Picking up the pieces from disaster

If only we had known what we know now at this same time last Sunday.

A numbing week has passed since the massive quake and tsunami that devastated Aceh and the region, taking thousands of lives and leaving many more homeless, yet the deep sadness about the staggering human toll remains.

Amid the news stories are the tales of those searching for lost loved ones among decaying bodies in the streets or under the rubble.

Even for the survivors, life is tough in finding medical assistance, food, clothing and a warm place to sleep.

Although the outpouring of sympathy and donations has been heartening, all of us need to remember that there but for the grace of God goes us. -- Text and photos by P.J. Leo