Here in the South, we are proud of our hospitality. Even when
we are kicked in the teeth by a category 4 hurricane and almost
total destruction of several cities, we will not let that keep
us down. I wish instead of showing all the negative surrounding
the storm, the media would show all the good that is happening.
I can't say for sure what is going on down in New Orleans, but I
can tell you what is going on here. Here, churches, businesses,
and even children are reaching out to those that have been
displaced by the hurricane.
A couple from New Orleans who were supposed to be married this
weekend in New Orleans were married yesterday at the colliseum
shelter in Jackson. A local dress shop provided her gown and
the bridesmaids their gowns; a tuxedo shop provided the tuxes;
the cake and food were brought in to celebrate; and after the
wedding, the couple was taken by limo to a steak dinner and a hotel.
A little 6 year old girl whose birthday was Friday was given a
pool party complete with party favors. Her mother said that
seeing her daughter smile was the best thing she could receive.
A group of little girls set up a lemonade stand to help raise
money to help the victims of the hurricane.
Our church fed 85-125 people staying at the shelter at the church
next door catfish, hush puppies, cole slaw, fries, and banana
pudding last night for supper. This was the third meal we'd served
them. At breakfast that morning, one of the evacuees after getting
a cup of coffee was trying to put money in the coffee donations
bucket our church uses for members to help cover the expense of
the coffee. We had to tell him to put his money away, that bucket
wasn't meant for them.
These are just a few of the stories I wish the national media
would show. This is the true South. We're proud of our state and
grateful for what we have left and for what people are doing for
us. If you come to the South, be prepared to hear "please" and "thank
you" and to be offered a tall glass of tea. Just know that that tea is
going to have a huge heaping of sugar and a whole lot of ice.
I also thank all of you for your prayers and concerns. I have also
seen where a lot of you are planning on sending donations of
supplies and money to the Red Cross and Salvation Army. Thank you,
they will be greatly appreciated and greatly needed.
Jennifer