Extend My Reach

So far, Haiti seems so far
from here where I live
peering into a TV screen
broadcasting misery
that splatters across my chest.

I want the images to do more than make me ache.
I need cries for help to touch more than my ears.
I long to matter to people when they most need aid.

So far, Haiti seems so far
from my ability to help.

Extend my reach Lord.

May my meager gifts
of money
prayer
and a shoulder to cry on
help one more person
than would be helped
if I just turn away
and do nothing.