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Conservative Compass Blog
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Written by Bob Sordahl
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Sunday, 17 January 2010 |
The earthquake in Haiti is one of those things that come along from time to time, that reminds us how trivial most of our problems really are. It is truly a cruel joke of nature that takes everything from those who had nothing to begin with. As usual, when disaster strikes, the American people and our Government have responded with massive shipments of aid in the form of food, water and money. Ironically, many if they receive rations, will eat better than they did before the quake. It is hard to imagine such poverty. That is the reality for eighty percent of the Haitian population.
Having said that, let's remember that within our own Country, large numbers of citizens live below the poverty level. Many face their own day to day disaster, lack of adequate food, loss of shelter and the emotional toll of being unable to provide for their families. We just experienced a holiday season with 17% real unemployment, food banks stripped to the bare shelves and charity organizations exhausting resources. The generosity of the American people seems boundless with regard to foreign relief, and we should do what we can, but it is important to remember our own citizens as well.
It is also important to remember that charity is a luxury of strong economies. You can't give what you don't have, and those Countries that would love to see the American economy crumble, would do well to ponder where aid might originate in the case of their own natural disaster. Who do you call, France? Tell that to the people of Haiti.
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