This was written after Hurricane Katrina’s blow to the Gulf Coast. I was completely engulfed in the coverage of this devastation. I could not but believe my eyes, I felt so much for all of my brothers and sisters down there. I felt as though the only outlet I had to speak about my feelings was after 5. No one in my office was talking about what was going on, everyone kind of brushed me off when I wanted to discuss it. See I am the only black employee in my office...So here is my frustration…

How dare you say that I should have left;

When all I could do is my best.

How dare you leave me to fend for myself;

Then damn me when I play the hand that was dealt.

How dare you ignore my plea and cry;

When I’m the one who has to look into dying eyes.

How dare you tell me help is on the way;

But when I turn my back you say I shouldn’t have stayed.

How dare you forget me in my time of need;

When you was here with me we were all friends indeed.

How dare you leave me and the kids to die;

but down on Bourbon Street I made sure you had a good time.

How dare you praise the almighty dollar;

But see money wasn’t an option when you yelled out the “Biloxi Holla”.

How dare you call me an animal, and say I am looting the street;

Please help me I just want to eat.

How dare you leave Granny there for the world to see;

I always imagined that she would die in peace.

How dare you stop looking for me, I am calling your name;

You say “looters”, I say “survivors”, we are not the ones to blame.

See, I just wanted to remind you we are still human and ask you one question...HOW DARE YOU?