by Linda Meadows

In the face of despair like the one we see in Chile and Haiti, two nations who have suffered devastating earthquakes, it does our hearts good when there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon – orphans with their small backpacks boarding airplanes destined for new homes, eager family members awaiting the safe arrival of a son or daughter, a newborn surviving and innovative volunteers providing ingenuity and medical treatment.

Watching the progress of the beleaguered people of these two nations, it is difficult to witness the terrible aftermath of these devastating earthquakes. But I truly appreciate the newspersons on the ground reporting. While sitting comfortably in our homes, we are taken to the heart of destruction. Yes, there are dilapidated buildings and overturned roads, but there are also resilient and triumphant human spirits. cnn is not only focusing on the dismal reality, but helping to dispel myths and galvanize the global community to help make a positive difference.

For example, one of the news reporters highlighted a Sunday morning congregation sitting outdoors. The backdrop was their parish now a pile of rubble. The congregation was praying, singing, crying, worshipping and celebrating life. The gentleman holding the microphone connected to the power generator encouraged members to share their meager funds in support of a parishioner who lost all his worldly possessions. People clamored around the man in solidarity and then began to drop coins in the woven collection basket.

Can you imagine, being in a similar predicament and reaching deep in your pockets to share your last coins? These Haitian parishioners did! Their circumstances must have been equally dire. When I witnessed this, I better understood what it means to impact our world for the better.

My friends, if you too desire to open your hearts and share your resources, cnn has compiled a list of organizations and services. The site will enable you to learn about the wealth of humanitarian efforts made on behalf of disaster victims. Let’s be the hearts, hands and eyes that are urgently needed to impact the world in a better way.

Visit Impact Your World: www.cnn.com/impact