What Katrina Left Behind...

If you're anything like me, basketball is a big deal to you. In fact, these days, the most pressing questions are "Who's Portland gonna draft with the top pick?" or "Where's Kevin Garnett gonna play next year?" But in the grand scheme of life, does any of that much matter? Nah, not really. Wherever Greg Oden and KG end up, they'll both be rich and pampered like kings. Our primary concern should be on those without the million-dollar endorsements, those without fat signing bonuses.

How about all of those basketball-loving kids left behind in Hurricane Katrina and Rita's wake two years back? Yeah, I know. Out of sight, out of mind. But in the real world -A world that doesn't give a damn if Kobe plays in LA, Chicago or Phoenix- that's not what happens. A good friend of mine just came back from New Orleans, the home of next season's NBA All-Star Game, with a new perspective on the whole thing. Hopefully, her words will touch you in a special place like they've touched me.