We deliberately avoid blogging about politcs and religion in this space but it is virtually impossible for me to think about much else this morning than what is happening in Haiti. And that has nothing to do with either. Mr. OK Toyko Jazz passed along this website in case you are interesting in making a donation.
I just wanted to take a moment to appreciate the devasting situation in Haiti and to all of our brothers and sisters who are suffering.
Death has been on my mind this week–today is the third anniversary of my father’s death, tomorrow is the one-year anniversary of Todd Drew’s passing, Diane’s father would have been 82. Art Rust Jr passed away yesterday and so did the legendary soul singer Teddy Pendergrass.
A moment of silence is in order followed by the overwhelming gratitude I have for life, family, and love.
Terrible stuff. On top of everything else, my favorite garage-rocker the unfortunately-named Jay Reatard died at age 29 yesterday. Then I ran into that clip of Pat Robertson blaming Haiti's woes on a "pact with the devil". You're not helping, Pat.
I think any responsible place you send money too is OK so long as it isn't Bill Clintons. Doctors Without Borders, American Jewish World Service, or any group committed to social justice. Too many groups out there need help. Just found another one that broke my heart: Rawandan children of rape.
Brings to mind Roberto Clemente. He died in a plane crash while on route to help victims of a natural disaster. How many current ballplayers have we heard from?
I never forgave Manny, either, for being so cheap when a tragedy such as this hit the Dominica.
Pat Robertson. He blamed 9/11, which Rudy says didn't happen on his watch or Georgie W's, on gays. I am just happy for the little I have and I don't blame anyone or anything for these tragedies and I am thankful I have some time to try to make some sense of it. I think that is one of the reasons I follow baseball, because, in the end, it is all there for all to see, even if some of the players cheated. They still gotta throw it, hit it, and catch it. It takes my mind off or the awfulness that surrounds us.
Just saw Yankees gave 1/2 mil. Not bad. How about A-Rod and Jete and the big lefty?