Disaster Preparedness

By

Emilio Chaviano

March 15, 2011

Disasters can be man-made or the result of the awesome forces of nature. The unfolding tragedy in Japan transcends the local impact and sends shockwaves across the world. The images we see via television and the stories we read are heartbreaking. Disasters strike nations, but the suffering is felt by individuals. You have possibly heard that Japan is one of the best prepared countries in the world to deal with a disaster. I think it is important for individuals to prepare for national or personal tragedy. Here are some thoughts: Live an ordered life. Get and keep all your personal affairs in order and make sure others know what to do for you in an emergency. Spiritual practices such as weekly public worship, study, prayer, meditation and service help us to get order into life.  Live a life of service and practice helping others who are facing illness or other setbacks. Being a “responder” to the needs of others will help us to better face our own emergencies. Live as an involved member of your community. Community includes family, close friends, faith groups and neighbors. Isolation compounds national and personal disasters while dependable people usually get support from others in times of need.  Keep your life uncomplicated. A simple, quiet life is less likely to lead to disaster. Scripture tells us about the wise man who built his house on a solid foundation and the fool who built on sand. The worse type of disaster is the one we help create ourselves. Building on a geological fault line, neglecting physical health, and ignoring spiritual and moral laws are just a few examples of disasters waiting to happen.  The United States is leading the way as other nations send all kinds of assistance to disaster stricken Japan. Likewise, don’t be too proud to ask your supporters to give you a helping hand and to offer you wise counsel. Last, but not least, don’t wait for a crisis to tell the people who matter most to you how much you love them.