Will life ever return to normal? What is normal? Maybe there is no such thing. Maybe there is just life- each and every individual has their own- they must accept it and live it the best they can. Even natural disasters like the tsunami are a part of it and remind us of our inextricable connectedness to the Earth- the vulnerable and temporary existence we have where nothing is guaranteed to anyone.

"Motorcycles and cars were speeding down the road, skidding to a stop and picking people up, only to speed south towards the hill. Shop owners were frantically closing their doors and rounding up their families. Cell phones were given to anyone who needed one, to call whoever they needed. This is the new tsunami warning system.

"About twenty minutes before the first wave hit, the elephants became extremely agitated and unruly."

"The waiting and uncertainty of whether or not we?d be able to perform the tasks without throwing up, fainting, or becoming too disturbed to continue wore heavy on us. Some would continue talking to fill the space and attention prior to going in while others became very contemplative and serious."

We couldn't just sit back in Paradise enjoying serene beaches while on the other side of the isthmus there is mass devastation. We decided to start a collection drive on the island.