I just finished the book Zeitoun by Dave Eggers. The story follows Abdulrahman Zeitoun, a Syrian contractor living in New Orleans, before, during and after hurricane Katrina. It was amazing to me to learn how one man can be so courageous, generous and intelligent and yet be trapped in the ridiculous crisis management that took place during this tragic event. The bureaucratic brutality was just horrifying to read when I really heard nothing about this living my daily life. I don't know if I was just closing my eyes to the whole situation at the time, but now my eyes are wide open. This is a true story and I'm sure there are many other stories like Zeitoun's out there that should be heard.
Coincidentally, I have also been watching the new show Treme on HBO that takes place in New Orleans three months after hurricane Katrina. The show follows the interconnecting lives of several struggling musicians and locals in their beloved city. It's really an amazing show and has once again enlightened me to the issues that took place in my own country. Definitely check out the show. It's on Sunday nights at 10pm. At least listen to the opening song...it's amazing!
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