Katrina exposes the ugly side of America

The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in the Southern U.S. is exposing the effects of today's prevalent entitlement mentality. Do you remember accounts of disasters from decades ago, hearing how everyone was pulling together to get through the crisis by supporting each other? Not anymore. This week, while watching news of people crowding in the Superdome and New Orleans Convention Center, everyone seemed to be upset because they haven't been helped by the government. What happened to picking yourself up and finding a solution? What happened to counting on your neighbors, friends, and family for help?

Someone pointed me to an article that describes other countries' reactions to scenes of how the hurricane victims are dealing with their situation. Once again, fuel for the further decline of our reputation in the world.

Welfare and the other socialism of today's America has changed the public's mentality to expect the government to provide medical care, food, shelter, and all other needs. I dream back to the days in the U.S. when people hit by a catastrophe would be gracious to receive my aid or donation rather than simply expecting that half of my paycheck should be stolen by the government to fix their situation.

I understand how difficult it can be to recover from a horrible event like this. But you are arrogant and rude (and a thief) if you demand I (and all American taxpayers) pay to help you put your life back together. Perhaps you shouldn't have built your city on a lake, or at least you should have evacuated when the storm was on its way. Now don't sit helpless down there; get up and figure out a plan. There are plenty of compassionate people out here willing to help if you just ask rather than assuming you're entitled.