SURVIVAL ESSENTIALS

WARNING SIGNS

You may not receive any advance notice of an attack in your neighborhood. So, watch for nature's signals. Birds will die first, then cats, etc. If you see even one dead bird, stay indoors and contact the authorities. You might even want to build a small aviary outdoors and add some birds. If you already have pet birds inside, you might want to put them out on the porch in the daytime (if it is warm enough and out of direct sun - it doesn't count as a signal of an attack if you kill the bird yourself!) Or, you may want to keep the birdcage as close to a window as possible to get some advance notice from the little bit of air that can come in there. (Some birds could die from the draft alone - also doesn't count - so research care of your bird first.)

All animals give us warnings of some impending disasters. Before an earthquake, dogs stop barking, some dogs hide, cats hide, horses make more noise and get restless. Sharks are reported to evacuate the reefs they cruise daily before a hurricane. And, it is said that you can tell that an earthquake in winter is imminent when you see earthworms come out of the ground.

Before large earthquakes, it seems even the wind stops. A lightning storm without any rain or hail can be (not always) a signal that a large earthquake is on its way. A hailstorm can be (not always) a sign that the storm is becoming a tornado.

Hopefully, we will also receive warnings from government officials and/or weathermen when we need them.

WILL YOU LET THEM WIN

Are you afraid to go just about anywhere you don't have to? You used to drive up to see your parents. They'll understand. You used to take your kids to the park on weekends. Aren't you just adding to their fears? Haven't we already almost been killed by terrorists if we are too afraid to live our lives? Going to some of the most high profile "American" places may present more risk than it is wise to take. But, we will have to start getting back to our regular activities someday. The sooner we do, the better and stronger we will feel. Our emotions even play a huge part in our ability to resist disease (or not).

Staying in front of the television listening to every word to be sure you hear of any possible warning makes us victims. It simply immobilizes us physically and mentally, it rips at our emotions, and it drains our immune system. Turn off the television, get up, and get something constructive done instead. Get your mind working on how to prepare instead. You should feel immediate relief when you start, and real peace of mind when you're done.

Each of us should be prepared to take care of ourself and our family for one to three months. Even if we are blessed enough to never face a natural disaster or outside attack, there is always the possibility of sickness or injury to prevent us from working, or of job loss. It is not only smart and careful to be prepared, it is our responsibility.

ONE FINAL "WORD"

This really could be the last day for one of you - and that's true any day, not just in the face of disaster. What if you are that one? What if your 15-year-old son is that one? This might be the time for you to finally read Jesus Christ Saves. Even if you think you've already taken care of that part of your life. It's up to you.