Are You a Beacon?

Like all of you, I have been following the horrific aftermath of the earthquake in Haiti. Today's paper contained accounts of aid distribution and I was struck by something. In one instance, an aid organization was delivering water and rations via helicopter. When they landed, people became violent, fighting for supplies, throwing stones. In another instance, the same organization was again delivering water and rations via helicopter. This time, when they landed, the people dropped to their knees and prayed.

I completely understand both reactions. When we are hungry, thirsty, in schock, in grief, wounded beyond all comprehension both fighting and praying seem perfectly reasonable. But what made the difference? What tipped the throngs of people in different directions?

All it takes is one, or a few, to turn the tides. We see and feel it in our families, our schools, our communities. We talk about it in every athletic endeavor: "The momentum of the game has shifted!" All it takes is one. I watched a talented undefeated youth baseball team unravel because of it. Instead of saying 'we can do this; lets go!' they began to blame each other for missed pop flys, striking out, etc. Soon even the stars weren't performing. Momentum had shifted, indeed.

Reading about the two different crowds in Haiti, made me mindful. I want to always be that beacon that drops to my knees in prayer and gratitude, not throws rocks out of fear. Each of us has the grace to shift momentum with our words and behaviors- in our homes, our schools, and our communities.

May the needs and prayers of the Haitians - and all those in need - be answered.