We live in an age where nothing can be hidden, blessed with technology that constantly reminds us of death and destruction and devastation, of carnage and war and those whose only goal in life is to gain for themselves that which they must take from others, no matter the cost. We cannot turn on a television or listen to a radio station, log in on a computer or pick up a newspaper without being beaten over the head with all that is wrong with this world. And it takes absolutely no time for the worst possible news to spread like wildfire. If it isn’t a bright red banner across MSN’s home page, it’s comment after comment on Facebook or text messages from those with knowledge assuring the rest of us are informed.

Maybe that’s a good thing, but there are days it certainly doesn’t feel that way. I cannot fix most of what transpires in this world. I can’t provide homes for all the homeless, food for those who are starving, justice for everyone, or enduring comfort for the bereaved. Whether the events that afflict us are wrought by Mother Nature or man, whether by accident or intent, they are beyond my control but can still fill my eyes with tears and my heart with an ache that will not let go. In short, I am not able to control most of what goes awry in this world but, if I am not careful, it can control me.

There are times when it almost becomes too much to bear. The devastation in Nepal. The violence in Baltimore. The tragedies in our own small, close-knit communities. The death and destruction screams at us, demanding our attention, daring us to look away, but within those events, if we search deeply and long enough, we will find good. I don’t mean that there is good to be found in the massive loss of life brought about by a natural phenomenon. I would never believe that good can be found in anger and destruction. I cannot find one single solitary note of good in the untimely deaths of those whose lives have just begun. But think about the rescuers in Nepal, those who search for survivors and recover the remains of those who died. Look at the 1,000 volunteers who came to the most damaged areas of Baltimore the day after the riots, their sole intent being to restore what they could for people they did not even know. Think of those who reach out to the families so torn with grief over untimely loss. As Mr. Rogers said, “Look for the helpers,” for they bring far more than willing hands and hearts. They bring compassion, love, and hope to a grieving world. I challenge us all to be those helpers, to do what we can where we can with what we have. The day may come when we will pray fervently for someone to return the favor.

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