the way our family helped.

I know throughout the world right now everyone's thoughts are on the devastating effects of last weeks earthquake in Haiti.  I just can't even comprehend the horror that these poor people are living through.  It is so awful.

And even though it is a scary thing, Jimmy and I felt like it was important for our children to understand what is going on there.  We feel like they are old enough to know of some of the circumstances the people are currently existing in.  I know lots of you have already made donations, but I thought I would share the way we decided to do it as a family.

So, one week ago, we showed them some of the pictures coming out of Haiti, and talked to them about the earthquake and the lack of food and water and shelter and medicine.  We showed them these pictures of this little boy the rescuers found and how happy he was to see his mommy.

Next, we made a big list of all the chores that could be done in our home.  We called it our "Help for Haiti" list and decided that for each chore completed we would pay the child $1.00.  (Typically the kids do one or two chores a day, but we don't usually pay them.)  When they completed a chore, they would sign their name next to it, so we could keep track.

I have been happy to see them, over this last week, work very hard to earn as much as they could to help our brothers and sisters in Haiti.  Tonight we went over the chore list and paid the kids all they had earned over the week.  Jimmy and I added ours in too, and Ashlyn counted all the money up.  The kids were so excited about how much they had earned.  Then we went to the computer together and Cam entered in our donation online.  We talked about how important it is that we make good use of the means the Lord has provided us with, and not sit idly by while others are suffering, and I hope it was a really meaningful experience for them.

I especially loved the statement that the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gave, where after asking us to donate monetarily as our means allow, they said: "Money is not the only need in Haiti. People are frightened, bewildered, and wholly uncertain about their future. In addition to what people can do in helping with food, water and shelter, there needs to be a calming influence over that troubled nation. We invite our people everywhere to supplicate God for a spirit of calm and peace among the people as urgent aid and reconstruction efforts continue."

I am sure you are like me, and feel so very thankful for all those people who are a part of rescue and relief organizations throughout the world who respond so selflessly when horrible things like this happen.