RETURN TO PASS CHRISTIAN, MISSISSIPPI
submitted by Yvonne (“Trail Boss”) Smith

Why would a person return to Pass Christian, Mississippi? I began to think about this question during my second visit, as hundreds of college students continued to converge into this already crowded space. I asked myself:

Would one return for the creamed gourmet food?
Would one return for the uncomfortable, sagging cot?
Would one return for the not-so-private bathroom facilities?
Would one return for the nocturnal choir concert?

NO, none of the above! I returned because of the people. One, I wanted to be part of those special people who so generously give of their time and talents to those in need. And more important, I returned because of the people in Pass Christian who inspire me. These people, who have lost everything and have survived one of our nation’s worst disasters, display a hope that is contagious. They live in the midst of devastation, destruction, and debris with smiles on their faces and a faith in their heart that Pass Christian “will be back.” They are a persevering people who modeled for me a spirit of hope and resurrection living. Because of them, I hope to return again, for they renew my spirit. They give to me much more than I can ever give to them. Bless the people of Pass Christian and all of the Katrina survivors.