Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
More evacuated from Australia floods. As the flood waters spread from Queensland state,
where fatalities now total 33 and 12 people remain missing, up to one-third of Victoria
has been affected by what is being called the nation’s wettest summer on record. With
one young boy whose life was lost to flooding, residents of more than 60 towns have been
directly impacted, with many urged to evacuate as levees threaten to breach. A number of
communities have become isolated, including the rural town of Kerang, and the Australian
army was dispatched to assist with rescue and relief efforts. Crops are also jeopardized,
having endured drought before becoming recently submerged. The state government is offering
grants for residents and businesses whose properties were inundated while warning that
rebuilding from what is likely the country’s most economically costly natural disaster
ever could take years.
When conditions in Queensland first intensified in early December, Supreme Master Ching Hai
had conveyed her deep love and prayers as she donated AUS$10,000 in emergency aid, with
our nearby Association members immediately beginning relief work in accordance with her
instructions. As the flooding moved to Victoria, she offered an additional AUS$10,000 on January
17, having also donated AUS$10,000 toward the endeavors of the Royal Society for the
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to help stranded animal companions, for a total contribution
of AUS$30,000.
Upon hearing this most recent update, Supreme Master Ching Hai expressed her heartfelt sympathy
for the affected, saying: "I'm so sorry! I feel so much the pain that all victims have
to endure!!! Pray Heaven be merciful."
We are appreciative for the endeavors of Australian officials, military and other personnel, as
well as for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s detailed care for vulnerable humans and animals alike.
With Heaven’s blessings, may such distressing situations be minimized as our concerted shift
toward gentler ways helps restore the Earth’s equilibrium�