We're Headed South
Seattle, U.S.A. - September 06, 2005
For the last 8 months, we have been preparing our hearts, minds and bodies to go around the world helping others in need. 
AP Photo/Eric GayHowever, due to the recent events of Hurricane Katrina, our immediate focus has now shifted to the many thousands of individuals in great need on our own soil.
As a result, we feel compelled to leave this week to help with the hurricane efforts. This decision was literally made in the last 24 hours. Logistically and financially this does not make sense, as our departure date for the world trip is nearly a week away. But the decision was a no-brainer for us. We cannot abandon the great need that exists.
While we have a few remaining items regarding the formation of our non-profit organization we feel an urgency to go to the disaster area, and go now. We will begin our "random acts of kindness" from New Orleans rather than Central America, and we will make an attempt to document our experiences from the disaster areas on this site.
carl said...I see my previous comment on this issue was removed, despite the fact it was good advise. The government is requesting people LEAVE the area around New Orleans... your efforts would be better spent donating to the Red Cross and other disaster relief agencies. The National Guard is in charge of the operations down there and they want residents leaving the area... they certainly don't want new people entering the area. If you want to do some good... do it from Seattle. Going to New Orleans is just adding 2 more people who the National Guard may have to rescue.
Carl said...To follow up what I had previously posted, they are now forcing people to leave the area in New Orleans. They are making people leave their homes and evacuate the city. The National Guard is in control and is leading the efforts. If you really want to help, donate to the existing disaster relief egencies that are helping the New Orleans refugees in Houston, etc. Or if you want to help in person, go to Houston and try and help the refugees that have been moved there. There is nothing to help rebuild. What they need are places to live, money, food, clothing, and jobs. If you can provide that, do so in Houston and other shelters... New Orleans itself is being evacuated by force.
963 said...I think your hearts "to GO" are just wonderful. I will be praying for the beginning of this journey as you allow the Spirit to guide your steps. Too often we talk about helping or we just give money hoping it will make things better. Your "random acts of kindness" have already "awakened" me to journey out in my own life to reach out to people. I'm sure you know that New Orleans will be a place you can't actually get into but there are many cities around NO that need peoples love and touch. My prayer for you guys as you begin this huge journey is that you take "Joy" with you. That every where you go "True Joy" would be shared. "God is looking for those who do not consider it 'radical' but instead 'normal' to give up everything they have and everything they are for the glory of God in this world" -Passion
JK said...While Carl makes a point and it is quite true that most people should stay put, he may not be aware that both Patrick and Lee have Search and Rescue training and would not be arriving uninformed and untrained. To stay in Seattle continuing to plan a trip around the world while people here in our own country are suffering would be to blatantly disregard the true mission of The Traveling Guys and Global Awakening. To place the trip on hold yet again could not have been an easy decision. To put those in need before themselves is admirable, commendable and a testament to their commitment to the journey on which they're embarking-making the world a better place. I applaud and support your decision-you both have my upmost respect and appreciation for being who you are and for simply doing what is right. Be safe.
Josh said...I agree with JK. Since Lee and Patrick actually have experience in this area I'm sure their help would be appreciated. Those who should not head down there to help are those well-meaning people who honestly don't have the experience or understanding of the dangers and responsibilities involved. On top of that, I'm sure Lee and Patrick aren't planning to head into the actual city as it's being evacuated unless they are asked to.