It was with relief and sadness that we left Venezuela. Getting back home is always good, but this time we did it knowing that many more people were suffering in the country than when we had arrived. We were very lucky -- we experienced a few airport delays, but nothing serious.
The Red Cross has estimated that between 20,000 and 50,000 people have died in the Venezuela floods since the day it all started, our arrival date, 15 December 1999. Many bodies are buried so deep in the mud that authorities don't think they will ever be dug out. It is unlikely that the next big rain storm will be different, because Venezuela lacks the money and infrastructure to build decent housing. And it is better off than most South American countries.
Sitting at home in the US, it is easy to forget the problems that many people of the world face. It is important to remember that North Americans are not alone; we owe it to others to help in whatever way possible.