Many thanks: Recovering from the storm and preparing for the next one
Oct 26, '09 3:25 PM for everyone
Today marks the first month since Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) hit us. The cleanup plus the moments when we race with time due to the intermittent power supply are totally exhausting, and yet these are favorable signs that say we are finally moving on amidst the ruins of the storm (photos below). Our neighborhood is recovering from the disaster and for that I am thankful. But my heart goes out to many of our people who have lost not only their homes but also their families. I wanted to tell friends who asked me if there was anything I needed to give instead to these families through our local agencies receiving donations. But I admit that I've become apprehensive to tell them this, as reports circulated concerning local agencies hoarding the relief goods intended for typhoon victims. Add to that familiar reports on politicians who wouldn't distribute relief goods unless their acts of kindness had media coverage. What's the implication of all these? The Holy Bible is clear in saying, "Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act" (Proverbs 3:27). Could it be that we remain poor as a nation because we are incapable of handling bountiful blessings that come our way? I hear people say that the main problem of our country is the lack of education. But I wonder, how much education does one need to learn to uphold integrity even when no one's looking? Incubation period. Nearly 20 days after the storm, I began monitoring myself for symptoms of leptospirosis. I had fever, coupled with migraine and body pains the past few days. But these were perhaps signs of fatigue due to the busy cleanup after wading through the flood. The good thing is that I feel better now. I must be well. The hospitals here are still full! A message of thanks. This is a late post. But I take this opportunity to thank everyone who had expressed their concern and support for me and our family during and after Typhoon Ondoy:
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Cheli and Roland Aguilar together with their family and friends for