Thoughts

It's another gloomy day here. Overcast skies, hints of rain, cool breeze, the sun is alternately hiding and showing itself, another typhoon is upon us...one after the other. I've lost count as to how many have passed the Philippines' area of responsibility since summer ended. Hey, a tsunami was even caught on tape by the local news. Good thing, it never really hit us.

Mount Mayon in Albay is on alert level 4. Residents within and around the permanent danger zone have been evacuated altho some refused to leave. Authorities said that the volcano may erupt any time soon. Last night, they've said that the full moon could aggravate the eruption due to it's gravitational pull/force on the molten rock inside the volcano. If that happens, life and livelihood will be placed in jeopardy. Contaminated water sources, ash fall, dust-borne diseases, lack of basic items, displaced inhabitants, among other things. Somehow, the local government of Albay has found an enterprising way to deal with this phenomenon. That is to promote the tourism aspect of Mayon's volcanic activity by conducting tours and even increasing the number of plane flights to and from Albay. Continuous national and local news are likewise available for those who need to be informed.

The weather, natural disasters and life seem to have something in common. Their patterns change all the time and they could bring out the best or worst in people.