Lessons in grief

Lessons in grief

July 2011

By Life Positive

Why was Japan subjected to yet another catastrophe? Was my first thought when I heard about the massive March 11 earthquake and ensuing tsunami that left nearly 20,000 people dead or missing.

Stories of destruction and despair poured in. Children maimed, another generation to pay a price for the nuclear disaster. Was this the precursor to the end of world? Was 2012 happening?

And then came stories of another kind – of resilience, courage, self-discipline, calm, generosity.

They drew a picture of a dignified, disciplined society pulling together after the disaster, to help each other without greed or panic.

And truly, I can’t think of a better example right now of a strong community – one that has established trust, caring and giving so well that it holds true even in such disastrous conditions. People noted with admiration the almost total absence of social disorder following Japan’s worst national disaster since 1923.

Even my son, Siddart, not so much a believer in God as of now, was moved to send me a message that said, “The rest of the world has a lot to learn from Japan – especially Indians. If we can accept our so-called problems quietly, God will surely help.”

When I pondered further, I thought of my own learnings. I realised that there is always a ray of hope as long as we are alive. Surely there is something we can do to reach out to each other? We are witnessing the transitory nature of material wealth and advanced technology. And we are recognising that only spiritual wealth will see us through. And what is that based on? Spiritual wealth lies in strong community relationships.

Jamuna Rangachari, Mumbai.