September 2005
The past weeks since my last President's message have been filled with images of the Gulf tragedy. I will only comment on my observations. As we go about our personal lives and our professional endeavors, a U.S. City has been devastated and will never be the same. More than just the streets and buildings were impaired; the lives of the people who inhabited them were changed forever. As I watched the scenes of desparation, I cried and I watched for an inspiring scenario. I watched for people who were genuinely helping others and for gratitude from the victims. I saw all that but I saw more. I saw people at their worst and people who appeared to have given up. I related to those folks who didn't want to leave their homes. I cried for the children who were separated from their families.
General Honore was outstanding. When he insisted that the National Guard turn down their weapons that were pointed at citizens, I was reassured that there would be compassion. I don't know if I can judge some of the behavior. I have never been without food and water and have never had to watch children, the elderly and family members be in need of restrooms, healthcare, food and water. I know that I was ashamed to see the looting, and bad behavior. I was ashamed to see the government lacking in response. It took so long for some of the help to arrive. I couldn't believe the bodies were floating through the streets. The residents of Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi have experienced such tragedy. My heart goes out to them. I want to help everyone. I am so encouraged to see some of these citizens relocated and to see our fellow Americans help and open their homes to them. Can any of us help? I am asking that all of our membership provide help in any way we can. The Red Cross and Salvation Army are working 24 hours a day to provide support. We can help and we can support our fellow Americans. My company is providing help. My family has sent money to the Red Cross. I see my friends contributing. My heart is full as I continue to watch CNN and listen to NPR. Families are being reunited. Newly homeless citizens are being relocated.
This is an opportunity to embrace the true idea of "One World" and "Love for Humanity". Today is the anniversary of 9/11. The memories of that tragedy and the current threat of more terrorist activity is so heavy on my heart. I think of the words of Senator Barack Obama, "There is no Black America; There is no White America; There is no Hispanic America; There is the United States of America" !! There are so many good people in this country. There are so many good people in the world. I am holding the thought that Good will prevail and compassion will continue. Please help as much as you can.
The September meeting of the St Louis AITP is the last Thursday of the month. We are still accepting applications for our student scholarships through September 15. Please plan to attend and come to our regular location in West Port. The Holiday Inn West Port is being renovated and our meeting that is usually on the third Thursday will be held on the last Thursday of September. See our announcement inside this newsletter.
The St Louis AITP Chapter is awarding two $500 scholarships and SyllogisTeks, is awarding a $500 scholarship. Please come to our October meeting (Past President's Night) and participate in the awarding of the three Scholarships, and the honoring of our past presidents.
"Compassion is our greatest strength"
The Dali Lama