Observations from Afar

Watching the reaction of humanity to the disaster along the Gulf Coast of the U.S. prompts me to wonder "how thin is the thread of civilization" holding us all together. All day today, I have listened to news reports that said the shooting and anarchy was not like America. I posit it is the true side of the United States of America. The poor are left to their own devices after those who were rich enough to drive away in their cars to safety did just that.

This is the price and the cost of unbrideled corporate capitialism operating without due regard to the needs of the entire community. One commentator over the last few days stated all the anti-trust laws against monopoly and economic oligarchy have been repealed or muted. The destruction and the tragedy is too much and yet, the inhumanity of the operating systems in the United States has been revealed. These same forces of economic stratification are operating in Canada too, let's not fool ourselves.

Walking in the Davie Village tonight, I saw a man casually throw litter on to the street as he walked along. A proverb repeated by my grandmother came to mind, "tis a dirty bird that fouls it's own nest." I see this as an example of the same sort of disregard for community and a lack of self-respect. What is operating in our culture or civilization that promotes the break down of civic pride and responsibilty as well as care for others? I am not so sure that Vancouver would remain civilized for very long in an emergency like that in New Orleans. I hope and pray, we never find out.