America knows tragedy, but for most of us, probably not to this extent.  Imagine today 20% of your Facebook friends died, were feared dead or injured by a disaster, natural or otherwise.  That’s the reality (or, at least, a poor attempt at capturing the reality) that the people of Haiti are grappling with as they wake up this morning as the AP estimates that up to 500,000 may be dead out of a country of 9.8 million.

American citizens have given more to the world than any nation in the history of civilization in terms of financial support, medical supplies, food and other goods and services.  The majority of the support comes from private citizens, religious assemblies and reputable non-profit organizations.  Nearly 66% of citizens donated to help the 9/11 relief efforts while 63% donated to help victims of the 2005 hurricanes, of which Katrina was most prominent.

Now America has the opportunity to step up once again and show that the reason our nation’s greatness is because our citizens care.  This is a real opportunity to “spread the wealth” to those who need the most.  I encourage patriots out there that if they have so already, to give to the relief efforts going on in Haiti.  The Red Cross always does a superb job in these circumstances.  If you’re looking for a faith-based charity, I would recommend Convoy of Hope.  Both organizations are on the ground working around-the-clock.

Please continue to pray for the victims of this horrible tragedy.