I personally think that Paul was not too far off the mark of what a lot of people already feel. Perhaps his letter to Haiti was a little unreasonable, but outside of that he had several valid points. Too often these days, countries, cultures, even towns and neighborhoods feel it is someone elses responsibility to give them aid. Often times these people look specifically to the US and our governments for that aid. We are now expected to give aid to anyone who asks for merely due to precedence. The problem is that our government and many people in this nation feel it is our responsibility to help everyone else as well. I would prefer that we use that money within our our borders first. Primarily with regard to vets. They gave a great deal, many their lives. I think that we should aid those returning from war,and the families of those who don't first and foremest with assistance before we look beyond our own shores.
Paul Shirley referenced two specific tragedies, one domestic, one international in his blog. I really need to find it. His letter to Haiti is easily found, but that is only a portion. Here is the entire blog:
http://www.flipcollective.com/2010/0...-paul-shirley/
Do I agree with the letter, only in part. Wording could have been much better as it is quite judgemental. He does, however; make valid points. We should not be expected, it is not the responsibility of the US, to automatically give aid without so much as a thank you.
Another point he made was Katrina. New Orleans is below sea level, on the shore line. A problem in and of itself. Blame was placed on the government for not maintaining the levees (sp?). Inhabitants claimed they needed aid, but did not heed warnings for days before to evacuate. Then, when placed in the stadium, the occupants of that city pilaged like neanderthals, killing, raping, and stealing from each other. Then the blame went to FEMA for not responding quickly enough. Perhaps they did not, I do not know, I wasn't there. I do remember occupants being warned for days to evacuate, many did not, but many did. I feel the situation could have been handled better. However, again, I was not there. We do need change, but how we go about that change is difficult to determine. I am not saying we should cut off aid, not at all. But lets try to take care of ourselves and accept some personal responsibility for our own failures before we blame someone else and EXPECT someone else to help.
Paul Shirley we hardly new ye
