[SEL] Fires in Austalia

[Jim Hardman]

Reg and Marg,

We have been corresponding with folks in Wagga Wagga and have learned more about the fires than we would normally get in news coverage.  Yes, there are pictures on TV and the news is reporting updates on the fires and devastation here in the states, but the media tends to be self-centered, leaning towards local news and problems of the homeland.  And being in the middle of winter here in Vermont, with a foot of snow on the ground and four foot snow embankments along the driveway, it's hard to imagine the heat and trials that you and your countrymen are enduring.

The Lord didn't create us to be self-centered, we are of one family, humanity, that struggles with problems from the moment we are born.  A lot of our troubles are of our own making, we do dumb things and then have to pay the price.  But a lot of troubles seem to just come upon us... storms, floods, high winds and fires.  We don't grow old before we see first hand the pain of living, the sufferings of others.  It doubly hurts when it is learned that some of the fires were purposely set by unthinking, imbalanced people.

We care.  And there's not much anyone can do from a distance except pray... and for those of us who can, contribute to an appropriate relief fund.

Our hearts go out to all who are homeless, for all who have lost loved ones.  Most Americans feel a deep and enduring affection, indeed love, towards the Australian people.  You have been loyal friends and that is embedded in our hearts.  The Aussies are a kindred folk, respected and esteemed.  Maybe the news media doesn't do justice to either the events or the relationships, but I can tell you first hand that we feel your pain and pray for your relief.

We hope that you and your loved ones are safe.  No, I confess I don't know the geography, but see the fires in NSW and know that there are a lot of families in danger.

My wife, and yes, the entire SE List, join with others in prayer for relief and recovery.

Warm Regards,   Jim in Vermont, USA