Hurricane Andrew

When government relief was not immediately forthcoming for victims of Hurricane Andrew, the media could scarcely keep up with all of the blame-placing, finger-pointing and complaints. But they missed most of the real story. Help did come, and it was the best kind for the best reason. It came from individuals, from groups, from companies and corporations. It came because people care, and, when they see a genuine need, they respond willingly and generously. It happens every time we hear about someone in trouble.

We have grown too dependent on the idea that the government should solve all of our problems, and, like a parent who can’t let go of a child, the government is depriving people of the chance to do the right thing. When there’s nowhere else to turn, we can and will help each other; we can and will help ourselves.

CAROL MARTINEZ, Upland