On Haiti

...or rather, on the subject of the massive earthquake that struck Haiti on and its indescribably awful aftermath.

I don't know much about Haiti or anyone who actually lives there, or who died there, so I can't say much of substance.

But I do acknowledge the disaster.

These things happen in the world, and having a blog called "Existence is Wonderful" doesn't render me ignorant to this.

I wish they didn't happen, or rather, that when they did happen, we were better prepared for them. But I am by no means sure what to do in the way of preparation, in my own life or on behalf of others (and no, I don't think the solution necessarily involves robots).

Nor am I sure what I can do as an individual to help mitigate the effects of such a cataclysmic event. I mean, yes, there are groups I can donate to, but even if I go that route I don't want it to be in order to assuage my own survivor's guilt or whatnot. When something like this happens, what is needed is a whole lot of very concrete, very practical, very physical assistance. Medical care. Shelter. Food. Clean water. Rescue work to free people trapped under rubble. Clothing. Toys and books. Other stuff I haven't thought of.

So...if you or someone you know has some direct way to contribute these things, hopefully you can find some way to do it in a way that will actually work. As for me I don't know what to do aside from donating to UNICEF or Red Cross. Suggestions that don't involve flying to Haiti (as I expect in my weak nerdy inexperienced state I'd be more of a liability than a help) are welcome.

(Also, please don't think you are being clever by pointing out that "well lots of people die right here in the USA all the time too, what makes this earthquake so special?" I know full well that lots of awful things happen, everywhere, along with the kittens and rainbows that can make life so delightful for those of us who aren't lying bloody in the streets. I'm human, though, and I freely admit that not everything gets my attention. Plus as a California resident for over a decade now I certainly think earthquake preparedness and possible aftermaths of large quakes are very much worthwhile subjects to be concerned about, regardless of where those quakes occur.)

This isn't eloquent at all but I wanted to say something (while holding no illusions that saying something means I am doing anything useful).