As we drive around this small part of southern Louisiana, we are struck by the extreme economic deprivation here.We see poverty on a level neither of us has ever experienced before.
We are fortunate to come from a relatively well off country and though poverty exists on a certain level in NZ, I guess it is all relative.
Since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and yes even Ike, all back to back, the small communities here have not been able to bounce back. FEMA has poured gazillions of dollars into the area to make sure people have housing, but many of the homes we see are really not fit for habitation. I would like to be able to photograph them, but out of respect for their occupants, I dont feel I can give you an example of what I am talking about.
There are many depressed people sitting on their porches...no jobs=no money. They may receive some federal aid...food stamps etc, but that doesnt provide you with dignity or fix your house. I know it is more complex than I understand right now, but it makes us realise just how fortunate we are...and very thankful that we have the ability to do what we are doing.
We knew so little about these southern states before we visited. They are not the places many international tourists come to. We did meet some French people from France, today at the Tabasco Factory, and yesterday at St Martinsville, but other than that, I guess the Tourist season (make that summer) is over for this year. That means it is the perfect time of year for US:) we dont like crowd, and especially not in the extreme heat.
The weather has cooled off somewhat, but today was hot and humid. There are thunderheads looming and we have had the odd sudden downpour, but otherwise, we just sweat...and sweat. We have found that the only way NOT to sweat, is to sit VERY still, outside, and do nothing. The minute you move, you sweat, lol.
People think we are nuts looking for a hot coffee or other hot drink(tea??)..but they dont realize that it is more thirst quenching than a cold icy drink.
Perhaps the most interesting part about visiting anywhere in the world...is the people. You can look at museums and art galleries all you like, but the real place doesnt come alive without the people. Reading about them on story boards fills in the blanks, but actually talking to someone, getting their history, their family background etc, makes the place come alive through their eyes and experiences.
People are generally generous with their time, their expertise, their family histories and showing us where we can find more...things, people, experiences et al. They dont mind that we dont buy their goods...they give us a coffee if they have one, or as was the case today, he made us one especially:) Thank You Earl at the Railway Museum in Abbeville! you are a gem...
They generously impart their local knowledge, and recount stories of long ago. We love that they also give their time and expertise to restore the past objects/buildings etc and that they value their past and their collective history.
Is it just when we get older that we do these things?
We love that the local culture is preserved through the language, the cooking...oh yes...the food!!!!, and the family pride in their name.
We also love that those who have plenty, have built conservation movements for various things. Wildlife, birds, gardens, buildings etc. There is always more that can be done, but a beginning is a wonderful thing.
No comments:
Post a Comment