and gratitude to be living in a country that holds and values life. In spite of all the horror and destruction brought on the people in the affected areas I feel deep within that good will prevail and they will be strengthened by the rebuilding of their world. Out of tragedy will come miracles we as yet do not know and I trust out of sorrow we will see an America to be proud of and as a people we will become more respectful of others and thankful for each day we are given to make a difference in this world.
I encourage you to do your part in this struggle and lend a positive example by helping if you can or by giving generously to those who can do so much for so many. Doing is the American way and the way to healing our nation.
