Two months ago today

November 7, 2005

Dear Friends,

Two months ago today, we arrived in Wisconsin. To be certain, we never expected such a wild ride. On Sunday, August 28, 2005, we drove from our home in the suburbs of New Orleans to what we expected to be part of the accepted routine of hurricane evacuation. We left, along with many others, in an orderly fashion on Louisiana’s premiere use of the contra flow, a method of travel in which all lanes of the interstate are turned outbound. We moved slowly and silently, only the vast expanse of red taillights ahead of us. It is a visual that haunts my memory.

My mother, dog, and I were taken in by a dear friend in Chicago the first week. The following week, we headed North. We’ve been very fortunate to have many dear friends these days to take us in. Many others offered homes, storage, gifts, clothes, furniture, food and support. It’s all been so overwhelming. And so appreciated.

When we arrived, we weren’t certain what happened and what the future would hold. There is a passage in the Scriptures about taking up another’s burden, which is what you have done for us. In a time when shock and despair are the only emotions we felt comfortable with, you allowed us that luxury while limiting impending anxieties. You gave without question, without recognition, without asking for anything in return. Indeed, I certainly appreciate your offer of respect and humanity, not advice.

We are strangers, yet you have made us your neighbors. At this time, as I go through the lovely items, gifts, and other donations, I am continuously touched by your humanity. I appreciate your understanding, your kindness, your generosity, your respect.