While we were here during the tsunami and it did affect us, we have taken a firm stand about not exploiting that fact and have learned from those around us - We have been through that, we have dealt with it and life continues.
Living here has given us a lot of hope and insight into ourselves and most of humanity. The news is good. So we continue on and enjoy ourselves and those around us.
We have also learned a lot about charities, NGO's and "christians" during this time. One example is the massive increase in the number of fishing boats. It was obvious at the time that many people's livelihood's were destroyed along with their boats. The donations came in. Now there is an estimated 75% more fishing boats in the region than before the tsunami. It says that donations were effective, but misguided. When do you say - stop?
the "christians" were/are among the very worst behaved of all the people that came through. They gave gifts of furniture and housing - conditional upon attendance at church. We know of at least two instances where these gifts were forcibly taken back after not attending church. Needless to say there is something of a bad taste ...
The only one that seems to be an exception is Worldvision. They are a christian group with an agenda, and that's not acceptable in my book. But in this region (I know nothing of Indonesia or Sri Lanka) they were the single NGO that was where it was needed, doing the work that helped and really getting the job done.
As a matter of fact, there are several charities still headquartered here in Khao Lak. Which seems strange as this is a region of white beaches, 5 star resorts and prosperous families.
So this press release by World vision is very interesting indeed. While things are not perfect, they are really saying how things have progressed and changed people. I found this qoute to be the most affirming....
"Though many households are now thriving, others continue to struggle for a variety of reasons, such as the loss of a prime income earner or continued underemployment, but most people surveyed felt a more positive relationship between community members, a renewed appreciation for one another and a higher value on life after surviving the disaster. Those who reported negative changes point to financial stress and an increase in alcohol consumption. Across all provinces, people named strengthened relationships as the primary motivation for, and benefits of working together on community-based activities such as building houses, collecting garbage, and planting trees."
The trees they are mentioning are to rebuild mangroves as buffers against any future waves. The community is stronger. And yes, if you lost several of your family members in a tsunami, I reckon you might be develop a drinking problem.
Overall things are going fine and many of the NGO's have shut down operations and left. Banda Aceh is still struggling under the burden of redevelopment.
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