The current issue of Time magazine includes an article on the earthquake in Sichuan Province. The article raises interesting questions about the significance of the timing and location of the earthquake. More specifically, the recent demonstrations in March, and fact that the quake occurred at the boundary of China and Tibet. Given the belief that the government is the "mandate of heaven", some believe that this may be evidence of "heavenly displeasure." The question raised is, can the government cope with this disaster? The world has been watching China, anxiously awaiting the Olympics, which is destined to be the best ever. Now, everyone is watching to see if the Chinese government can be responsive to the humanitarian needs of its people in the wake of a crisis. In preparation for the upcoming Olympic games, it seems that all efforts have been made to take the focus away from China's humanitarian efforts. But a natural disaster has put things back in perspective for all of us.
My heart and prayers are with the families who have suffered overwhelming human loss.
Valerie
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