You're right - it does bring a tear to the eye. And sadly I don't think people in power relate to that, because few will have been there themselves. Arkady - I bet your kids are lovely, resourceful people. I don't know what to think about Katrina - it seems hard to believe that it's totally a race issue, or am I being naive? The difference, if this had happened to e.g Hollywood, is that rich people have the confidence and connections to kick up a fuss and get things done. And more rich people are white, or more white people are rich! Being poor is refusing invitations to socialise/go anywhere, with a well-used excuse. Being poor is living on your children's left-overs, and smiling modestly when people say how slim you are. Being poor makes you personally stronger, but socially weaker. Have just started reading your blog and your compassion is heart-warming. Ellie