Archive: Opinions

To The PointThe 7.0 earthquake that rocked Haiti over a week ago continues to wreak havoc.  Thousands have perished.  Homes, shops, churches, clinics, and governmental buildings have been leveled by the destructive force of the quake.  Aftershocks measuring as high as 5.9 on the Richter scale add to the uncertainty of survival in this the poorest of nations in the western hemisphere. 

Haitians are no strangers to hardship.  Years of political upheaval, civil war, violence, and poverty have plagued Haiti for years.  Before the earthquake, they struggled to survive against all odds surviving on “mud cakes” and the meager rations they received from charitable organizations. 

With most of the Haiti’s population hungry, injured, homeless, and destitute, the entire world watches and wonders how much suffering these people can endure.  One may also wonder if there is any hope for this island nation. 

The answer is a resounding yes.  Though estimates of those who have perished in the quake reach 100,000 with as many injured, relief is getting through to those who need it.  Each day brings hope as clean water, food, and shelter is provided to the survivors in Haiti.  Block by block, rescue workers working along side Haitians are performing heroically to save those still trapped beneath the rubble from last week’s disaster. 

The footage of rescue workers finding a new-born infant alive and relatively unharmed was an occasion for renewed hope for those still lost or missing.  Relief organizations have established make-shift hospitals and clinics providing emergency relief and life-saving operations to many in need.  In addition to efforts on the ground, The US Navy Ship, Comfort, has arrived taking the injured to the floating hospital just off shore.   

As far as it seems from us, the effects of the earthquake are being felt here in Lansing.  The Lansing United Methodist Church has been active with its missionary outreach in Haiti for nearly a decade building schools, working with the poor, and offering training to many.  As news of the quake reached our homes, many wondered if friends or fellow workers had perished in the disaster.  Among the dead are two Methodist ministers from the United States who were working with the poor in that country. 

Civic, religious, and governmental organizations have appealed to the citizens of the United States for monetary support to assist with rescue and recovery efforts.  So far, $300,000.00 has been donated by Americans.  Other countries are also participating in this global effort to ease the pain and suffering for the people of Haiti. 

The good folks at the Lansing United Methodist Church are also asking for your support.  If you have not had a chance to donate, you will have an excellent opportunity on Saturday, January 23, 2010.  The Church is sponsoring a Pancake Breakfast.  Proceeds and donations from this event will be directed to the Haitian Relief Fund.  Become part of the global effort to ease the pain and suffering of our friends in Haiti.  Buy a ticket, write a check, and know that you did your part.  And that is to the point. 

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