As I was watching the September 11 memorial, I couldn't help but think of the united Spirit of America after the attacks, and how we're responding to those affected by Hurricane Katrina. It warms my heart to see us helping our brothers and sisters in need...now, if we could just have that spirit all year long, not just in times of disaster...we'd have it made.
... And the Gulf Coast, which lies broken by storm and flood, plays a sad song within my chest. This pain I feel, these scenes of grief, echo once more; they look like tears I cried on that dark, dark day in September, just four years ago. It hurts. It hurts... I understand the connection - personal storms of tragedy that make us one.
In our time of need, you were there with open arms, giving yourself unselfishly, donating time and manpower, with compassion and many prayers. It's only right we help you now: it can't begin to repay the kindnesses showed, but it's a start. Favors, returned from me to you. All I ask is, PAY THEM FORWARD.
(c) 2005, Karla Dorman.
Want to review or comment on this poem?
Need a FREE Reader Membership?
Reviews of "KATRINA: Favors, Returned"
Reviewed by Kate Clifford (Reader)
Reviewed on September 13, 2005
Wonderful write and ending. yes if only we could learn to be like that at all times!
We do what we can and what our hearts prompt us, Karla - even if it is "only" to pray, the untold, unseen acts of solidarity and self-giving will not be fully known in this lifetime, I guess. Daily, we are being FORCED to look outwards and inwards, to reorganise our priorities and what we TRULY value as worth living for on earth. To give actually usually means that you receive far more, in that Godly paradox that tends to happen. And to be on the receiving end when you need it - well, there are no words to express... in fact, it can be very difficult to handle if you're not used to it. Bless you and thank you always for holding high the candle by which we see... LOL Kate xx
Gracefully said, Karla. People need our help and we should give what we can. This is not done in the anticipation of them doing the same for us but in the anticipation of them helping another somewhere down the road.
Take care,
Sherry
If only...There are many who are opening their hearts and pocketbooks and more, then there are the political mudslingers
using this tragedy to make points for their agenda. It's sickening!
Excellent write Karla...
Reviewed by Richard Christopher Suarez (Reader)
Reviewed on September 12, 2005
That's what it's all about ...love around and around
and helping each other always ....we are supposed to take care of each other and your poem says this well.
peace',
Rich Criso Suarez
Reviewed by Jerry Bolton (Reader)
Reviewed on September 12, 2005
There may be money pouring in for Katrina, but there is not harmony, the usual race-baiters are out there doing what they do.
Timeless wisdom and advice on the art of living for today’s young and old: The art of thinking, the art of loving, the art of working, the art of leadership, the art of growing old.
A new translation by Sergio E. Serrano of this inspirationa
Potential meets purpose for great accomplishments in the life of a young student.
A young student is interested in learning coding programs. He applies and is rejected because of his age. He does not give up and tries again and is accepted. Eventu
Share
Print
Save
Follow
Outstanding message in this write; very well done! BRAVA!!
(((HUGS))) and much love, your twin, Karen Lynn. :( >tears <
We need to act in favor all the time not only when disaster faces us!!
love Tinka
peace and love, Carole
Take care,
Sherry
God Bless
Michelle!
using this tragedy to make points for their agenda. It's sickening!
Excellent write Karla...
and helping each other always ....we are supposed to take care of each other and your poem says this well.
peace',
Rich Criso Suarez
Carmen :-)
There's the real message. "Pay it forward"
If we could only adopt that philosophy, then miracles could happen all the time. Beautiful piece my friend.
Peace and (((Hugs)))
B