I took a break from work this morning and went to one of my favorite places, Descanso Gardens. As I walked by the Japanese Tea House and Gardens, I said a prayer for all those in Japan who are affected by this devastating earthquake and tsunami and also the nuclear disaster. My heart breaks for them, as I cannot imagine the untold suffering and utter despair that they are going through and will for a long time to come. How does one recover from something like this?
Having lived through a few large earthquakes, I cannot wrap my brain around the utter devastation that I see on CNN. Living in Southern California, we have always been told, as far back as I can remember, that the BIG one is coming and to be prepared (most are not). Japan is one of the most-prepared countries for such a disaster on the face of this earth; however, even they could not be prepared for what was unleashed upon them one week ago today. My mouth dropped as I watched the tsunami as it was happening, in real-time, a week ago tonight. I could not believe what I was seeing. The wave washed over farmland, carrying boats, houses and destroying everything in its path. I keep thinking that mankind, in its arrogance, thinks that it has everything "figured out". Not. We are in no way a match for nature and its absolute power. All we can do is be prepared, the best that we can, and if and when something happens, be there for each other.
What strikes me is the Japanese people's civility, even in the face of this unimaginable tragedy. No looting, no anger; such grace. I so respect them - I think we can all learn a lesson from them.
7 comments:
Yes, we could learn a lesson from the people of Japan. I see a great sadness, a nation that is in pain and yet there is no whinning, no complaining about who is responsible... And you know that our incessant, American Media blitzing, embedded reporters would find the complaining if they could.
But no! The people are doing what needs to be done. They are taking care of business and picking up the pieces. They are brave, taking care of one another and are a shinning example of the Buddhist philosophy of RIGHT ACTION...a code of ethics that everything and everyone matters and the fundamental rule is not to cause pain.
You bet there is a lesson to be learned here.
It's such a tragedy and Japan needs all the prayers and support they can get as they begin the process of recovery. Thanks for posting on this!
Sue what a beautiful post you have written.
I am saddened to by such devastation to this country. How they can keep going and recovering from this is a miracle alone.
When I complain about my back problems I feel ashamed of myself when I think of Japan.
Thank you for reminding us of how our problems are so small.
Also I appreciate all of your get well wishes for me. I can not tell you how much I appreciate you
Love ya
Maggie
An eye-opener for sure seeing the Japanese people handle this devastation with such grace and faith.
Hugs
Diana
We could learn a lesson from the Japanese.
They are full of grace and they are making it together.
I am so impressed.
I am so glad you posted this.
Blessings all over you!
Beautiful picture. I was also so impressed with the way that the Japanese people handled the aftermath. I've never understood why things like looting even exist in a time of crisis.
We don't seem to hear much about this now do we. Yes they are a very graceful people.
Do stop over and say hi when you get the time.
Lorraine :-}
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