Yes, it is a good thing. We aren't used to others coming to help because we usually are the ones doing the helping. We pride ourselves on helping each other and other less fortunate nations. This country, I believe, has been blessed far beyond most any other country in the world. Out of this disaster will arise a much stronger nation. We're on the verge of a 100 billion dollar influx into our economy. If you've got money to invest, buy stock in America, particularly in the housing sector!!!

John

>John,
>
>As a proportion of GNP the most generous contributors are the Scandinavians and they derive the least geopolitical benefit as well, though the US contributes by far the most $ with its enormous market. But that isn't the story here.
>
>The story is that the UN has some expertise in managing disaster, also in co-ordinating relief efforts. Your friends have arranged to harness this expertise to assist at a time when you need it.
>
>The story I see is the UN doing something right. What matters is that even small countries half the world away are sending expert floodworkers and doing the best they can. The UN has the expertise to co-ordinate that. So you are not alone and the rest of the world is *not* made up of people who want the worst for you.