The power of nature is a fierce reminder that we humans mustn’t get too cocky. Yet, with all the devastation, there is a message that is beginning to resonate — it is ubiquitous on many websites, and it is another powerful force: the power of caring. Everywhere you look, people are stepping up to help. People care. Prayers are being shared for those who have lost their lives — who have lost their families, belongings — entire towns. I would be willing to bet that the people of Japan are in the hearts and minds of most of us now, as their country is grappling with one of the most horrific disasters they’ve ever known.

The caring for Japan, just as the caring for New Orleans, Haiti, New Zealand — and so many other areas of the world that have been dealt severe blows by nature, will need to go on for quite a long time. Thankfully, I suspect this will happen. The message to do good, to give, to help others, is a message we’ve been cultivating in many of our schools for years. From what I see, it’s taking hold. Somewhere along the line, we’ve been doing something right. We’ve been laying the foundation for socially responsible, caring individuals. We’re raising a generation of citizens who are interested in making major changes in the way the world works, and I’ve been lucky enough to have met many of them.

The power to care, to love across nations, is not limited to times when nature shakes a fist, and stomps a beastly foot. Young people determined to make a difference in the world are finding creative ways to solve difficult problems by using the power of caring — the power of love. I met a young woman recently who has set up a company with the potential to bring about a sea change in a part of the world that desperately needs one. Her company is called, Love Begins with L. www.lovebeginswithl.com. Visit the website — you’ll be amazed by what she’s doing.

The power of caring — the power of love. It can actually compete with the power of nature, because love is a life force too.