To Whom It May Concern,\r\n\r\nAs I reflect on this fourth year anniversary after Katrina, I can truely say that it has been filled with much lost and a lot of gain. However, for the sake of peace of mind, I have learned to be grateful.\r\n\r\nAt first my initial reaction was to be angry at everyone because I felt cheated. Cheated of the life and customs I have grown to love and cherish and this reminds me of the lost I continue to heal from.\r\n\r\nI lost the church family that I had been a part of for years because they relocated to another city. I lost my cousin in a small town outside of Dallas, Tx. where she relocated. All we know is that she got really sick and died shortly afterwards. I lost my closest sister and brother-in-law in a car crash in St. Louis Ms. This is where they relocated after Katrina. The list of lost goes on. For the first time I understood what it meant to be homeless, hungry, and uncertain about life.\r\n\r\nHowever, I am grateful. I am grateful that my children and my husband survived. I am grateful that dad and my other syblings are doing well. I am grateful for the new career that my husband and I share here in this small town that is empowering people across the country.\r\n\r\nAs i continue to reflect. I know that I love New Orleans and it will always be my home because it is where my heart is and every time I come home, I feel gratefulness.