This is an open letter to those in Louisiana affected by the recent floods. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this disaster. To those who can, please find a place in your heart to help others who are struggling.

Dear Flood Victims,

To the families affected by the recent flood, I send my thoughts and prayers. Living in Louisiana isn't an easy thing. People from other states would call us crazy for even trying to live in the hurricane capital of America, but they don't understand the bond everyone who lives here shares. Down here in Louisiana, we deal with every disaster you can think of, from hurricanes to floods, even bad politicians. Even with all of that, we choose to live here. Mainly because we know that, when the government won't aid us, we will help each other.

With this current flood, it's the same. People in Louisiana are reaching out to one another in order to help save what little they have left. In Louisiana, we are used to losing a lot, but the one thing we never lose is our hope. Hope is what drives us forward and along to the next day. Hope is the foundation of life here. For generations, people here have struggled with the harsh weather of Louisiana. However, you can ask anyone who was born here if they would abandon their homes. You will definitely receive a quick reply stating that that they'll never abandon their homes. To Louisianians, it's not the house or property that makes a home; rather, it's the memories that took place inside that matter the most.

The greatest contribution Louisiana makes to the world is it's rich history and its vibrant culture. we cannot let that die out, so we must stay strong and work through these tough times. I know a lot of you have lost your houses and possessions to the flood waters, but we have to get through this so that the next generation can continue to enjoy the treasures of Louisiana life. If louisiana wasn't here, who else would provide the best crawfish in America, and who would provide America with the rich cultural history and traditions such as voodoo and Mardi Gras? If we stick together, we will continue to be a cultural hotspot for generations to come.

To those affected by the flood, stay strong. We'll get through this the same way. We've gotten through everything else, with the help of one another. Through our perseverance we will rebuild and we will build it better than before. We will continue going as we have countless times before. So don't give up, and don't give in. Things will get better.