Tsunami: Now For Some Questions

As we try to come to terms with the scale of the tsunami tragedy it may be inappropriate to make political points. But I will anyway.
Firstly, we learn that the governments of the region decided not to spend money on an early warning system because these events were quite rare. Had they done so, up to two thirds of the fatalities could have been avoided. How many members of these governments lost their lives in this tragedy I wonder? And were the people at risk and whom they represent ever given a vote on whether they wanted the protection of a warning system?

Secondly, there have been heart-warming stories about the help offered to British tourists returning to Gatwick, some of whom had lost all their possessions. Clothing was bought, or donated, from the airport shops. Medical and counselling services were on hand and free accommodation was available at hotels. Wonderful. But a bit of a contrast to the reception this country gives to foreign nationals fleeing persecution and death. I thought again of the Iranian man sentenced to death for being gay whom the Home Office were determined to deport to be sliced in two with a sword. They didn't because he commited suicide in a British benefits office by self-immolation when all his appeals had failed.

Finally, we're hearing an awful lot about Mother Earth and the fearsome power of nature. What's going on? Have we suddenly reverted to pagan times? Silly me. I forgot that God only showers us with blessings and miracles. God doesn't 'do' the bad stuff. The Christians will take care to wipe his fingerprints off this one and make sure he has a good alibi. They can't play the old 'free will' card for this one so, if cornered, expect them to fall back on 'working in mysterious ways'. That usually works a treat on people who've had a full frontal lobotomy.