Taking time to do the right thing

While images and articles about the recent earthquake in Haiti revealed the depths of what some people have to endure in order to survive, they also helped show that others are not entirely ignorant to this plight.

Unable to directly help Haitians affected by the disaster, people the world over did the only thing they could conceivably do - send money to organizations and groups that could provide actual assistance to those in need.

The Canadian government promised millions of dollars in support (as well as sending military forces and other aid to help with disaster relief); the Newfoundland and Labrador government pledged a million dollars; and individuals throughout Bay St. George and the province dug into their own pockets to give what they could.

For those cynics who say people are desensitized or blasé toward their fellow citizens, these acts of giving provided a real sense of compassion and concern - regardless of how small or large the monetary donation.

We do what we can to help those who need our help the most. And, of course, the people of Haiti definitely need our help. Our donations become much needed supplies, food, drinkable water, shelter and the like.

But what about the long-term? Much of the infrastructure in Port au Prince, the nation's capital, and elsewhere where was destroyed by the earthquake. Haiti will likely need help over several years to rebuild hospitals, schools, and other structures, along with the numerous dwellings for the millions left homeless.

One can also hope this disaster helps to provide more light on the nation's other long-standing difficulties - which include mass poverty, general lack of basic health care and what some consider widespread political corruption.

While we take it upon ourselves to help fellow human beings in desperate need of immediate help, let's not see the recent Haiti earthquake as a quick-fix problem. Rather, it should be viewed as a wake up call to help Haitians with both their short and long-term difficulties, so they can better stand on their own and ultimately help themselves.