Jaded

I watched a video for "Invisible Children" and it had the same effect as most foreign social justice issues. My heart breaks for those less fortunate, but i worry that most "relief" does more harm than good in the long run. Maybe i look too much to the future, but i think most people only look at the moment. I certainly don't have all the answers, but my knowledge of foreign history and politics has left me quite jaded. Corrupt governments continue to be corrupt no matter how much aid we provide. At the same time, i don't think our government should take out their government. Part of the video highlighted some of the kids lobbying the U.S. to send millions to aid Africa (which congress did). I am completely opposed to that. There are so many more appropriate uses for that money and ultimately it will just help sustain the corrupt government.
It breaks my heart that there are so many people dying and living in fear, and i feel so helpless. Food and education will provide immediate help, but without a heart change of the whole culture, the problem will only worsen. One corrupt leader will replace another and the people will become even more dependent on foreign aid. And i continue to feel helpless.
I guess i'll just focus on the local issues that i can influence.