they're looking at this same glorious afternoon sun ..

i went out of my office building after work. it was 1 pm. immediately as i stepped down the stairs i was greeted by the light of this glorious afternoon sun. it is cold inside the office where i am stationed and i have to wear a sweater. here, outside the building, as i removed my sweater, my whole body was caressed by the soothing, gentle heat of this wonderful, life-giving star, this glorious sun. i allowed my body to be soaked for a few minutes by her warmth. i smiled outwardly and inwardly. i looked downward as i walked towards the jeepney stop where i'd be getting my ride. a very short shadow was being cast on the ground as i took my steps. the sun's overhead. and then this sudden realization came over me --

they are looking at this same glorious sun,
but they will not be basking in her warmth, our dear brethren in japan, a lot of them will feel very cold especially inside, because of sorrow, because of the desolation, because of the devastation, they have just experienced ..

it is still ongoing, this harrowing experience, and our japanese brethren must continue to find within themselves the strength, the heroism, the fortitude, to withstand this, and to prevail.

to find within themselves, their inner, glorious sun, their inner light, so that they can withstand this test, the coldness of sorrow and desolation that has beset their land.

i stopped walking for a few minutes of silence. for a few minutes of remembrance for these dear brethren. for them i silently offered this powerful prayer by that great indian saint, Paramahansa Yogananda --
 
"teach us to feel
 that Thou art the Power
 behind all wealth
 and the Value
 within all things
 finding Thee first
 we shall find everything else in Thee!"
 
dear japanese brethren, we firmly believe you will find your glorious sun, your inner radiant light, in these difficult times, and you will be strengthened,  and yes, you will be comforted.