Letters: Jan. 31, 2005

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When I began to read your tsunami report [Jan. 10], I immediately recoiled. I was angry that your photographs showed the faces of the dead, until I realized that my anger was a reaction to human suffering. Then I softened and opened my heart--and wept. I never again want to be unmoved by the suffering of another human being. Thank you for bringing the struggle and anguish of our brothers and sisters into our comfortable homes.

SCOTT WYMAN Chico, Calif.

I was glad to see the outpouring of support from people and nations around the globe for victims of the Indian Ocean tsunami. It demonstrates that there are still some very compassionate philanthropists in the world. Yet as the badly needed support arrives, the news is all about which countries are pledging the most assistance--and the U.S. is criticized for not giving more. Don't we in the U.S. contribute enough to the world? We are engaged in a war on terrorism that is draining our bank accounts, and we already send money to countries in need. I am sure we are doing the best we can to help tsunami victims. If the same sort of disaster were to strike the U.S., would other nations give as much as we have?

BRYAN YOUNG Niantic, Conn.

The magnitude of devastation from the tsunami has exposed the limits of scientific knowledge and the lack of cooperation among nations in using sophisticated tools to prevent human suffering. Considering the breathtaking technological innovations of today's era, it was shocking for so many people to perish instantaneously. Had there been a global tsunami-warning network in place, the death and suffering of tens of thousands could have been avoided. Natural disasters cannot be predicted with absolute certitude, but appropriate technological tools can minimize devastation by providing warning. The international community must develop a global early-warning system to inform people of any looming threat, and the U.N. should set up permanent regional disaster-aid centers so that quick relief can be provided.

AHMED S. KHAN Addison, Ill.

The U.S.'s response to tragedies that occur beyond its borders is often woefully inadequate. The loss of human life and livelihood is always worthy of our attention, compassion and benevolence. Today I can say that our nation--from politicians to philanthropic organizations to ordinary people--has done us proud in reaching out to the victims of this unimaginable catastrophe. I can only hope that such an outstanding display of generosity will not be limited to this one event but will be extended wherever and whenever disaster strikes and the citizens of the world need our help.

SHERRI SWIMAN West Roxbury, Mass.

I've had enough of the media's second-guessing the U.S.'s contributions to tsunami disaster relief. Such criticism only cheapens the aid and compassion we are offering. Instead of expending energy on useless questioning of our generosity and motives, all efforts should be directed toward helping the victims.

TOM NESBITT Keatchie, La.