Haiti and Whiskey

I knew I could get your attention.

We all know of the events on January 12 , when an earthquake rattled Haiti and quite literally destroyed their country.

Now, I do not subscribe to the belief of the Italian Disaster Chief  (HERE) that the US hasn’t done enough, or is reacting wrongly by sending troops in.  In fact, this is probably one area I think the US has excelled, far more than any other country in the world…..but that is getting political, and that is something I try to avoid here.

In addition to the bad press that Italy is giving, there even has been a spate of Facebook status’ calling for America to look inward:

Shame on you America: the only country where we have homeless without shelter, children going to bed without eating, elderly going without needed meds, and mentally ill without treatment - yet we have a benefit for the people of Haiti on 12 TV stations.and major cable stations, movie channels. 99% of people won't have the guts to copy and...... repost this.

Again, I’m not an advocate here (probably to the shock of many of you), but instead saying that we (as Freemasons, Americans, Christians or just being good people) should be helping anyone, in any way we can. 

Be it through the local Food Bank (here is ours in Columbia MO), to the Red Cross (many of you have heard my Elisabeth Dole rant), to just chucking your change in the Fireman’s Boot.  It all adds up and helps someone, somewhere.

Please give.

Now I know you are wondering….how does this tie to Smokes and Booze.

Well, first…just creating awareness can go a long way to helping.  But today, I was further inspired by a news article (HERE). 

In it, we learn of Wismond Exantus, the 24-year-old Haitian man who survived being trapped, for 11 days, when when a 4 story building collapsed upon him.

How did he survive you ask?  Through the only thing he could reach:  A bottle of whiskey, some beers and a few bags of chips and candy.

People, that is a determination to live. 

Myself, I would have abandoned hope….drank the whiskey in one night and given up.

Instead, Wismond rationed his meager supplies (using the whiskey to help him sleep), stayed calm and dreamed of riding horses and swimming in the ocean.

How could I not speak out for this guy…..he survived on what we take for granted.

Tonight I raise a toast to you Wismond…I pray that you are doing well, and that your country is soon rebuilt.  I know I will do my part.