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Learning from tragedy

Super typhoon Haiyan teaches me a few things. They make up the highlights of my week -

Realization that it could happen to anyone. Not that I welcome something terrible, but it's better to be prepared for an eventuality the best way possible.

A keener sense of gratitude for the fact that my family is all right and no one I know is hurt. Two years ago we went to this island for a reunion. I cherish the memories now more than ever.


Appreciation for things usually taken for granted. I barely noticed these skies above our rental resort until I had to watch the Haiyan destruction -

Skywatch: the family reunion sky

Urgency to help. It's probably due to awareness of issues around donations or charity work that I tend to find out a few details first before I get involved. This time I extend whatever I can without question. I'll give give give - just spare my loved ones.

Giving up some comfort for a time; deliberately not hanging out in places like this -

Mellow Yellows: TWG tea can

I love my high teas. But in the wake of Haiyan, sitting in posh chairs sipping from china is a weekend routine I decide to refrain from doing for now. A little weaning won't kill.  I'm thankful for the lessons.

Monday Blues: the blue swan cup

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  1. A Bit of the BlarneyNovember 15, 2013 at 7:08 PM

    A wonderful reflection. Truly inspirational! Wishing you well and thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  2. DiannaNovember 15, 2013 at 7:34 PM

    Hazel, what a beautiful post of thanksgiving for the awakening in your heart of just how tragedy such as Hayian can touch down anywhere...and how sensitive it has made you to the needs of others. I've enjoyed being here today.

    ReplyDelete
  3. DorotheeNovember 15, 2013 at 9:16 PM

    thanks for sharing these reflections. it's on my mind, too: the beauty of skies, and the pain skies can bring, like with Hayian

    ReplyDelete
  4. MelissaNovember 15, 2013 at 9:29 PM

    Very well said. It's sad that it sometimes takes a tragedy for us to realize just how blessed we are.

    ReplyDelete
  5. AnonymousNovember 15, 2013 at 10:35 PM

    So very true. A lovely post.

    ReplyDelete
  6. AnonymousNovember 15, 2013 at 11:01 PM

    You're beautiful, thoughtful and kind.

    ReplyDelete
  7. KathieNovember 15, 2013 at 11:02 PM

    Such awful devastation! So glad that your loved ones are safe. I'm praying for those who were affected. We're hoping to have a benefit here on the island for them.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Barbara H.November 16, 2013 at 4:23 AM

    Wonderful post. It is good to let these things soak into our lives and affect our thoughts and actions rather than just letting them pass by on the news.

    ReplyDelete
  9. WillowNovember 16, 2013 at 2:28 PM

    I'm so glad your family is safe. I thought about you when I heard about the storm in The Philippines knowing you have family there.

    It's true that we tend to take everything for granted until something jerks us into awareness.

    ReplyDelete
  10. 'TsukiNovember 16, 2013 at 8:20 PM

    What an ambrosia it must be, a nice cup of that tea... What an inspired reflection !

    ReplyDelete
  11. AnonymousNovember 16, 2013 at 10:41 PM

    Great shot and glad you all are safe ~ Nature can be rather dangerous to say the least ~ be well and safe and thanks for 'visiting' ~ carol, xxx

    ReplyDelete
  12. MikeNovember 18, 2013 at 5:46 AM

    Absolutely wonderful post.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Alan BurnettNovember 18, 2013 at 2:33 PM

    So glad you and you family are safe. You speak with such wisdom. Here's hoping you will be able to enjoy your weekend tea again in peace and safety soon.

    ReplyDelete
  14. lina@home tipsNovember 18, 2013 at 3:56 PM

    You're right. Tragedy may give us important lessons.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Little Wandering WrenNovember 18, 2013 at 5:05 PM

    Dearest Hazel
    Written so well, with feeling... So glad you and your family and friends are all safe.
    Hugs Wren x

    ReplyDelete
  16. JennyNovember 18, 2013 at 8:27 PM

    Food for thought. xo Jenny

    ReplyDelete
  17. bj November 18, 2013 at 8:30 PM

    What a sweet outlook. So glad you are safe, as well as your family and friends.
    Happy Blue Monday.

    ReplyDelete
  18. SmilingSallyNovember 18, 2013 at 10:04 PM

    Hello Hazel,

    You summed it up nicely.

    Thanks for sharing your blue cup.

    Happy Blue Monday!

    ReplyDelete
  19. LVNovember 19, 2013 at 3:36 AM

    You are exactly right, you never know what will strike or happen to you. The weather has really been crazy all over this year. I am truly thankful I go thorough another day safely and well.

    ReplyDelete
  20. joyh82November 19, 2013 at 8:07 AM

    Great post and photos. Pretty box of tea too. :) Have a wonderful week.

    ReplyDelete

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