Wiser and Sadder

Since Katrina, we’ve all seen more change than many humans experience in their lifetimes.
Since Katrina, we know what only a few select human beings know, that an entire world can be destroyed overnight.
Since Katrina, some of us cry easily. Others never cry at all.
Since Katrina, we’ve learned how to scream in the face of injustice.
Since Katrina, we’ve gotten used to the fact that our screams may not be heard.
Since Katrina, we’ve accepted loss as an inevitable part of life.
Since Katrina, we are all wiser and much sadder.

Donna Bonner is a native New Orleanian and a
cultural anthropologist now in Austin TX.