Be The Helper

One of the better pieces of advice that I've heard about dealing with tragedies like natural or man-made disasters comes from Fred Rogers. Well, I guess it technically comes from Fred Rogers' mom.

Fred told a story about a time when he was a kid and something scary happened that made its way onto the news. Fred and his mom were watching TV to keep updated on whatever was going on and Fred tells how his mom tried to comfort him.

She told him, "Look for the helpers."

This is an outstanding piece of advice that puts the focus on the recovery and not on the tragedy. It reminds us that the situation is not outside the realm of action. Something can be done to make it better.

I want to take what I see as the next logical step both in supporting that plan and in strengthening our own intestinal fortitude. Looking for the helpers is great, but being one of the helpers is better.

Be the helper that others are looking for.