[StBernard] "St. Bernard - As I see it" - Hip Pics

[Westley Annis]

"Hi --jer--, Yea I thought it would be left in place as a landmark.  I wish
I would have
known earlier that the paintings or photos were being sold.  I want the 11 x
14 if we can find who has it.  I may take more than one.  Someone must have
access to it, please let me know so I can post my e-mail and or cell number
--Gene B."

Jer Responds:

Hi, Gene,

Well, knowing there was a "democrites" in government at the time, including
a liberal governor and N.O. mayor (I cannot recall if the Cross stood just
into the St. Bernard Parish Line or N'awlins territory. This which would
have made the "landmark" in Orleans Parish--Nagin's Chocolate City
battleground-- though I recall it was just into da parish line. This Cross
would signify to them an infringement, constitutionally. That is, a
non-compliance with the separation of church and state--although JR was in
favor of the cross at Shell Beach's memorial, perhaps.

I personally would love to shove Jesus' holy cross down the liberals'
non-religious esophagus to get their attention. 

Anyhow, like most in da parish, we embraced a "warming blanket" effect (as
compared to a "chilling effect") after it was set in place. I am wondering
whom we should thank for the placement strategically at that horrific moment
in time? Someone placed it there, and I'd like to know more of the history
of why, who, date, and purpose. To me, (and not to take away any love away
from the memorial at Shell Beach), that cross' symbolic meaning was more
overall applicable to those who died in Katrina. Also included are those who
were displaced, those who had to abandon their homes, community, church,
clubs, friends, work, or otherwise. That emblematic cross spoke volumes
indeed: 

--that we St. Bernardians who have faith in the Almighty (and those who
balance themselves on the fence faith-wise) are left feeling assured while
entering or exiting da parish--anyone affected--(even at some moment in
time) subsequently will be OK. I KNOW it is true for me, for I prayed so
hard (and still do) that I personally could almost experience Jesus'
resurrection into the clouds. A virtual uplifting. It's strange, but that
out-of-body experience was so unnatural to me as a human that I was uplifted
with a hope and love that is so unexplainable per diem.

Therefore, I am inspired in a spiritual sense to acquire this piece of
remembrance via the photo of that event. We cannot tell if any likewise
future event may or may not ever be duplicated. However, in some minute way,
that disaster brought me out of a funk more so than into one. Today, I am
stronger physically and spiritually. I believe that the Lord gave me this
inspiration that makes my life more worthy. The experience basically
"jaw-slapped" me in such a humbling, pleasurable way that my life has
changed meaningfully. Ironically, how a dramatic transference can evolve
positively after a tragedy. For only God, I believe, can turn a catastrophe
into a triumph!

At any rate, if and when we can find a great print at a decent price, I'm
sure a mass production (those of more than 500 prints) can follow. I
remember taking an in-vehicle snapshot but the speed probably made the photo
misaligned for print or otherwise. Therefore a more acceptable photo offered
unselfishly would be preferable to a commercial endeavor sought to
capitalize on the tragedy. Such a noble effort it would be to make it
affordable to anyone inspired by the crucifixion scene. 

God bless anyone who can help those who suffered the most and can achieve
this additional miracle in memorial to the afflicted.  

--jer--