This beautiful photograph was posted on Flickr by photographer Deepa Praveen.
I've been thinking all week about the people in Japan. Seems as though we had just come to terms with the tragedy in Christchurch, New Zealand. And there was Haiti and before that the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. All of the natural disasters that have struck our world fairly recently.
And by "coming to terms", I just mean that the shock has subsided for those of us who are far away. We'll probably never forget those stunning first images when disaster struck but we aren't right there so it's not a part of our daily lives...coming and going to work and school and cleaning the house and making dinner and all the normal, every day activities that we take for granted.
We are often able to donate money or volunteer to work with groups gathering clothing or supplies to be sent to those victims of disasters like the earthquakes and tsunamis. That's great. Any kind of support that we can give helps.
But I am truly in awe of the volunteers who travel to disasters from all parts of the globe. There are so many needs that have to be met besides the financial burdens.
Digging through the ruins looking for victims alive or dead takes a kind of courage that I know I wouldn't have.
Imagine having to comfort those who are in limbo...wondering whether or not they've lost their entire families. Or helping them through their grief when they receive the worst possible news. Making certain that they have medical care and food and water and a place to sleep. Those are massive burdens carried by some remarkable people all over the world. Those volunteers are true heroes.
They are brave and compassionate individuals. I am in awe. We can't thank them, enough.
"Volunteers are not paid -- not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless." Unknown
And, my friends, most of you are already fans of Hilary's blog, but if you have never visited The Smitten Image, you are in for a real treat!
Cheryl - you are so right! It takes a special kind of person to volunteer to go to an area everyone else would rather escape from!
ReplyDeleteThere have been so many natural disasters recently, it makes me truly appreciate how comfortable and easy my life is!
I agree. They really are remarkable people. Service to others is something I could definitely improve on in my life. This is a very thoughtful and respectful post. Thank you for reminding me to really value these people.
ReplyDeleteYou're so right. Those who selflessly volunteer are indeed priceless.
ReplyDeleteOh, I agree, 100%. I've often had the same feelings and thoughts - those volunteers are priceless! And brave! And devoted!
ReplyDeleteThis is a very timely post and oh so true. Loved the quote at the end, too.
ReplyDeleteAmen to this!
ReplyDeleteEntirely true, Cheryl and well-said.
ReplyDeleteYes. They go in when the rest of us go out. They are heroes.
ReplyDeleteOh I so completely agree.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post!
Lovely post, well said xxx
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely tribute to the volunteers!
ReplyDeleteIt's very sad and those are special people who can do that kind of work.
ReplyDeleteI love that last quote - my Mom has actually been to New Orleans three times to rebuild homes - the first year she went she was 67 years old and was putting up a roof!
ReplyDeleteThanks, everyone, for the lovely comments. I often have a hard time expressing my feelings...I know that's hard to believe :-)
ReplyDeleteBut I felt compelled to acknowledge this horrific disaster and I honestly can't imagine being there and dealing with the enormity of it all.
Biz, my dear, how proud you must be of your mom.
In a tragedy there are so many people who are not recognized for their courage and humanity. And to them, it is just something they would not ignore, they don't even hesitate. I am thankful there are still so many people left on this planet who truly care. So much of what is heard in news is negative and unkind we forget that those are just the loud mouths, not the majority of humans.
ReplyDeleteSuch a sad, gut wrenching disaster. I can't even imagine the horror they are going through still and for years to come. Each time the ground shakes and it's probably shaking pretty regularly.
ReplyDeleteI saw a video of a sad, wet dog who would not leave another dog until they were both rescued. It nearly brought tears.
I read just yesterday that we should donate to doctors without borders and that the Japanese don't really need the financial assistance from red cross. I've been trying to confirm that with a few agencies.
Have a good weekend, Cheryl.
Mr. Rogers said that when you are explaining tragedy to young children, you should look for the people who are doing good. You can point to them and say, "See, it's hard and it's scary, but there are good people who are helping."
ReplyDeleteYour blog highlights that so beautifully. You are good.
So true...they are priceless!!!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your POTW award
Hugs
SueAnn
TechnoBabe, you've said it perfectly! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI know, Janell. I saw that dog video, too, and it broke my heart. Thanks for that info about Doctors without Borders...that is such a worthy organization and it makes sense to contribute to them.
Welcome, Marion. Thanks so much for stopping by. That is such good advice...thank you for sharing it with us. I really appreciate your kind comments.
And welcome to you, SueAnn! Thank you so much for the visit!
A huge thank you, Hilary, for honoring this post. I do love visiting your Posts of the Week. Great laughs, photos, and wonderful reading. Kind of like a Readers' Digest of blogs!
ReplyDelete