A time to be our better selves

After I had witnessed a disastrous event, I blurted out to a good friend and spiritual thinker, “Why does this crap happen??” And he responded with a sigh, “Because it is part of the human condition…and it is our job as spiritual thinkers to help lift ourselves and others out of the trauma and into a better place, mentally and practically.”

Phew. Big job. But what is the point of prayer if it isn’t helping you be better so that you can help others be better?

In fact, one thing about disasters: they bring people together to become the best of who they are, individually and collectively. Haiti is the present demand for all of us to do what is our best and highest concept of our better selves.

Here’s another thing about disasters: often they bring forgotten or neglected areas/peoples of the world on to the radar screen of those countries/people that are better able to give money, health supplies, organizational expertise. If there are political differences between countries, they are suspended while the people are cared for. And since the effect of huge disasters takes time to overcome and rebuild (infrastructure, buildings, social systems), those offering help are in it for the long haul. It’s a long-term commitment and responsibility. Done right, the poor countries or regions are no longer neglected.

(This is likely the reason why the government of Myanmar would not allow foreign help when the country was devastated by the effects of a huge cyclone in May 2008. While the government maintains its control, the people suffer.)

Ok, so what can I do right now? Prayer is the way I get my head straight so I can know what action to take. Prayer guides me to good action. At this moment, I am affirming that the Haitian people are loved by the divine Spirit — they always have been, no matter what the human condition. They have done nothing that makes them vulnerable to a disaster — they are innocent and only the beneficiary of God’s abundant goodness.

Some may ask, “So where was God when this earthquake struck? If He is all powerful, how could He let this happen?” This is a big big question and the only reasoning that helps me is to accept that in this human experience, crappy things happen all the time. But to overcome them, to lessen their negative effect and be lifted out of the misery, turning toward the allness and goodness of divine Love leads the way upward to a better experience. Mistakes, broken systems, necessary infrastructure — all are repaired beneficially when powerful prayers lead the way.

What happens when a child has a serious accident? Does not his loving parent do everything in their power to comfort them and provide help? If a human parent does this, would not the divine Parent of all of us be willing and capable of doing this …and more?

So, to be my better self is to be vigilant in my prayers for Haiti, joining with thousands who are doing the same, I am sure. I expect that the effect of all these prayers will be to guide those who are providing aid with the best ideas and action plans to practically make a difference for good. I am also sending money…and being poised to hear what next the divine Parent wants me to do to help lift my Haiti family out of this present condition.