Prayers and Praise for Japan ...

Japan is currently facing its biggest crisis since WW-II per Prime Minister Naoto Kan as it tackles the aftermath of a massive magnitude 9 quake (in Northeast Japan), a ferocious tsunami and the ensuing nuclear crisis at the Fukushima power plant. Adding salt to its wounds, the Shinmoedake volcano has erupted in Southern Japan spewing ash and rock in the region.

With all the technology that is available, the world was literally watching Japan as the horror unfolded. The fury of nature belittled engineering achievements in the region as we watched 13-foot waves sweeping houses, boats and trains. Although the final toll of the quake is unknown, there is no doubt that had a quake of this magnitude hit any other part of the world, the destruction would have been far worse. In the words of a friend (who lives in Japan), "Hats off to Japan. They have shown the world an amazing calmness and positive attitude during hard times.".

We have seen the resiliency of Japan in the past and I am confident that Japan will pull out from this crisis and emerge a stronger nation.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Japan ...