We have only lived here for four years and certainly don't have a full grasp on the culture yet.
One thing is ABSOLUTELY true ... Haitian people are tough, strong , brave , and tenacious. Most of them have been suffering for decades and decades and have seen more than you can imagine.
The amount of the current suffering caused by the earthquake cannot possibly be known right now ... the numbers cannot be estimated. But, if the way they deal with day to day hardship is any indication - the people of Haiti will rise.
Pray for the trapped, pray for the hurt. Send your money to organizations sending medical help.