So we had a big hurricane,
Katrina by name.
She slammed the Gulf Coast
and left many without a home.  Lives lost.
Who can we blame for the poor preparation,
for the incompetence, the planning diverted to war’s cry,
the warning sent years before about the need to prepare, blown?
I ask you to help those suffering as I asked for tsunami relief.
Will you listen?  Do you care if it is closer to home? 
Flee the city, head for higher ground, seek safety.  That gonna do you?
I think you misplace your regard for well-being.
What we really need can only be found in loving-kindness, compassion, gladness, and peace.
The suffering we experience sounds the clarion bell calling us to seek awakening and freedom from suffering. 
Help those in need and help yourself by meditating on the loss and need for refuge from all disasters.