If you can’t feed a hundred people, then just feed one.Mother Teresa

All of you have probably been hearing about the devastationin Haiti. Many of you may know that I am from Haiti, and still have much familythere. My predominant sensations during the past week have been shock anddisbelief. This poor country has been in such a terrible state for so long –certainly since I was born. It is hard to comprehend yet more damage anddestruction.

While I’ve been paralyzed in my philosophical ponderings andmy worried suffering, the world has mobilized. I’ve been inundated with contactfrom people near and far, wondering how they could help. I hear the numbersabout how much money has been raised, and the various support organizations divertingall their resources to this situation. I continue to be surprised by theattention from the most unlikely places – my business coach, my alma mater, myhealth and wellness colleagues – none of whom have any connection to Haiti.

I always felt that Haiti was forgotten, even by Haitians, sothis outpouring of concern and support leaves me in disbelief. I don’t recallthis much attention EVER being given to a natural disaster. Then, I think,maybe this is not just the ground shaking below us, maybe this is the shakingloose of our conditions of apathy, self-absorption and separateness.  From the most unlikely place and event, I amreassured of the goodness of people. Really, I’m blown away by it all.

I believe we all have a part to play in this situation. Forsome of us, it will be the ultimate offering – to stop our lives as they areand give everything we have. For many, it will be finding something tocontribute – time, money, supplies, skills. For most, I hope it will be a callto recognize how blessed we all are. We stand on solid ground, with our homesand loved ones, observing this tragedy from afar. But we always have theopportunity to express our generosity and kindness, even if just to the personright next to you.

 As Deepak Choprasaid, “Perhaps it is through the people of Haiti that a new world ofcompassion, love and healing will be born. This is their sacrifice and gift tous. “