[ In the past Richard Vargas has submitted poems to Xispas. He sent us the following opinion piece he wrote on the unfolding tragedy caused by Hurricane Katrina. ]

The images and reports of the devastation and loss of life from our recent natural crisis left me feeling numb and helpless. Those feelings have now given way to shame and anger. Our federal government’s inability to respond quickly to Katrina’s aftermath, and the unnecessary loss of life that has been allowed to happen is inexcusable. The sloth-like response and inept planning apparent at the top leadership levels of the current administration reflects the same “head in the sand” posture prevalent in how the war against terrorism has been waged. Isn’t it ironic that the same leaders who have recklessly gambled with this country’s future and resources by investing in a campaign of “nation building” in Iraq, will now have the opportunity to give us a taste of their bitter medicine as they begin to put into practice what they have failed to accomplish in Baghdad?

The people of this country will respond and react as always… pulling together and giving from a bottomless well of determination and goodwill for our fellow citizens. But we count on that guy in the White House and his staff to provide the direction and guidance. One has to wonder how our government would be able to respond if (heaven forbid) the Dept. of Homeland Security’s worst case scenario would come to pass.

Yes, the president’s supporters will rally to his side, declaring “shame” to anyone criticizing this debacle. They will shout down anyone daring to point out the obvious. Those of us who see through the spin and doublespeak will be accused of trying to turn this disaster into a political gain. The truth is any leader, no matter his political party, no matter his race, no matter his religion, should be held accountable for this drastic failure in the face of grim adversity. When it happens with someone else’s country, we can live with ourselves. The idiotic attempts by our president and his cabinet to rationalize their actions overseas are laughable, but when it involves the death and suffering of countless fellow citizens here, on our own shores, then it’s time to hold someone accountable. If not now, when?