In a way I’m surprised there hasn’t been more to say about the tsunami on this forum. Working as a copy editor at a Toronto daily newspaper, I’ve been exposed to far too many images of death, chaos and catastrophe from Asia this week. Too many photographs of human tragedy are seared into my brain. The tales of rescue and narrow escape are somewhat heartening, but the sheer volume of victims contradicts any feel-good human triumph stories. The disaster is unspeakable, and leaves me with an empty feeling in my stomach if I think about it too much. This is why I’m also not surprised there hasn’t been more said about it on the This blog.

A tragedy like this messes with a person’s head. I’ve had crazy thoughts about cancelling my planned trip to BC this coming week and seeing if I can fly to Asia to help with the relief effort instead. The urge to do something to help is overwhelming, and donating whatever small amount of money I can afford doesn’t seem to be enough.

At the same time I’m resigned to feeling as though life is a total crapshoot. No matter how hard you try, there is no way to ensure your safety, or the safety of your loved ones. The conclusion I’m left with? Life is short. Make the most of it. I’m trying not to get too philosophical, but it’s tough when something so humbling occurs. Be well, readers, and make ‘05 a good year.