Protest or Help?

The last few days have been overwhelming with the world scene being on your iPhone, iPad or big screen T.V. In my city we are mourning the death of a teen who collapsed at school, still mourning for an accident that didn’t have to happen that left one teen dead, another hanging on for life and another that will recover. Yet, the real news is focused on the protests or riots taking place in Baltimore after the funeral of a young man that was killed by the local police. What stands out the most in the world news is the devastation from an earthquake in Nepal where over 4,000 have been killed. Who knows the ultimate devastation in that country?

What helps the most in these circumstances; protesting or doing something tangible to help those who are suffering and struggling in their life circumstances? I just read a post from a good friend who lives in Baltimore talking about her youth group cleaning up after the riots and looting. The group debriefed afterwards to understand what was happening and why? I had another friend who was quick to caution everyone from being too quick to judge those who had destroyed 144 vehicles and burnt down a large CVS store. Another post was a reflection from the family who had lost their son asking for the rioting and protesting to stop for the day of the funeral.  Their prayer and request was unfortunately ignored!

Around the world in Nepal the devastation will continue for years to come. The death toll won’t be known for months if not a year. I have a friend whose niece was in Nepal a week before the quake. She has been given a quick intro into doing triage and first aid at the age of 19.  She mentioned to her family what it was like to see family members bringing arms and legs from their loved ones into the hospital.  The stark contrast between what we seeing happening in our city or Baltimore are imposed by our actions whereas the devastation of the quake in Nepal deserves the attention of the world and their help.

So what will do the most good in these circumstances? Does protesting, rioting, looting, burning down buildings or cars really accomplish anything of value? Maybe we should instead be helping those who are hurting and suffering? I struggle with the choice to use violent actions to express a point that ends up taking more lives or causing damage and destruction to property. I applaud the rescue workers that will make their way to Nepal but the reality at home is that we have to choose to be different in the way we view those around us that are different. We must rethink how we respond to the evil in the world. It’s complicated but we must do something different than what is happening in Baltimore!

Protest or help or maybe both?