When the earth shook in Haiti three days ago, I was glued to the television. I have been on the other side of the island in the Dominican Republic, but not Haiti. I loved my time in DR and get to have some more in the near future. I enjoy the idea of service and caring for people when dollars do not matter. On humanitarian missions whether Army sponsored or private we can give and smile and be authentic to those who are less fortunate. I often feel like I get more from giving the service than those who I give dental care to. I love the whole idea of service to others and yet in the U.S. charity or giving of ourselves often confuses relationships or brings imbalance to a friendship. I have more than once fixed a tooth and said "no charge" and it was harder than just accepting payment. Pride is a funny thing- how can we let someone do something kind for us and just be gracious in a simple fashion. Instead we can get stuck in expectation and the thought of payback. Then we lose the whole idea of generosity or kindness.
Gratitude is the key to abundant life. Say thank you often and thank God that you are warm and fed. I see the news in Haiti and the reporters speak of 100,000 dead. Who knows how many people are suffering a demise from illness or infection, people who matter and seek love and comfort in their lives. Think of the psychological and social losses. I only need to look in my mirror to see a blessed man.
I believe our challenges include never giving up. Lance Armstrong stated, " Pain is temporary, quitting is forever!" I feel strongly that we as human beings need to stop our own judgement and hatred. We need to be loving and tolerant of others views and choices. We should pray for those who suffer. I cannot imagine the suffering and sadness in Haiti today. Look at your life, look at your kids, and thank God that it is not you, trapped, suffering or missing.
Happy 2010- make it a year of gratitude and kindness. It is truly a blessing living with abundance and comfort.
