Why Compassion, Not Comparison, Should Guide
This post might be deep—and maybe even controversial—but it’s one I feel compelled to write. The wildfires in California have been absolutely devastating. My heart breaks for everyone affected. At the same time, I’ve been scrolling through TikTok and seeing people highlight the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, particularly in North Carolina. Many are questioning why celebrities focused on California’s tragedy aren’t showing the same concern for the hurricane’s aftermath.
Here’s where things might get controversial.
One tragedy does not need to overshadow another. Each disaster has its own impact, and one person’s trauma isn’t more valid or important than someone else’s. We can—and should—have compassion for everyone affected, regardless of where they live or what caused their pain.
That said, I think the real frustration people feel isn’t about the tragedies themselves but the disparity in the government’s response. In North Carolina, FEMA offered residents $750—if they applied and were approved. Meanwhile, President Biden announced that the federal government would cover all wildfire-related costs in California for the next 180 days. The difference in response is striking, and I believe this is the root of the outrage.
When I first heard about the President’s decision, my immediate reaction was, “Why not the same for North Carolina or Tennessee?” After some reflection, I came to a troubling thought: it might be about politics and money. California, with its wealthy donors and political influence, likely carries more weight for some decision-makers than North Carolina. But that shouldn’t be the case. Our government is supposed to serve all Americans—regardless of political affiliation, geography, or income level.
This inequity in response is disheartening, and the frustration is understandable. Still, that doesn’t diminish the pain of those experiencing these disasters. People in California have lost their homes, belongings, and loved ones. Their grief is real and valid, no matter how wealthy or famous some of them might be. The comments about celebrities being able to “afford new homes” miss the point: they are still human, and they’re allowed to grieve their losses.
In fact, many celebrities have acknowledged how fortunate they are to have resources that others might not. They’re grateful to escape the fires, find a safe place to stay, and begin rebuilding without the financial strain others face. Their gratitude reminds me of the message in Pray First: gratitude for God’s blessings sustains us, even in difficult times.
Faith is often what gets us through the darkest moments. I’ll admit, there have been times in my life when I was angry at God during heartbreak. It’s a natural response. But reconciliation with faith often brings peace, reminding us that His will prevails.
To those affected by these disasters, I pray for you. May God bless you and bring you strength. And to all of us watching from afar, let’s set aside political, religious, or ideological differences and support one another. Tragedy should unite us, not divide us.
One tragedy does not hold more weight than another—no matter what the media coverage or political responses might suggest. If you’re a praying person, pray for everyone affected. If you can donate to organizations helping victims on both coasts, please do. Let’s show kindness and compassion as we navigate this human experience together.