I was in Manila when I first heard about the earthquake that hit some areas in Negros Oriental. I did not know its intensity until after I saw some pictures on Facebook, and read the news about how many people were affected, and how some even lost their lives.
I could not begin to reconcile upon myself how unfortunate those affected people are. It is unnerving to know that my family could have been easily affected by the earthquake, too, being in Bindoy, only a few kilometers away from the center of the devastation.
I am relieved that they were spared, but I am equally sad for those who had to suffer the loss of lives, livelihood, and property, among others. Amidst all these turmoil, I still cannot fathom the purpose of this catastrophe.
Numerous people in our Province were affected. The effect just varies in terms of degree. Those who have been spared are in the best position to help those who now have to rebuild.
I appeal to everyone’s generosity to help the victims. Let us help them, let us share a part of our blessings to them. We are all connected in more ways than one, in ways greater than we can ever imagine.
The bad or the good that a single person does will have an effect on another person somewhere, sometime. Let us help one another especially during these times of difficulty. Let us pray for them, and extend help in every way we can.
Amidst the chaos, let us not forget to pray. As my heart sympathizes with my fellow Negrenses, I am offering this prayer to everyone, to those who died, to those who lost their family, to those who continue to give unwavering support to the victims, and to my beloved Province:
Oh, God our Father, in faith, we acknowledge your paternal care over us, your sons, daughters and children. In hope, we trust in your divine providence of giving us wisdom and courage as we face the challenges in life. In love, we invoke your help and guidance during these difficult days of death and destruction in our dear country.
Ours is a prayer of thanksgiving for once again reminding us that ours is an imperfect world, that heaven is not on earth, and that nature every now and then tells us not to abuse her.
Ours, too, is a prayer of repentance for calling upon you when we are in need and desperation, but forgetting you in favorable times and pleasing occasions.
Ours, as well, is a prayer of petition as we say: Grant eternal peace to those who lost their lives. Embrace the children who died in their innocence. Help those who are hurt, and cure those who are sick.
Encourage those who suffer the destruction of their homes and properties, and to once again stand up and rebuild their future.
Bless all those who extend their helping hands to those in need of food, shelter and clothing, who share their time, talents and resources with others.
Inspire more people to be men and women for their neighbors, convinced that the more they are for others, the taller they stand before you.
Spare us please from other natural disasters and devastation if this be according to Your will, and for our own spiritual good and growth. Amen.
Prayers and any form of donation will be of great help. May you and your families always find protection and comfort amidst the storms of life, and may we all regularly bring the Lord’s presence, and help to those we encounter daily.
