Help Your Neighbor

Honestly, I want to complain about my lack of job. About my monthly student loans, and what seems like an overall stand-still on life. But it just doesn't seem right while so much sadness is going on in our small world.

Here are the top things making my heart ache:

Haiti. As news rolls in of the continuing destruction, loss, and death in Haiti it's important that everyone remember you can help. Whether it's through prayers, active service, or donations ... please, do your part. Even the smallest of things can make a world of difference. Minnesota has various non-profits already working in Haiti, check them out and see what you can do.

Nigeria. Although much of the media attention on Christmas Day's attempted airplane bombing has resided, racist attitudes and cultural misunderstandings have not. This summer I interned with the Iowa Resource for International Service, specifically with the State Department Youth Exchange and Study Program. Along with other interns and staff members we worked hard to bring students from both Tanzania and Nigeria to Iowa. All our hard work paid off because we have been truly blessed with a group of wonderful students. Many are active in their new schools through sports, theater, volunteer work, and top academics. One of our young Muslim Nigerian students, Auwal Ahmed, wrote a short article on his prospective of the situation. PLEASE, take the time to read it at http://iriscenter.wordpress.com/

Sudan. Both Sudanese-based humanitarian groups and reports of recent violence prove that the 2005 peace deal between the North and the South are shaky. Most the unrest is due to the extreme poverty, hunger, loss of belongings, and violence that is experienced by millions living in refugee camps. I don't necessarily have an exact recommendation on what to do for the people of Sudan, but I do hope that people will take the time to stay informed. Know what's going on in the world. One simple idea, make the news station of your choice your internet home page or read the world news during TV commercials!

It is essential that during times of violence and distress we remember that our world is smaller than it is big, people are more kind than they are bad, and we are all more connected than separated.

Love your neighbor. & while you're at it ... love your local farmers, your body, and Mother Nature too.