Devastation

Every type of catastrophic event leaves devastation behind. Some allow more preparation while others are bolt-out-of-the-blue. Some leave bits and pieces of property to be recovered. Others leave nothing but ashes or bare concrete slabs.

Outsiders are grateful for lives saved. Victims wonder how they will start over. Some blame God. Others blame karma. The truth lies in our planet's day-to-day rhythms.

Of all the catastrophic events, only fire can be started with purpose. Not all fires are arson. Many are started by lightning.

Humans look for someone to blame when disaster strikes. That's a natural reaction--part of the grieving process that we go through when dealing with the terrible aftermath. It takes a while to accept that things are never going to be the same.

Some will pray. Some will cry. Others will use anger to cope. Where there are extended family or friend networks, the victims will most likely recover more quickly because they'll have someone to hold on to.

As a species, we are amazingly adaptable. If we weren't, we would never have survived so long. That doesn't mean we don't occasionally need a helping hand or a hug or an attentive ear.

If you're in a position to pitch in, please do so. In the end, we are all one.

anny