My days have been so busy so far doing all the check-ups and medical tests I need for my coming operation. Despite my own needs and personal issues in life, I remind myself to set aside my own concerns to take time to help pray for the people in Turkey and Syria after the earthquakes. It is impossible for me to forget such tragedies.
When the deadly earthquake of magnitude 7.8 and 7.6 hit Turkey and regions of Syria, it took away tens of thousands of lives. It was just hard to believe it really was happening before our own eyes. I thought the disaster can only be seen in movies. Tall buildings collapsed in just a blink of an eye, with people living in it were left underneath the rubbles.
Thousands of lives were buried alive. Those who survived are considered God’s miracle. To be buried by those heavy rubbles and to be taken out alive is by the power of God. Watching the news in television or in social media was just heart wrenching. Our hearts grieve with the families and victims who lost loved ones.
Turkey and Syria were just in great distress and devastation in need of help and prayer. Nations and people of the world were moved and are working hand in hand. The Philippines sent out search and rescue team as well.
People rejoiced with joy for every life that was taken out of the rubbles especially the little children. But it really breaks our heart seeing many people enduring physical and emotional trauma, losing families and loved ones.
Love and compassion can break all bounderies. Here in the Philippines the second collection during Masses was raised intended to help the earthquake victims or in any way we can extend our help. We may reach them with our love no matter how small or big it may be. May God comfort the grieving families and heal all wounds and come to their needs.
May the love and compassion of the world warm their dark and freezing times. May those who lost lives find eternal peace in God’s paradise and see his glory. May all the rescuers be protected from all harms and dangers and return back to their own families safe and sound. And may the people of Turkey and Syria rise above their sufferings.
Lynn Salinas-Batoliño
The Philippines
