Self-centred?

Something that worries me. The news from Japan is terrible, of this there is no doubt. Tens of thousands have lost their lives; tens of thousands are suffering unimaginably. The effects on those who have survived cannot be calculated. It must be a matter of absolute obviousness that we all must give what we can to help. Be it through simple donations to the relevant charities, or through our prayers, or, if we are lucky enough to be able, by our physical presence to lift, move, rescue or bury, care for and rebuild the lost communities.
Why then is the British news so concentrated on reporting we are sending this group or that group, or that group is packing so many boxes of tents and supplies? As well as using up so much TV news time interviewing leaders of one organisation or another involved in sending aid to Japan?
All this work and aid is obvious and necessary and would be a matter of unforgivable shame if we did not make this effort. But what is really important is what is happening on the ground in Japan. We are in a very real danger of patting ourselves too much on the back without analysing the effectiveness of the relief efforts and making sure those who are in real need get the help they require.