Face the Storm With A Steadfast Heart

Written by JP Carlos

The looming devastation due to Typhoon Ruby (the international name is Hagupit) puts the mood of the Philippines in one that is contemplative, anxious and fearful.  After the rampage of Typhoon Yolanda, people in the Visayas region of the country are without doubt full of fear.  But in spite of the imminent danger, they hold a steadfast belief that they will overcome this hurdle.  And for the rest of the country, and the world, we just can’t do much but wait.

In several hours the typhoon will unleash its power over the Philippines.  In particular the Visayas region previously decimated by typhoon Yolanda.  .  With wind speeds reaching 215 km/h near the center and gusts up to 250 km/h, this is gearing up to be a formidable challenge for everyone.  What is worse is that this typhoon has slowed down to 13 km/h which means it will take longer for this massive storm to leave the Philippines. The longer it stays here, the more damage it can do.

Everyone is praying for the safety of the people.  And I admire those that put faith at the center of this potential crisis.  However, it is also prudent to prepare for the onslaught.  Food, medicines, clothing, water, lights and everything that is necessary should be secured.  Although as much as 95% of the population have been evacuated, it remains to be seen if these evacuation centers can withstand the storm and the possible four-meter storm surges.  Praying can help ease the spirit in times like these.  It can give hope when there seems none at all.  But doing something more than just idly waiting for the storm to hit is a more practical step.  When everything is all prepared, we leave it all up to prayer to ease our minds.  We can only do so much.  But when we cling to a higher power, we often outdo ourselves.

As we countdown to the inevitable destruction, the whole country and the whole world watches.  But I hope that in watching, we share a little prayer and prepare to help when the time warrants it.  We face the storm with a steadfast heart and a faithful soul.