The recent crisis in Haiti has made all of us re-think some things.  People around the world are donating their time, money and other precious gifts to the suffering people of Haiti.  So many have lost their lives in the initial earthquake and the aftershocks that have followed.  My heart goes out to them, but in the midst of all of this giving, I can’t help but think that we should be pouring out this kind of love and support to the suffering every day.

Pain comes in many different forms.  Sometimes it’s the result of a tragedy like this.  Or, as almost any American family right now can tell you, it’s losing a job and wondering where your next paycheck is going to come from.  It’s the pain of losing a loved one.  It’s disappointment, depression, a lack of kindness or understanding.

I wonder how many times I’ve passed a person in pain, completely oblivious to them and what they were feeling.  I wonder how many times I’m missed the opportunity to help someone in need; whatever that need might have been.

In the past week we’ve seen such generosity flowing from people all over the world.  What would our world be like if this is how we lived every day?

Today I feel inspired to get involved, learning to recognize the needs of others.  Extending a hand when it’s needed, a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear, a flexible schedule, an open wallet, but most of all, an open heart.

Photo courtesy of lockstockb at stock.xchng.