It is raining here. The winds are so strong and there is so much water pouring down - it is as if all the tears from Japan have finally made it across the ocean. Like they are telling their story, giving us their sorrows. I want to stretch my arms over the sea and wrap the suffering people in a warm and comforting hug. I want to wipe the tears from a dirty and downtrodden face and make everything better.

There are many, many ways to give. And it costs nothing to pray.

I logged on this afternoon to blog a funny story about one of my kids. The rain has just gotten to me today. It feels deeper than a "normal" rain. Melancholy and cleansing and just, soaking in. Soaking deep.

There have been so many catastrophes in recent years. Katrina, Haiti, now Japan. Troubles in Australia and China. Not to mention the war. And we haven't had enough time to heal one wound before another one is gaping open. I am so grateful for the people who have altered their lives to go to those places and make a difference at ground zero; to work with and among the people in need. My heart and my love go out to them. They are doing the Lord's work, and I know they are being blessed for it. I hope our prayers for them can lend them the strength and the help that they need to carry on. I hope that the money that is given for these causes is used to its full effect. If many people do a little bit to help, all together we can make a great change in the world.