Day 4

Today we worked a few hours in the Uptown Station (UMC) and assisted the director, Marva in preparing for a large volunteer group of college students for Spring Break. She was so happy to see both Milynda and myself come and volunteer since so few black volunteer groups come to New Orleans to help in the post-Katrina clean up. In the four days that I've been here, I have been inundated with similar comments whether it's from relief workers, non-profit leaders or from the citizens. They all want to know "where are my people?" Although it is wonderful to receive help from people of other ethnic groups, it is affirming to receive help from your own.

After assisting Marva with the light industrial duties, we headed over to N. Claiborne Avenue and joined another team already in progress. This team of college students were from Wesleyan College in West Virginia. Their team leader, Angie, was so friendly and immediately welcomed us. The students were very diligent in their work. In the brief time that we worked, we fellowshipped and hopefully made some connections.

This whole experience has been one of growth and has shown me that there can never be any limits placed on who and what God will use to carry out His will. I've been challenged this week to question ideologies that don't make sense and also to remain firm in the word of God. But on a lighter note...we did travel through the Garden District. Walked in Audubon Park and ate at the elegant Emeril's restaurant on St. Charles. It was a very ritzy restaurant and I felt like I had to whisper at the table because it was so quiet. Anytime my tea was running low or if anything spilled on the table, the waiter was quickly at my service. It was an interesting experience...I felt like I couldn't be myself but it was interesting. Then I went to the French Quarter and toured for a bit and picked up some souvenirs along the way. Hopefully my mother will enjoy this New Orleans Jazz cd I bought for her.

After touring and hanging out in the French Quarter, I am exhausted. I didn't get to see Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie...maybe next time. I must get some rest and prepare for my 12 hour journey back home to Carolina. I am ready to go home now.