Natural Disasters: Mother Nature is Calling, Are You Listening?

Experts have been talking about global warming for a long time. It's hard to ignore the earthquakes in China, the tornadoes in Colorado and the massive droughts that we see right here in our local community. (Fort Lauderdale)

Having experienced the hurricanes in Florida, I know how frightening and traumatic it can be for people. Looking out my window, the lake that was once full is now a shallow pond. The grass which was once green is now brown and ready to burn. Imagine, the death toll in China is over 60,000 and rising! Having your home destroyed is one thing, but to see your children and close family dead is the most heart wrenching thing in the world. So what is really going on in the world today? Everyday, we hear about natural disasters all over the world. Is it not strange how one by one these things are becoming ever more increasing.

According to the Discovery Channel website, 'scientists suggest that these unavoidable events point to a climatic change of unimaginable proportions.' After reading this the first thought that came to my mind was, "What's in store for us next?" So, who do we have to blame for these disasters? Well, we can start with the person reading this article. That's right! Ourselves.

Throughout history, especially in our times, we've heard about the greenhouse effect, global warming, El Nino, deforestation, fossil fuels etc...It should come as no surprise that we're facing an enemy that not even our own political party can protect us from. Mother Nature. When she strikes, no nuclear weapons can protect us from her wrath.

What Should We Do?
Local organizations such as the Red Cross Disaster Relief is always looking for volunteers or contributions. Perhaps, you have the resources available to give that will help aid in such efforts. Another great foundation is found at http://www.networkforgood.com Here you can choose to give money to help with any crisis situation. They are currently accepting donations to help with the relief efforts in China.

We can make small changes that can help save us from impending danger. On a small scale, I make sure that I never waste water. My community is suffering from a drought. I feel that it is in my best interest to save and conserve whatever I can. Can you do the same? Yes. Start small, look for areas where you can conserve. It may be as simple as carpooling to work or recycling.

Take interest in what's going on outside and around you. The earth does not need humans to survive. Sometimes, we take the beauty of life for granted. We have magnificent power in our own hands. Let us create programs that can help the youth of today help save our tomorrow. So many schools try to teach the theory of natural effects. Let us show it to them. Take students outside to see the pollution, show them the forest fires, let them feel the sorrow of the children in China who will never see their parents again. Our children, are our only hope, invest in them. It is so important that we unite on these issues. When a natural disaster strikes, let's be ready to join hands and build back our communities.