THE GRIM REAPER OF DISASTER

There are fears that America could be affected by nuclear fallout from Japan.  The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has admitted it's possible that the fallout could reach the United States this coming week.  The catastrophic earthquake in Japan has caused a destructive nuclear disasters second only to Chernobyl.  Scientists warned yesterday of a 'worst case scenario' in which the highly radioactive material could be blasted into the atmosphere and blown toward the West Coast. "Right now it's quite possible that there could be some radiation floating over the United States," said Nuclear Regulatory  Commission spokesman David McIntyre.

The chief nuclear plant manager wept as the Japanese finally admit that the radiation is serious enough to kill many people. They didn't act fast enough and the truth is coming into light; there will be long term affects.

California is monitoring the situation in hopes of keeping a handle on things, which is frightening because they can't even monitor the levels of garbage in their tap water!  Potassium iodide (the treatment for radiation fallout) is disappearing off the shelves and the people of this nation would like the truth, the hole truth and nothing but the truth; not after the fact.  I don't want to glow in the dark!

We are headed for very shaky times.  You can choose your opinions, but you can't choose your facts.  I am not a rocket scientist, but I know that sizable earthquakes cause a shifting in other parts of the world. I have read reports from several seismologists who all agree, more quakes are coming that are equal or greater to the ones we have witnessed.

The head of Italy's National Institute of Geophysics, Enzo Bosch, said that the impact was strong enough to disturb the Earth's rotation and a sizable earthquake can affect the way the planet spins on its axis. Boschi explains that the rotating Earth resembles a spinning top. The planet's axis does not always point in exactly the same direction, but wobbles slightly, describing small measurable circles at the poles.  A very large earthquake, one of a magnitude of 9.0 or greater, can shift enough mass relative to that of the entire Earth and alter the rotation.  It is recorded that the earthquakes in Japan has shifted the Earth's axis 6.5 inches.

The laws of physics proves that in order for something to move, it must be hit with greater or equal force. When the Earth shifts dramatically, the pressure is going to have an affect on other parts of the world.  This national disaster has completely reshaped the coast line of Japan and the visible signs are shocking.  The tsunami carved out two bays, thousands of feet inland and buried homes and businesses in its unforgiving path.  

Let's take a closer look at our own lives. How can we be prepared to overcome a disaster of this magnitude?  Emergency preparedness has warned us to have a duffle bag packed with warm clothing, a blanket, a first aid kit and enough food and water for 72 hours (for every family member). The duffle bags should be kept where they can easily be accessed in case of an emergency.  It only takes ten minutes to put this kit together, but it could save lives during a crises.  It would be very painful to explain anything to your children when they are cold and hungry. 

Mother Nature is not a respecter of persons and Father Time, waits for no one.  It would be smarter to be prepared than to come, face to face, with the Grim Reaper. By, Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day. 

THE LUCK OF THE IRISH

My great grandfather migrated to the United States from Cork County, Ireland, during the potato famine in 1845.  My father had a great love for the Irish traditions and when my brother was born, my father gave him the Irish name of "Paddy" for his middle name.  I thought it was a fine name, but as we got older, my brother promised to break my arm in two places if I ever told anyone!  So, mum was the word, but as you can see - I am not taking it to the grave.  

Today is the celebration of St Patrick's Day.  It was originally an important religious day and a celebration of the teachings of Christianity, by St Patrick.  I don't know if, St Patrick, would be green with envy in the commercialization of his special occasion or how he would feel about a breakfast of green eggs and ham... and certainly pinching him would be out of the question!

I have always considered myself to have the luck of the Irish and although, I have never kissed the Blarney Stone, been to Bilberry Sunday or died my hair green; the Irish blood proudly runs through my veins.  I too, love the traditions of my father, and I'm almost certain that there's a little leprechaun waiting for me at the end of the rainbow with a pot of gold, or a pot of stew or whatever he has in that pot of his.  

It's one fine St Patrick's Day!  By, Linda Sumner Urza

JAPAN'S HELL AND HIGH WATER

March 11, 2011, a massive 8.9/9.0 magnitude earthquake hit the Pacific Ocean nearby Northeastern Japan around 2:46 p.m. causing tsunamis, blackouts, fires and nuclear explosions.  The survivors, who have nothing left, refuse to give up hope.  

There are many lessons to be learned from this tragedy that will enlighten our future.  Even though it's difficult to focus on enlightenment in the midst of crises, we can be greatly inspired through the strength of others. 

I watched in horror, along with most of the world, as the tsunami swept away the lives of many.  I found myself in tears and tried to imagine how one could deal with such tremendous loss; husbands hunting for wives and mother searching for their small children.  I cried, as did many around the world.  We stayed glued to our glass screens as if watching this national disaster unfolding on a crystal ball, and nothing could be done to stop the horrific images.

What have I learned from this tragedy?  I have learned that there are many powerful demands within the natural elements.  I have learned that thousands of lives can slip away in the blink of an eye, but there is a great resiliency of human strength and courage in the face of death.  I witnessed the depth of despair in the hallow faces, yet saw something almost sacred within their eyes.  It was a childlike innocence, to remind us of how vulnerable we can become in the midst of chaos.    

Also, I have learned that the integrity of the Japanese people is beyond reproach! There is absolutely no looting, stealing, or gangs pilfering the land; for you see, it's beneath Japanese culture to descend to that level of disrespect. They share what provisions they have with one another, and when it's gone - they all go without! The nights have been bitterly cold with temperatures barely above zero and many have no blanket, water or food.

Fresh water is scarcely available and when the water trucks are empty, people wait patiently for several hours for another truck to return; no yelling, no protests and no unkind words! I see many carrying the elderly on their backs and walking for miles to safety. I watched as tender hands pulled a little child from the deep rubble and then the humble crowd celebrates the victory of one more life!   

This horrific event has touched the hearts of millions around the world and set a standard of excellence in the face of disaster.  Our compassion and prayers go out to the many people of Japan who are suffering.  May we all come together to lift their burdens in the coming hours of darkness, and as we watch from the warmth of our surroundings, a peace will come knowing that we have made an effort to ease their pain. 

Please, please donate to the Red Cross - even if it's only a couple of dollars, it will make a difference!  By, Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day.