Heeding Warnings

Watching the news this morning I was surprised and dismayed at the number of people in Texas who didn't heed the evacuation warnings when Ike came to town. One would think that when the National Weather Service issues a "get out or die" warning people would listen. Though I am probably not one to talk.

When it comes to warning signs I often have trouble paying attention. For example, a couple of years ago I was in Joshua Tree National Park. Some friends and I were wandering through the Cholla Cactus Garden and taking pictures. Though the signs clearly indicated that the wise move would be to stay on the trail, I didn't listen. The result is pictured below.

But when it comes to life and death warnings I listen and listen clearly. For example I don't stick my tongue in electrical sockets, I don't look down the barrel my handguns, and (for all you Jim Croce fans) I don't "mess around with Jim". To me the Ike warnings were on this level. The National Weather Service didn't issue a "get out or experience a little discomfert" warning, they issued a "get out or face certain death" warning. Newscasters everwhere were talking about how bad this was going to be. Property was going to be destroyed and the lives lost of those who stayed was not worth it. Life is just too valuable.

My sympathies go out to all who suffered through Ike. They will be in my thoughts and prayers over the coming days. I encourage everyone to do likewise. Peace out.