I braced myself in preparation to hear the critics who usually profess a staunch outcry against Nations like Haiti. The negative reasoning given for it's impoverishment is usually numerous, and verbal attacks from the "civilized world" against the Country has been relentless in the past. Positioned to partake of this bashing WITH the Haitians, i crouched in humility, ready to suffer accusations alongside my distant ancestral race of people.
Accustomed to this battering, i steadied myself to withstand again, attempting to brave this latest barrage, disguising any show of excessive flinching, for i have been conditioned throughout the years to overcome these types of pronouncements of doom by any denigrators. This earthquake would serve as another occasion to bear the reproach of our forefathers.
To my bewilderment, as i scanned the reporting media, i began to sense the softening of hearts and heard merciful words of acceptance from the same lips that formerly cursed these indigenous people with whom i share my roots! Testing the waters, i peered out from under my invisible cloak of shame in time to witness a taste of kindness from genuinely caring people!
(Picture courtesy of Sheree Mick Henry)
It was at this moment in infinity that i beheld people of all races, creeds, cultures, and backgrounds merging together as one for the cause of humanity. There was charity in the atmosphere, as defamers of President Obama let go of stones, and the right and left wings united in harmony for the urgency at hand. Assault weapons were abandoned as enforcers of Pro Choice and fans of Pro Life life clenched hands in truces to Choose Life! Democrats and Republicans united on one accord, and differences in beliefs were put to rest! A MIRACLE WAS IN THE MAKING! Forgiveness abounded! Racism Abated! Love Prevailed!
Could this be the beginning of peace amongst us... OR will we revert back to our separate corners of the ring in our resolve to take up where we left off.... once this crisis is out of danger??
Today, January 18, 2010, many in American and some across the globe have taken time to reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's service to mankind. While we are in remembrance, we have the power to KEEP HIS DREAM ALIVE by continuing in the work we have wrought together in turning our hearts toward Haiti.
(Image courtesy of Bing)
The rich and the poor meet together, the LORD is the maker of them all Proverbs 22:2
© Copyright 2010 Diane Rice - All Rights Reserved
Thanks for your post Diane. I hope this support and rescue continues on to be something that lifts this country up. They are not to be forsaken! I am praying for them, thanks
Diane- Your posting is very timely and poignant. One of the things I love about this country is how we pull together during the worst of times. Perhaps, as we all do our part to help Haiti grieve for its losses & rebuild their future, we can learn more about being Constructive in our domestic criticisms and let politics drop by the wayside in favor of helping the American people improve their lives.
Very nice and words that we should all remember.
Diane-I really am disappointed and embarrassed by the naysayers in helping Haiti. We are connected because we are human beings. The basic needs are food, water and shelter. In America, even the poorest have access to these even if it is a homeless shelter. The people of Haiti don't have any of these. It is these times that the USA shines in their outpouring of help, aid and money in these times.
Diane it amazes me how this country always is the first to respond with the most help. We have to Thank the Lord for putting in our hearts to act. Blessings
Diane, It is at times like this that we realize just how wonderful our country is! The rest of the world loves to put us down but it is our people who are the first to respond when something like this happens. It is just normal people who open their wallets and hearts.
On this day of remembrance from Dr. King....I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal." Out of horrible devastation comes a moment for all people to come together and help others. How can we not feel the loss and suffering of our brothers and sisters in need?
Diane~ you are truly an eloquent writer. It is sad that it takes such a catastrophy to pull people around the world together. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings.
Very thoughtful post, Diane. Current events certainly do cause us to reflect with both gratitude and deep sadness. However, hopefully we will also be moved to act! There is something every single one of us can do . . . let's just pitch in and do it!
Dave, I so appreciate your support and prayers for those who are unable to help themselves. Blessings to you.... thank you.
Bill: The American people really do know how to give and pull together in times like these. I am in total agreement to your suggestion, and we can all learn from one another. The bickering seems so insignificant now.
Tom: It was kind of you to acknowledge with your words. Thank you.
Michele: Certainly do i understand how you feel, and yes we are all connected, but some of us take things for granted and lack the heart to care if it has not hit home. Appreciate your concern.
Nick: You have spoken well... It's the LORD who has to soften the heart! So true!
Marchel: Americans are givers. We respond when our hearts are pricked in disasters as this. It's the TRUE meaning of what UNITED States mean. Thanks for telling it in that light Marchel!
Carol: We are seeing a phenomal thing in this Nation! There is more of an outpour from this tragedy than we've witnessed in a long time. Hearts are being pricked! Parts of Dr. King's dream is becoming a reality! I appreciate you posting a portion of his speech Carol. You are a blessing. Thank you.
Dawn: Thank you.... this post was not planned. The words began to form as the tears escaped. Haiti has touched the hearts of the world.
Deena: After being overwhelmed by the need, we cannot help but assist!
Diane, I wasn't surprised to see everyone come together to help out in this crisis. Maybe it's because I remember seeing this in the September 11th attacks where people came from all across the globe to help us. It is beautiful to watch everyone come together....I'm just sorry it doesn't remain that way.
Carole, I seriously was NOT expecting the out pour to be as such! It's a blessing to see the opposers forsake their differences and come together. I am grateful. I too wish it could remain.
Diane - I pray that the softening of hearts will continue for a long time. Thank you for such a well-written post.
Amen, Diane, Amen!! Love, Jo
Diane,
I agree that hearts are changing and there should be great things to come. Featuring this on spiritual rain.
Jo!!! AMEN! Love YOU TOO!
Mike: It's the Lord Mike... an internal work is underway drawing souls. I believe with you about the great things to come. Thank you for the feature.
Wonderful post, Diane. Thanks for the reminder. I have literally been stunned by the devastation and marvel at their perseverance. I know He only gives us what we can handle, but they need our prayers so very much...
Diane, I don't know if this a the beginning of peace amoungst us, but it is a good example of how this great country of ours reacts to those who are in need. It is just a shame that the supplies that were ready to be delivered took so long to get to those in need of them.
Irene: I agree with you... it's much easier to carry than a hard one!
Kathy: Thank you. We are all affected, for our very hearts are crying. Yes, they do need our prayers and in the midst of it all they still have a prayer and a song themselves. What we can learn from them!!
George: It would be a miracle IF it did happen! I too hate delays when timing is so crucial
We can all learn from the selfless acts that are taking place right at this moment, for the people of Haiti and for the good of all people, everywhere! Thank you for a very touching post Diane!
Wanda: Isn't this something? OH Lord, let us remain people who walk in unconditional love, seeing others they way YOU see them.... amen
Diane, you expressed yourself very eloquently. It would be wonderful if this helpful and caring attitude would prevail throughout all times and not just in time of dire need.
Silvia: Yes it would wouldn't it?? That is wishful thinking though... only in the movies or la la land... until... Thanks for coming in, reading and leaving a compliment and comment Silvia!
Diane, as always you write such great posts..."Could this be the beginning of peace amongst us... OR will we revert back to our separate corners of the ring in our resolve to take up where we left off.... once this crisis is out of danger??" A great question. we should all ask ourselves and pray.
Diane, as always you write such great posts..."Could this be the beginning of peace amongst us... OR will we revert back to our separate corners of the ring in our resolve to take up where we left off.... once this crisis is out of danger??" A great question. we should all ask ourselves and pray.
Rebecca: It is something to ponder isn't it? We already KNOW the answer.... but we still hope in spite of it.... with our insides longing for the fruition of the promise, we bow to our knees.
Diane, It's a continuation of peace...as we all grow by being touched by more and more around us...lovely post.
Jane: Thank you. I'd like to believe that it is a continuation, and for sure we have been touched.
Diane, this was a truly beautiful post & a moving tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King. Thank you for sharing it with your Friends on Fraiche Aire.
Diane: How anyone could see the images of devastation, pain, loss, and suffering and remain untouched by it ... I do not know. How could it matter what country those suffering were from? The politics of its rulers? The color of the skin? Please take heart and don't give up hope. The outpouring of donations, concern, and prayers has been remarkable ... and all three will do great things.
Gene
Lola: I am honored and humbled by your visit and consent. Thank YOU for your presence.
Gene: Your enthusiastic passion is evident. We will not give up hope. May your earnest sincerity infect all those you come in contact with!
Diane, you'll hear nothing negative out of my corner. With one exception. First let me say that I'm glad to see people everywhere coming together to aid Haiti with the basics to survive. How can anyone who has watched the news of late do otherwise.
But, my cynical nature takes over and I can't help thinking that politics plays a part and some view it as the "politically correct" thing to do. When Haiti has been given the tools it needs to rebuild I believe that the work done there will indeed have changed lives and not just in Haiti.
My hope is that this could: "be the beginning of peace amongst us" my fear and expectation is that some will: "revert back to our separate corners".
I remain hopeful. Great post.
Hi Nick! You blessed me with your comment. It was done with much thoughtful consideration of which i am humbled. Thank you.