Slow on the up-take

Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere.  The Haitians have gone through decades of hardship, environmental degradation, violence, instability and dictatorship.

Natural disasters in the past have affected Haiti as well. Unbeknownst to many Americans, four hurricanes slammed Haiti’s shores in 2008. There were deadly storms in 2004 and 2005 and massive floods in 2002, 2003, 2006 and 2007.

These are just some of the recent disasters Haiti has gone through. During all of this, most of the world had its back turned on this disadvantaged country.

However, help from all around the world rushed to Haiti after the most recent catastrophe rocked the small island. The United States, Canada, Britain, Australia, Spain, India and numerous other countries donated money, effort and time to bring relief to the Haitian people after the 7.3 scale earthquake.

In the wake of this disaster, many people have come to the realization, for the first time, that Haiti desperately needs our help.  This earthquake has opened the world’s eyes to the pain that the country is facing.

However, the Haitians needed our help long before the earthquakes, and many people didn’t even know it. 

I understand that Haiti is in more distress than ever now, but it is disappointing to know that it took such a horrific disaster for people to realize that Haiti needs outside help. 

Many Americans have the attitude that, if a country’s suffering is not directly affecting them, then there is no reason for them to do anything about it. People need to open their eyes and understand that these people, no matter how far away, are our neighbors and fellow human beings.

It is my direst prayer that the love and compassion being shown for Haiti now will continue to grow. I hope that, over time, people will not forget what happened and how much help will continue to be needed in Haiti and around the world.