A large earthquake struck northeastern Japan yesterday, reminding many of us how close natural disaster always is. We prepare as best we can, yet unease often arrives long before any shaking begins.
Yesterday, a major earthquake struck off the coast of northeastern Japan.
Warnings were issued across a wide region advising people to remain alert for the possibility of another large quake in the days ahead.
It may take some time before this uneasy feeling fades.
Tokyo and Kanagawa are not necessarily safe either, and needless to say, we all need to stay prepared.
The other day, I watched an NHK program that simulated what would happen if Mount Fuji were to erupt.
The damage caused by volcanic ash alone would be immense, and if lava flows were added to that, the consequences could be devastating.
Whenever I hear or see such reports, I am reminded of the importance of preparation.
Yet even more than that, I am overcome by a quiet fear.
Disasters that come once in years, decades, or centuries will surely come again someday, but no one can say exactly when.
All we can do is wait, while doing what little we can to prepare.
At the very least, I hope nothing happens while I am still alive.
But life rarely follows our wishes so neatly.
It would be troubling if it came tomorrow or the day after, and troubling as well if it came when my body no longer moved as it once did.
Because this planet Earth is still alive and active, humanity has long benefited from its power and abundance.
Yet there is no way for us to know its moods in advance.
Natural upheaval is always near.
We must live with that awareness, and keep ourselves prepared.
We cannot control the earth beneath our feet, but we can choose how calmly and wisely we live upon it.
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