THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM

Today as we await the fury of the strong typhoon Rolly threatening yet to become a super typhoon, everyone I met in my walk this morning seem calm.  The sky was clear, free from clouds and the sun was shining bright.  I felt like it was too quiet for comfort since I learned that the calm is caused by the dry air left behind when the unstable, warm and moist air is being sucked into the typhoon system. . 

But I couldn't deny the undercurrent of nervousness around while others in far flang provinces maybe feeling fearful because of the damage it can do to their properties.  My heart goes out to people in provinces where the last typhoon Quinta devastated their homes, livestock and crops.  Now it looks like this next typhoon is headed their way once again.  On the flip side, many are also in denial, hoping against hope that it will change course so as not to disturb their lives. 

We all know the extent of what a typhoon can do, the falling down of trees and electric posts rendering loss of power.  The surroundings will be dark and our refrigerators won't work. Moreover, our cell phones and gadgets will not work as well to the frustration of many. 

Farmers fear for their crops especially at this time when harvest is near.  Some also need to protect their homes especially if they are made of lighter materials that could easily be blown away rendering them  homeless. 

Fishermen were already warned not to go out to sea and secure their bangcas instead.  There are places where the people's only source of food and income is fishing making thier situation doubly difficult. 

Of course we have no way of preventing nature's wrath,  we can only soften the blow if we are prepared.  Experts warn to anticipate hazards like falling trees, storm surge, landslides and floods so we know how to protect ourselves.  Broadcasters on tv and radio give hourly updates and advise the public to be ready with essentials like drinking water, flashlights, candles, ready-to-eat food,  batteries, etc.  To reinforce  plants; dismantle weak/ temporary structures, secure items in the garage and everything lying around outside the house. 

Lastly, lets pray for safe deliverance, the Oratio Imperata is a suggested prayer not only for protection against COVID 19 but also for other disasters. 

I like to quote my friend Nina's post on Facebook today telling us to have faith: hopefully, it will keep our anxiety at bay: 

"We may not understand why we are going through difficult times, but don't try to figure it out.  Not matter what happens, keep trusting God. Do not let fear and doubt rob us of our hopes.  He knows how to bless us in unexpected ways, let us not lean on our own understanding.  He will make straight our paths. Maniwala, Magtiwala, Magtiaga.( believe, trust and be patient)." 

Stay safe everyone, be prepared and alert. Hopefully the typhoon will not come during the night.