There was once a time when Americans could at least be counted on to feel a little guilty about the misfortunes of other people.

Of course, in these apathetic times, it is not surprising.

If it isn’t a huge scandal, you can’t get Americans to watch.

We love the flashy misfortunes of TV talk shows.

The combative loudmouths who parade their issues for entertainment get high ratings.

But when we see real tragedy and misfortune on television, we change the channel so fast we sprain our thumbs.

Right now, in Honduras, the Bay Islands and Nicaragua, millions of people are homeless, and thousands have been killed by Hurricane Mitch.

Every day the numbers of dead, dying and homeless are increasing, and yet the relief efforts could be described as laughable if they were not so pathetic and feeble.

This disaster is without a doubt the most devastating of this decade, and it may well end up being the greatest disaster of this century.

Yet still it receives hardly a mention. Why?

The news barely mentions it anymore, and unless Jerry Springer decides to do a show from Central America, it is highly unlikely that our attention will be refocused there anytime soon.

According to the Friend Ships Web site at www.friendships.org/hurricane.html., there are many charitable options for us to consider right now.

Donations will be needed for some time, and cash contributions can be used to help pay for the cost of relief efforts.

Checks and money orders can be sent to: Friend Ships, ATTN: Hurricane Mitch Relief, 245 N. Fries Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744-5717.

You can also call (310) 830-4433 for more information.

For those who can offer their labor, volunteers can call this number as well. Volunteers with construction skills are especially needed.

If you see an opportunity to contribute, please do so.

Apathy is one thing when it comes to everyday events.

It is almost understandable when people are dulled by repetitious events like voting.

But when it comes to serious disasters, Americans have always been willing and able to lend a hand.

In the past, our generosity has known few limits. Many people around the world have been helped by U.S. efforts.

We hope that won’t change just because apathy has become trendy.