RELIEVED OF KATRINA

Defying nature’s fury
we hunkered down
and waited out the storm

Sighing relief by sunset
we went to bed
and dreamed of clearing skies

Waking to rising water
we climbed the stairs
and hoped for no higher

Fleeing the rising dark tide
we stretched above
and moved to the attic

Cursing the cold wet darkness
we pried the roof
and clambered for our lives

Seeing chaos at daybreak
we grieved for all
and gave thanks we were spared

Anticipating rescue
we searched the skies
and watched for signs of help

Passing time on the rooftop
we huddled close
and talked of rebuilding

Growing thirsty and hungry
we would grumble
and complain of delays

Waiting longer--into days
we grew desperate
and despaired surviving

Looking up, at last they came
we rose as one
and numbly whirled away