The Silver Linings In Katrina’s Clouds [OPINION]

This Saturday marks the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina's landfall in New Orleans. Documentaries and TV specials have focused on the destruction and death caused by the storm both in Louisiana and Mississippi, and while these are the most vivid memories for many, it's important we also remember the positive outcome of such a tragedy.

I was teaching at Vermilion Catholic HS in Abbeville when Katrina struck New Orleans. We quickly learned that we would be receiving students from New Orleans and other affected areas. I was and am still in awe of the outpouring of generosity, acceptance, and support on the part of the young people I taught, but their behavior was by no means rare or unique to Abbeville. People all over Acadiana welcomed family, friends, and even strangers from the Katrina - ravaged areas, in their homes, schools, workplaces, hospitals, and emergency shelters. Many of those who evacuated to Lafayette and the surrounding areas remained here to build a new life and new future, helping to improve and strengthen our community in the process.

I had the pleasure to meet and come to know more than a few Katrina refugees, people I would probably never have had the opportunity to meet had it not been for the onslaught of such a terrible storm. I am grateful to have met these people and for their presence here in Acadiana.