FLOODS (Show Support To Help Victims Stay Strong)

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
 makes life a wonderful journey.

            The year 2014 has been a year of trials and tribulations for Malaysia and its people, following a series of unforgettable events.

            From the missing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, the downing of MH17 and the devastation of Cameron Highlands to the recent floods hitting half of the country, 2014 is, undoubtedly, one of the most memorable years for the nation.

            It is true that people are free to interpret hidden meanings or messages from the ordeals, but they will end up being either optimists or pessimists.

It is, undeniably, a lot easier for us to think negatively given that the catastrophes have caused deaths and conflicts. Everyone blames each other and as situations prolong, speculations add fuel to the fire. This is what happens when people see the glass as half empty.

            Optimists, on the other hand, believe in a silver lining, fate, tests of patience and strength, and signs to change for the better. They stay positive and reflect on the past.

            There is no occurrence without a reason. A disaster teaches humans that no one is better than the other. When it strikes, the rich and the poor, and, the young and the old, will have to face it. Justice prevails when we least expect it. Show concern and and sensitivity for the victims.

            However, some ignorant people regard disasters as common phenomena and do not take them seriously because their families are not affected. Others think that it is their responsibility to help those in need. And we need more of the latter during the recent floods, especially when the number of evacuees is increasing.  

            As the situation worsened, it is important for us to ease the victims’ burden by lending a helping hand. While the government and non-government bodies work to help provide flood victims with shelters and food, others can donate money and clothes. Volunteers, too, can join rescue teams.

            When everyone is eager about the updates, it is disappointing that some people have fun sharing fake news regarding flood conditions. These false reports shared via various social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter, may cause people to panic and take wrong actions, thus making things worse.

To prevent the number of deaths and missing victims from increasing, those in the affected areas should be careful and parents need to remind their children to stay away from floodwaters as it is nearly impossible to survive strong currents.

The victims’ health conditions, too, should be checked regularly, if possible. This is to protect them from water-borne diseases or other types of illnesses.

It is indeed during this difficult time that our positive attitude, continuous support and prayers are needed to help the victims stay physically and emotionally strong.

            And as we welcome the New Year, let us learn from yesterday, live for today and hope for tomorrow (Albert Einstein).

Courtesy of New Straits Times

30 December 2014