I have been away and just returned to the news of the terrible damage by 'Katrina". For those of you who live in those parts of the US my heart goes out to you and I want you to know many people here in Australia are shocked and saddened at the devastation!

Please know, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this terrible, confusing time. I will continue to pray for strength and courage to face
the tough times ahead.

Your kind words are appreciated, as are your thoughts and prayers. Thank you.

Thank you for your thoughts. I do not live in an area that was hit by Katrina, but many regufees have now arrived in my home state of Texas. Right now I am now watching CNN and I am happy to say that the people they are interviewing tell us they have received a warm welcome here in Texas. Some will go back eventually, but sadly, many will be forced to stay here in Texas as they have no homes or jobs to return to in N.O. I wish they were staying here under better circumstances, but I hope they will have a good life here in Texas.

EmBee, you are kind to send your well wishes. I only wish everyone would echo your thoughts...

I hadn't realized the situation in New Orleans and other Southern cities on the Gulf Coast was this bad! As usual, the poorest are the ones suffering the most. My heart goes to them.

How kind of you, EmBee. It is much appreciated.

Thank you EmBee, for your kind words. I live in Miami and went through Hurricane Andrew, and although my house and so many others in my area were destroyed, we all had insurance and were able to rebuild. When I see the pictures of these poor people in New Orleans and the Miss. coastal communities, though, my heart breaks. The poor seem to suffer more, and these people have no place to go.

Thanks, EmBee. America has more friends than we realize sometimes. Fortunately, I don't live in the areas devastated by the hurricane. We're all watching the news and wanting to help. Giving cash to your favorite charity is the best option right now.

Hello again EmBee, what a nice thread. And thank you for your loving and carying thoughts. Even some of those that do not live in the Gulf States are having anxiety attacks so to speak as they can not reach their loved ones and have no idea what their situation is. Your good thoughts and prayers are so appreciated. Best wishes to you.