Thoughts and Prayers for all those who are suffering from the aftermath of the Tornado.

From Eric and Lesley Dlugokinski

Our blog is called "Thoughts from the Heartland" and today we are grief-stricken by the events in the Heartland of the United States, Oklahoma. Once again tornadoes have devastated peoples' lives and we send heartfelt thoughts and prayers for all those who are suffering unspeakable grief and loss. Sadly and astonishingly, the path of the tornado through the town of Moore was very similar to that of the tornado that was so destructive in May,1999.

We know that there is nothing we can say to ease the pain, but we wanted to at least recognize that something terrible has happened here. As always, Oklahoma is rallying with help and support, just like we did after the devastation of the bombing in 1995. And just like before we will never forget but will open ourselves to ongoing life, sustained with the love and compassion of so many caring people. 

And in the future, once the healing has begun, can we remember that thousands and thousands of children, women and men, throughout the world, face unspeakable suffering everyday. Can this suffering on our doorstep allow us to extend compassion to all who suffer.

We are grateful that we are spared, even as we realize that there is no rhyme nor reason in who suffers and who does not. And once again we commit to, as much as possible, living with gratitude, joy and loving kindness each day.