CHRISTMAS DAY 2010

This morning I woke to find my dear Rhett had made coffee, put the dogs out, and was wrapping gifts. Those bags are heaven sent for him. We had gone to Midnight Mass and this old lady is getting a bit more tired as the evening wears on into the early hours of the next morning. However, it has always been a tradition and I was happy to continue it. Rhett is a bit worried about losing his job at his age. We prayed for that but for much more. We hope that in our community it will be a day of peace today.

As I read the various news reports and examine the listings on the websites of our local television stations, I was disturbed. The comments made in many instances were quite disturbing and hate filled. For centuries this hate has existed simply based on issues of ancestry. It continues today and we see in some instances a self hatred that is destroying members of our community. Young people brought up in a way of life that has led to self-destruction. It has been aided by the lack of family units, poverty, lack of education, lack of self-esteem, and being taken advantage of by others.

Today, the problems have crossed all ancestral, social, and economic lines. Our leadership has been complacent for decades and seeking only the vote based on ancestral lines instead of looking for a solution to the problems that face this city. However, as we talk among outselves, those who call themselves members of the brigade, we still look for a future that can be brighter for all. We look for ways to solve the issue of self-hatred, the return of family values, the return of business to our city, the availability of good jobs, and for what we call the Nouveau New Orleans. We cannot walk in many of the marches because of our health and yes because of the fear of where they are located.

This morning, in the darkness, we checked to see if all was ok as we left the church. As we got home, again we checked carefully because of the fear that permeates all citizens' lives. Why should we have to live in fear? WHY? We have allowed it to continue because of the lack of our leaders. We listen to Mr. Landrieu and others and we ask why his father did nothing about this when he was in office. Why other mayors had not done so either? Rhett still believes that Dutch Morial could have done more had it not been for his personal life and his fighting with others who were determined to displace him in office. His son was worthless. However, Dutch, was something different and had great possibilities. http://lasoutherngent.blogspot.com/2009/03/courage-to-make-true-difference.html

Now, this morning, I pray again for a new beginning for this city, a rebirth, a newness that will once again can call the Queen City of the South. A Nouveau New Orleans, is the call of the Velvet Glove Brigade - our group of friends created over the years. We still believe and hope that we live to see it or the beginning of it.