Compassion: Americans don't waste time when it comes to helping others

It should not surprise anyone that Americans are already responding to the calls for help for the people of Haiti.

They are not thinking about politics or keeping score. They are simply opening their hearts to offer food, donations, prayers, money ... anything they have to share.

The images from Port Au Prince are heartwrenching, -- and many people say it will be a long time before the country -- and its people -- can be made whole again.

And that is the reason so many Americans are already doing so much for people they have never met.

But, then again, that is our way.

The way this country and its people open their hearts to those who are in need is part of the national character of the United States. We would not hesitate to reach out -- even though we might be going through a bit of a financial crisis ourselves.

It is one of the qualities that makes this country so special -- and one so many others often comment upon as the true strength of this great nation.

So the next time someone complains about the arrogance and selfishness of Americans, we should remind them how many times, just like now, Americans have been among the first ones in line to help.

Perhaps a few of our critics could learn a lesson.

Published in Editorials on January 14, 2010 11:02 AM