what did we think was going to happen?

Bombarded with images of the Gulf Coast in the United States. Deep sadness for those who have lost their lives, through death or through the total destruction of their homes, communities and jobs. Can we even imagine what that would be like?

Lately, images of some of those left in New Orleans, looting. Some stayed from stubbornness but most, if the early reports were to be believed, stayed because they are poor or ill or old -- the weak and the marginalized, with no way to leave the city and nowhere to go.

Two questions: when is looting not a crime but a survival skill? More important, we -- those with resources -- just left them there to drown. Are we surprised when they steal in retaliation? Any of us might do worse.

The governor of Louisiana has declared today a day of prayer. I hope they pray on education, training, jobs, medical care and housing for the poor. That way, when the next Katrina comes, there'll be nobody left behind to do the looting.