If we were talking about a first-world country, I would have a similar first reaction. If people have the power to help themselves, they have a responsibility to do so.

But we're talking about the poorest of the poor here. Subsistence farmers, who live in what we would consider a survival situation all their lives, with practically no opportunity to change their lot.

These families make less in a year than I spend on take-out coffee. There's no money in the bank, no access to credit or insurance, and noplace else to go.

When floods come fast, and wash away their crops, homes, livestock, and meager possessions, they are completely and utterly wiped out. Their helpless desperation is understandable.

Thank your lucky stars that you aren't in the same boat.