The Diplomad has a comment in a post Death in Nasty Places: Who Cares?
A relatively senior Sri Lankan official leaned over and said to me, “Why do we want to bother with this? We all know you Americans will do everything.”
In closing he states
Maybe, just maybe Western civilization is morally superior.
Good question, Are we morally superior?
My take on this is that western civilization has nurtured a value for every life and that we should fight for every life no matter status of that life. In the far east and middle east beliefs are not like ours. They value life but if a different way than we do. It would be disrespectful to try to define how each group values life so I would just direct people to sites like beliefnet
In my travels to the near, middle, and far east I can tell you that there is a difference that is hard to put in words. The values, beliefs, and the definition or right and wrong are very different from my upbringing. Competition, over population, and faith (beliefs) might be a big driver in the differences between our cultures.
This does not remove responsibility from others for providing assistance also. Even the people that live near the areas affected should be providing support to the areas affected. I think the effect that the diplomad speaks of is more of an entitlement mentality because America has provided support to so many for so long that the world believes we have to help. We are there because we care. We are there because we try to live up to our beliefs. We provide support because we are the USA. Be proud that the world looks to us in a time of need. Be humble in meeting that need.
As we move into a global economy values will need to move closer together and our providing support just might provide the key for others to adopt some of our beliefs into theirs. All the while our willingness to give to others and fight for the lowest life does not mean that we are morally superior.
A good question that will bring lots of different views is what is morally right? Is our beliefs and actions based on these beliefs right? If we did nothing would we also be right if our beliefs told us to care for ourselves and let others care for themselves? May everyone prosper based on how they help the people in need.
So the question I have for the Diplomad is how can I help you and your family?
God bless and God Speed.
Come home safely Diplomad family.
