THE NARRATIVE ARC
Volunteering in New Orleans Was a Lesson in Resilience
Unfortunately, I still had a lot to learn about building
Sweat dripped from my hairline down my back as I crouched uncomfortably under the half-constructed house’s foundation. Me and another volunteer were securing the flooring from below.
Never the best with a hammer, I tried to keep it steady in my sweaty palm while I swatted upwards at the nails. My fellow volunteer was moving twice as fast.
Finally, my grip gave out and the hammer fell. I ducked just in time to avoid smacking myself in the face.
It’s possible I’m not cut out for this.
I want to contribute
Two years after Hurricane Katrina, I was looking for something to do with my leftover vacation time. I’d been to New Orleans before and I’d fallen in love with the city and its people.
There is something about New Orleans that captures me. The food and music are incredible, and its spirit is old-school genteel yet fraught with shadows both worldly and supernatural.
I’ve traveled to a few cities that are getting back on their feet after hardships. Investing tourist dollars in these areas feels good, and the locals…
