On My Mind

A blog has been perched at the tip of my tongue for weeks, yet I haven't found the right words and enough of them to write something decent. Many things have happened this last month and with it has come many thoughts to mind. Some very frustrating ones and to be honest, they are the hardest to release, so this is my opportunity to let them out.

The past month has been an emotional rollercoaster in the history of the world. I believe it was just over a month ago that Christchurch, NZ was hit by a magnitude 6.4earthquake, claiming hundreds of lives. Everyone knows of someone that has been affected if not directly then through a friend or family member. The images of the injured and buildings turned to rubble on television, the demand to send medical workers and aid, the fundraising to send money to the Red Cross, we have all made a contribution. Along with the trusting help from surrounding countries.

On March the 11th, Japan was struck by a 9.8 magnitude earthquake. Although the buildings were well prepared to take such a shake, the country was not prepared for the 10 metre tsunami that was to follow, wiping out the coast of Japan. Watching on the news the sheer force and strength of Mother Nature as it tore through farmland, swept buildings, cars and boats in land, made us feel utterly helpless. At this time, a number has not been confirmed as to the loss of lives, but it is estimated in the thousands, keeping in mind the many villages that have been wiped out.

It makes me consider what I would do in that situation, completely numb with helplessness and fear. My heart goes out to the people having been effected by the multiple disasters.

As a friend said, these situations bring out the best and the worst in people. I was disappointed and shocked to see that a number of heartless human beings had published updates on Facebook about how the disaster was 'karma' for what happened at Pearl Harbour back in 1941. Seventy odd years ago. I cannot accept that these people have continued to bring up the past to find reason and put blame on something that, this time, is consequently something that Mother Nature and the reality of living on planet Earth, has brought on. It makes me sad to think that they are so narrow minded and live with tunnel vision.

Therefore, I am thankful of an open-mind, to understand and accept realities. However hard they may hit. It seems many are still living in the past. After reading and seeing peoples reaction to the news, it has made me more aware of the importance of forgiveness. In order to move on, we need to learn to forgive. Not necessarily forget.