Thoughts on the Coming Storm

The aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan

Natural disasters like hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones are an unfortunate consequence of living with a complex weather system. While the existence of these events is nothing new to us, the increasing severity of these “super-storms,” warrants consideration for the implications and outcomes of future catastrophes.

While my initial thoughts lean toward the humanitarian crisis an event like this causes, I am reminded how impractical idealism is during a time like this. Like many, I feel compelled to help, yet the ironic reality is if I were to fly to the far side of the world to help someone who has lost everything, I as a result of neglecting my own obligations, risk losing the same. Fortunately there are those who are ready, prepared, and able to assist in these types of crises, and I want to take a moment to say I admire them for their altruistic nature almost as much as I appreciate their dedication to their fellow man. To the average person, the extent of our assistance may be texting a donation via smartphone to offer some help; and during a moment like this, any help, even the seemingly trivial, is welcome.

Text REDCROSS to 90999 to give $10 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief, which helps people affected by disasters such as hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, wildfires and tornadoes.

Second to the humanitarian needs, my thoughts dwell on the future of humanity in the face of increasing frequency and severity of these types of events in a world were the population is growing, resources are dwindling, and tempers are rising like the climate. On a personal note, the aftermath of Super-storm Sandy opened my eyes to the potential ruin of civilized society if ever there were a global catastrophe. The “Doomsday Preppers,” may seem crazy but there is some wisdom in their dire warnings. I saw first hand the anarchic potential disasters like these can cause. Around here there were people in mile-long lines for gasoline so they could power their generators only to wind up fighting with each other when the pumps ran dry for the day, heard stories on the news about people stealing generators from back yards, and saw the desperation in people’s eyes as they looked toward those in positions of power for help.

Like there is no way to prevent a natural disaster, I fear there is no way to prevent the natural disaster of humanity’s urge for survival at all costs. If the world does plunge into a global crisis, it will be the true test of our human nature. Will we turn to altruism or anarchy? Metaphorically speaking, my hope is like the aftermath of a super-storm, the good in humanity will shine through like the sun. Unfortunately, before the sun of humanity can shine through we will have to endure all the events of a storm: clouds that block our vision, winds that test our structures, and a storm surge testing our resolve and ability to stand our ground.