It is with a heavy heart that I celebrate the coming of 2005. While most of the world brings in the new year with joy and community, ! can’t help but think of the immmense pain and suffering of those who have been devestated by the effects of the tsunami across the Indian Ocean.
From Somalia to Thailand, over 150,000 have died as a direct result of the tsunami, and possibly multiples more will die as a result of disease, homelessness and dymanic effects of the incredible tragedy.
At times like this, what do you do? A person without medical skill, or without the skill or ability to travel over there and assist with the reconstruction of the region can do very little. It’s terribly sad.
Donations are my only advice. For Aussies, the ANZ and Westpac Banks are providing “donation broking” services, where you go into the bank and they will help you with a range of care organisations.
Otherwise, just do whatever you can – go directly to the aid organisations such as World Vision, who have a direct donation webpage. Donate clothes, money, whatever.
This is a far greater tragedy than any rubbish that terrorism can throw up – this is a truly global catastrophe. Let us hope it gives those who would choose to turn humanity against itself a reason to reflect upon the insignificant nature of humanity and our humility in the face of nature.