September 14, 2005 — I had the distinct privilege last night of sleeping on the floor of a church sanctuary not too far from the Mississippi Gulf Coast. A few pews up, a group just arrived from central Florida were comfortable around the pulpit. Over by the organ, a couple from Tennessee nestled like mice in a nest. And, the guy snoring near my feet was from North Carolina. Dozens of people slept on that floor, in tents outside, and in campers pulled up in the parking lot. We were just a few of the regular folks who have been greeted with extraordinary courtesy, hospitality, and kindness. The uniting bond we share is the simple desire to serve those so devastated by the wrath of Hurricane Katrina.

Perhaps it's the courtesy amidst this tragedy that has so taken my attention today. At intersections with light poles bent all directions and only temporary stop signs present, there is an orderly flow of traffic - cars, trucks, military humvees - each stopping and generally taking care of the other driver. It's people sharing a greeting though their lives have been turned upside down. Folks opening doors for each other; sharing food and extra bedrooms; being handed a cold bottle of water to cool you from the labor of a 92 degree day; the great gentleness two nurses took to clean and bandage a scratch on my leg so it won't get infected.

And, then there's the chain saw crew that was a little late returning to the church last night. The crew worked all afternoon in the sun to remove the trees that had rearranged Rufus' roof, porch, and garage. Rufus was absolutely not content to say "thank you." It just wasn't enough! He insisted that a little Jack Daniels whiskey was the right way to demonstrate courtesy to his new friends that had put just a bit of order back in his life. It all worked out OK, the chain saw crew was ready to head out again in the morning!

On a very personal note, I will tell you that I have found very little these last few years to be proud of as an American. What I have glimpsed in the last week, however, is nothing short of incredible. Truly, a piece of our national character has again been demonstrated. It is our overwhelming generosity shown to others faced with great tragedy. It is part of who we are as a people. It is a wonderful characteristic, and this day I can say again that I am proud to be an American!