Sunday, January 11, 2009

A New Perspective

Today we arrived in New Orleans. The trip was long, and slightly crammed with 9 people in the van. Most of it was spent in the rain, but after all of the driving, stops, and continuous debates over music, we made it. For the first half of the day after we arrived in camp we were able to catch up on sleep. The camp is set up well, with plently of beds, never-ending hot water for showers, and available working bathrooms. In the afternoon we toured the Lower 9th Ward. This was truly and eye-opening experience. What struck me was the utter devastation that was still evident years after Katrina hit. There were homes that were rebuilt here and there, but for the most part, the area was in ruin, with the spray pain telling the story of each home and it's inhabitants still present. Seeing this barren land and wreckage only further energized me to want to get to work for the next week and to help make a difference in these people's lives. Tonight we will have our orientation and learn where we will be working. I am looking forward to this week and will be sure to continue writing of my experiences. Signing off for now.
-Ryan Gale

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