Are We Numb?

The earthquake in Pakistan that is now responsible for taking over 30,000 lives has received relatively little coverage for a magnitude its size. (In terms of fatalities the quake is the equivalent of eleven September 11ths.)

Our country, still struggling with the worst hurricane season in recent memory, may lack the emotional energy to adequately repond to the recent crisis in south Asia. While we don't want to be guilty of "looking out for number one" and ignoring the plight of others, we also don't want to turn our backs on our citizens in the Gulf Coast region whom we are committed to supporting.

My hope is that, even if we are unable to invest emotionally in the Pakistan earthquake, we can invest financially. Our hearts may be weary, but we still have cash, and international aid organizations know how to put cash to good use.

Honestly, I have not yet given to the relief effort in south Asia, but I think we all need to consider what we are able to give. We also need to pause in the coming days and weeks to say a prayer for the people of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India.

Related: "UMCOR, Relief Agencies Respond to Asia Earthquake (UM News Service)