In our world, we don't know how to deal for this long with the level of turmoil facing our neighbor-to-the-south. Working for an organization that serves the developing world, it's hard not to be hyper-aware of Haiti and all her pain. It remains a good chunk of my job right now.
Having coworkers there who are also dear, dear friends and who get no break from this nightmare breaks my heart all over again. And finally today, the unknown status of a colleague buried under rubble... changed. His remains are on their way home pending confirmed identification.
It's simply too much.
Jesus said,
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly. (Matthew 11:29-30, The Message)
The developed world is spoiled rotten--us especially. Little do we realize that 99% of the world doesn't live like we do. The fact is, most carry heavier burdens by their 5th birthday than most of us will see in a lifetime.
That's true of Haiti on a good day. For that reason, we can't let her fall off our radar. The road to recovery will be long. There will be steps forward and back. But we must come to her side and stay there.
In the smallest way, each of us can do something to support our tiny tropical neighbor, just 800 miles off our Florida caost, with love, prayer, hard work, hugs, letters, emails, tweets...you name it.
Whatever you do, don't let the media or anything allow you to forget Haiti. Whether you choose to give, help or just send a virtual hug to someone there, encourage this nation and her people.
Just don't forget her.
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