While reading on NPR I came across an article that addressed how the children of Haiti were being helped during this time of need. It was in a form different than money, food, and shelter. It was in a more real form. One that money can not buy. It was through letters. But these letters were more than just words on a page. 
They were letters of hope, love and understanding from children their own age. A group of 5th grade students took the time to color, draw, and write about themselves and who they were with the hopes that they would inspire the children to remember that they too are still children. These letters brought smiles to hundreds of faces that may have forgotten what smiling felt like.
The letters allowed the children to think about something other than the disaster the January earthquake left them with. They were now able to think about how they were going to remain connected with these other children who were in a different country.
The children in Haiti responded to their newly found pen pales with letters and hand made toy cars. Children from both sides are benefiting. The young kids in California are able to see how privileged they are to be in school and living in a home. They are able to hear, from kids their own age, some extremly sad stories. For instance, one child read that her pen pal in Haiti is living on the streets. However, this does not get their spirits down because they are hearing hopeful responses in return. Things like “be strong” and “I am glad you are now in my life”. It is these little hopes of encouragment that can change a person’s outlook.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=124236747
I think it is important to remember that what happened in Haiti is a tragedy, but there are positives in the situation as well. Little letters of encouragement are often the best things. Remembering the small things is important. Money and tangible objects can not buy happiness, but loving notes can bring a lot of joy! Have a great spring break!
