A Field of Rice and Raisins

From around the world, word has it that the tsunami disaster is no longer mentioned in the daily press. Television coverage has stopped and the world's attention is onto bigger and better, more novel and interesting events. The people's lives here remain relatively unchanged and their misery only magnifies itself as they begin to reflect and repeatedly wake up with the same recurrent reality. In time, they will understand that this is the real thing, not a dream, nightmare or figment of anyone's imagination. This is the real thing. And when they've adequately convalesced and they go back to their homes to find absolutely nothing, I cannot imagine how they will begin again. It's not about replanting a bum crop or a field of rice or raisins that needs recultivating. They are no fields. There is nothing. How will they feed themselves until nature decides to replenish the stores and return from her sabbatical? Today, I worked hard liaising, coordinating, programming, planning and educating. I really enjoy finding solutions. The hospital ward continues to inspire me as I watch people work tirelessly. The Danish staff is compassionate and competent. The local staff is dedicated and gentle, caring and present. My translator, Dina, stepped forward and visited the patients, as well. Yesterday, she was withdrawn and uninvolved. Her primary concern was going to the mosque to pray. I told her that God in action is more important than prayer at the mosque. Serving people in pain, in need is a privilege God gives us. Turning our backs on these people doesn't appear to me to be God's understanding or will. Today, she sat and spoke with people in pain and in need. I contacted some organizations today looking for prosthetic legs for the patients who lost limbs in the tsunami. At this time, there is no system for this, but there will be and if not, I will get the funding for these people. The patient from last night who hadn't smiled since the dreaded wave was smiling. His family was so grateful and expressed their delight because their loved one saw some light knowing that he will be held and cared for. In addition, I am working on trying to find wheelchairs for the people to be more mobile. The sky is the limit here. Any opportunity to give must be seized. What more can I say?