"Pictures of tragedy and the accounts that follow inspire most of us to do something. We see a flood, a fire, an earthquake, hurricane or tsunami, and we know that other human beings need our help. We understand the story, a narrative that begins with the event followed by chapters of survival and courage.

We know this story -- and know what we're supposed to do.

But then the story slowly fades from our thoughts. We accept that something was done. Life is better there (wherever there might be). And we move on.

This makes me wonder: Why are we human beings so good when we're called on to help during a crisis, yet only mediocre (at best) when called on to help fix chronic conditions?"

Get the Story:
Mark Trahant: We seem to care only during crisis (The Seattle Post-Intelligencer 2/6)

More Mark Trahant:
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Mark Trahant: NMAI must change the story (09/27)
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Mark Trahant: What happened to Pakistan? bin Laden? (09/13)
Mark Trahant: Payroll tax not fair to all Americans (8/23)
Mark Trahant: Bush's answer was slightly better (8/9)
Audio: Bush explains meaning of tribal sovereignty (8/6)
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Mark Trahant: Living in a world of easy credit (7/26)
Mark Trahant: Congress still stealing Indian land (07/12)
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