IT’S hard to forget the people who reached out to us in our times of difficulty. They are not aware that even after many years, we still remember them in our prayers, and that we wish them and their relatives well.
They were the people who gave their time to listen to us when we needed comfort and advice. They checked on us, supported us, and offered help even when we did not say anything. They heard us, even in silence.
Many people are motivated to show kindness because they or their forefathers were shown kindness in a time of great difficulty, trouble, or danger.
Our overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Israel are treated well by their employers. Filipinos can also visit Israel without visa. “This is because of the moral courage manifested by the late President Manuel L. Quezon, who welcomed over 1,300 Jews exiledduring World War II. The gesture started the close friendship of Jews and Filipinos, commemorated through the Open Doors Monument in Tel Aviv. Filipino hospitality at a time when the Jewish people needed it most earned the gratitude of Israel, which is now giving back by welcoming Filipino pilgrims, tourists, and even skilled workers to Israel.” (Israel Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines).
A financial aid of $170, then considered a big amount, from tribal people who had very little was sent by the Chowtaw Nation of Oklahoma to Irish people during the potato famine. One-hundred seventy-three years later, donations from Ireland were sent to the Chowtaws who are suffering due to “one of the worst coronavirus outbreaks in the United States.” According to the Irish Times, many donors commented that they were giving “in remembrance of Native American aid to Ireland during the Great Hunger.”
In what ways have other people helped and comforted you in a time of difficulty, and how can you return the favor? Millions of people are suffering not only financially, but physically and emotionally. Each one can reach one. How can you help ease someone’s burden?
