Anyone is welcome to submit a Guest Blog Entry to torontomike.com. I received the following entry earlier today.
Well it seems that I also have a strong opinion of the situation in New Orleans. Yes, what is happening is horrible, tragic and will forever leave an impact on the lives of those who have survived it but I am so damn tired of hearing people complain about how the government isn't doing enough to help the people suffering right now. I realize they are in need of clean water, food, clothing, shelter and some kind of protection from the looters and "hoodlums" that have taken over the area. All that is obvious. But to complain that nothing is being done or that everything is happening too slowly is absolutely maddening.
The populations of First World Nations are ridiculously spoiled. There are areas of the world that NEVER have reliable access to uncontaminated water, where starvation is a daily part of life, where a roof that ISN'T made of thatch is an absolute sign of luxury and where the ONLY order is that held up by warlords who rape and kill whenever they see fit. I understand that waiting a few days, even weeks for food and water to be brought in is incredibly difficult but for entire societies to live with these problems for generations is the real tragedy.
I realize that I myself am a hypocrite for saying these things and then turning back to my TV or driving to the mall in my car but seriously, to all those freaking out over the situation in New Orleans. Rip off your blinders, look at what other people have to go through EVERY day of their lives and get a fucking grip. Help is on it's way which is much more than can be said for others in your current position.
/rant
Kristyn L.
Let me see if I properly understand your argument. Because third world nations often suffer long periods of time without safety, clean water and food supplies those suffering in New Orleans this week should stop bitching? That's absolutely ludicrous. Actually, insane is a better label for your warped logic.
The United States of America is the richest country in the world with the most powerful armed forces. New Orleans is a city in the continental United States, not part of the third world or a country ruled by "warlords who rape and kill". It took more than four days after Hurricane Katrina struck for the National Guard to arrive with food, water and weapons. The planet's only superpower is clearly stuggling with the aftermath of Katrina and you reckon we're over reacting because "other people" have to endure this "every day of their lives". Just as two wrongs never make a right, I hardly think citizens of the United States (or Canada, for that matter) are "spoiled" for having expected a quicker response to these horrors.
In my opinion, it is you who needs to get a grip.
