Tragedy in Japan

JAPAN IS usually the first among several countries that come to our aid whenever great natural calamities befall our land and people.

Thus, it is with deep sadness that we watched images of massive destruction in the northeastern part of Japan after it was ravaged by a recent magnitude 9 earthquake and a tsunami that furiously swept away buildings, houses and cars as if they were miniature toys, killed thousands of people and crippled a nuclear power plant now emitting radiation. Experts say it may take several years before Japan can get back on its feet from this devastation (which is estimated to have destroyed billions worth of property), even as it may have to deal with a deadly radiation threat for decades.

We mourn the loss of countless lives and grieve with the relatives of the dead. We feel for the victims and the survivors, and with the Japanese people as a whole.

How “moved” are we as a people to extend a helping hand to a friendly nation who has always been ready to help us in our time of need? Are we ourselves prepared for the Big One? Have we been “shaken” enough to make amends and get things right in our corrupt and depraved nation?

“…prepare to meet thy God…” —Amos 4:12

—RENI M. VALENZUELA,
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