Encomium

Sure, Greece has its problems. Corruption. A lack of foresight when it comes to what to do with those durned Olympic venues (two years later, and the new buildings are in shambles). Issues with immigration (and how to deal with illegal immigrants). Poor economy. Indignities when dealing with the large Roma community (DeviousDiva has a beautifully written series on her visits to a Roma community in Athens, if you haven't read it, I highly recommend it). The list waxes and wanes over time, as things improve and get worse again.

Yet, I've never seen a country more willing, or eager, to lend a hand to the international community when there is need. The 2004 tsunami. Hurricane Katrina. Pakistani earthquake. And now, Greece is lending its heart and its politics to helping war-torn Lebanon. One of the first countries to send transport for its citizens in Lebanon, they have helped with numerous evacuations for citizens of the international community. They have sent many shipments of humanitarian aid and supplies, and keep on sending them. They've sent doctors. They've offered to transport humanitarian aid for Lebanon from other countries. And, upon condition of ceasefire, Greece may be sending troops to assist in the peacekeeping mission.

Yea, it would be nice if there could be some focus on the problems at home. But Greece should have some pride in its willingness to help. From the government who is first to send support, to the people who donate whatever little they can to help. It may not be a lot in the whole grand scheme of things, as Greece is a poor country. But they do what they can. And that is more than enough.