As The Waters Rise
                        By Taylor Van Son

The rains came down from heaven’s skies

Catching some quite by surprise

They watched in shock as it did rise

Around the world we heard their cries

From Katrina’s fierce anguish many fled

Leaving behind the lives they led

Throughout the city the waters sped

Around the country our hearts then bled

They did not know their impending fate

Had no idea that on this date

Multitudes in the waters would be forced to wait

And for too many help would come too late

The country watched in anguished rage

Our people like animals trapped in a cage

Young and old, no matter what the age

Parts of New Orleans ripped from history’s page

Dark helpless faces from housetops cried

Others trapped in attics as escape they tried

The city that was their home and also their pride

Swept away as on Katrina’s waters it did ride

Blame has been cast to and fro

People now have no place to go

Rescue efforts were much too slow

And some true colors then did show

What to do as our beloved city dries

Our nation now watched by distant eyes

Raise our voices, "Lord please hear our cries!"

Join together to save our very worthwhile prize

Help has come from shore to shore

People live in the battered shelters no more

Tragedy has opened brotherhood’s door

People cry and care from their deepest core

New Orleans was ravaged, it is true

The best now comes forth from me and you

To do what the Lord would have us to do

As the waters rise, our faith does too