The Director of HLI's affiliate in El Salvador reflects on the devastation caused by the deadly earthquake that shook her country and undertakes a campaign to raise funds for the victims.

On January 13, at 11:35 A.M., 2001, our people experienced the effects of a natural disaster never before seen in the history of El Salvador: An earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale that lasted 45 seconds. It unleashed a force 50 thousand times more destructive than the bombing in Oklahoma city and 80 times more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb. Each day brings thousands more victims as the bridges and roads are rebuilt and access to remote areas is cleared.

Every single Salvadorean has been affected by this disaster, some more than others. The losses encompass both material posessions and the tragic loss of one or more loved ones.

I lost two friends that I met at prayer groups. They were exemplary women who taught us even unto the last moments of their lives. Betty, the only victim who died in the town of Santiago de María, went out into her garden as the walls of her house were crumbling around her and knelt in prayer. She died of a heartattack. Thelma was found after days of searching among the victims in La Colina also on her knees, according to family members.

There is so much suffering, a million people affected -one out of six people! Those of us that were left behind must ask ourselves: What does God want from me? Why has He left me here? Our hearts should tremble as our beloved country trembled. Would I have been ready to enter into eternal life? Would I have knelt and given my soul to the Lord? Have I done God's will? Have I served my brothers and sisters as God asks me to do? What does God want me to do with my life? It is never too late to start again.

Our hearts ache at the reports of entire families buried, fathers and sons that were found embracing as they saw their inminent death. We cannot remain unmoved by stories of families who have lost everything, of mothers trying to warm their children at night as they sleep unsheltered. Our brothers and sisters need us and with them, we can begin a new life, a new El Salvador, where peace will reign among brothers and sisters.

Toiletries, clothes, food, medicines and tents are desperately needed. A TV-marathon in Nicaragua raised 75 thousand dollars and purchased 45 trucks. The generosity of our Nicaraguan brothers and sisters is very moving. One man who had only 7 pairs of pants, donated 5 because he said he could live with only two. Are we capable of giving of ourselves in this way?

To all the independent volunteers, rich and poor, private businesses, government, NGO's, humanitarian organizations, the military and international organizations that have worked unconditionally and continue to work tirelessly, we give our recognition, gratitude and support. It is admirable that, in spite of the destructive criticism of some who use the suffering of others to sow discord and hatred among classes and to advance their dirty political campaigns, these groups continue their efforts with great enthusiasm and solidarity. We are not perfect and we can make mistakes. What is important is to recognize them and correct them as we make our way. May God have mercy on those who make false accusations to manipulate a hurting country. Aren't they worried about risking the loss of international aid?

Our people are wise, understanding and grateful and they know how to recognize the truth. Let's continue on, all people of good will, so that together we may rebuild El Salvador with God's blessing.