In the past week our country has been faced with what seemed like an insurmountable task. After Hurricane Katrina devastated the City of New Orleans, Biloxi and Gulfport, and flooded Mobile, it was evident to us that the recovery effort would have to be unprecedented in the history of our country and at this point, it seems we've turned a corner in our efforts to help those affected by the storm.

Our city and county have reacted quickly and admirably to those who have found their way to our community, giving of themselves and making what seemed like an unbearable situation, at least a little bit bearable for those who have lost everything.

While many in the media are playing the blame game trying to figure out who is responsible for what is perceived to be slow response, we would like to remind everyone that our country has never seen a disaster of the magnitude that we've seen this past week. It's easy for those who have not been personally affected by the events of last week to point a finger, but now is not the time for that. Now is the time to help those who need it, not to waste energy trying to figure out who to blame.

Without a doubt we are the most caring nation on the planet and now is the time to dig deep within ourselves to help those who need it most, not to criticize those who are trying to give the help.