THE BIG ONE

It hit Japan hard and fast last week, and now we watch as they cope with a relentless one-two- three punch. First, the 9.0 earthquake, then the tsunami, and finally now the uncertainty of possible nuclear radiation danger. The expected loss of life is 10,000 or more, the destruction is beyond what we've seen in some time, and the misery of those left without homes and heat is difficult to even hear about, much less be able to do something helpful. It is advised that the best place to send contributions is the American Red Cross for Japan. It all seems more like a movie than real life, as each day brings us more images of the results of this unexpected, savage assault by the force of nature. The bad news is that Japan is extremely vulnerable to earthquakes--the good news, that they are also among the world's best prepared, and have the economic resources to rebuild.

Japan is the world's 3rd most powerful economy, and their connection to us and many other countries is vital, and critical to commerce all over the world. Even now, as we worry about the possible effects of their nuclear plant damage, our stock market is in a very precarious mood. We are far away, yet so close, and as the wind blows, we get closer. The jury is still out, and there are mixed opinions as to whether we have need to worry about our own health, especially on the west coast. Stay tuned, but listen closely, as the truth, as always, will be hard to find at first. The environmentalists will seize upon this to advance their agendas against all nuclear energy, the media will spin and toil to bring drama and personal editorializing to their reports, and the scientists will likely disagree or be influenced by the politics of the situation. It appears doubtful at this point in time that we are in danger here----keep close watch, but don't get out the gas mask or the iodide pills just yet. Perhaps we would be better advised to be better prepared for an earthquake of our own---I hear survival kits are becoming much more popular, as well as stocks of canned goods and water. According to seismatologists, California is due for their own big one within 30 years, and Washington state is also at high risk. Talk about living on the edge---the United States, and particularly the west coast, is woefully unprepared for such a catastrophe. Perhaps Japan's tragedy will be our wake up call.

In the meantime, there are other "big ones", that may not appear so threatening, but are as we speak, moving forward with great speed and possible earth shaking results of a different kind. Libya and other Arab countries are on the brink of turmoil and change---and not necessarily one which will benefit the United States. As one government falls, another will take or regain it's place, and the worry is always that either terrorist groups or anti-American regimes will gain further strength and control of the middle east. The question is---should we intervene to take control of their destiny, thereby affecting our own? Our president seems to be wrestling with the same question,regarding Libya and the defeat of Gaddafi, and to date has not made a decision, preferring instead to defer to the United Nations, even though France and Germany have given the green light. Having stated unequivocally that "Gaddhafi must go", Obama has not backed up his own ultimatum,leaving it to look like an empty threat, and many to wonder where his thoughts are and what the world must think of our leadership. Granted, the decision to lead by force in this situation is admittedly a hard one---who are our enemies versus our friends, and who best will protect our interests? The answers are not at all clear, but morally and consistent with our stated values, it would seem we should have stepped up without delay and protect those who are rebelling against a cruel, oppressive, and terrorist leaning dictator and losing their lives in the process. And why pose as defenders and protectors, then back off? Is the hesitation to decide one way or the other a lack of diplomatic experience on Obama's part, or is it his core belief that America should no longer lead, but follow according to the United Nations---and that we should be thought of only as a player on the world stage, not a leading country who will stand up for our security, values, and democracy---that, in his mind, would seem arrogant and bullying? It would seem Obama's vision of America is that we should assume a more humble posture to placate our enemies and become more magnanimous---- and less leaderly. It's difficult to know exactly what Obama is thinking, much less what his true compass is---but times like this are confounding even some of this staunchest supporters, who are stymied by his lack of follow up to statements and generally passive attitude regarding events in the middle east. It is becoming increasingly clear that we are in the hands of someone who has a decidedly different style of leadership---or lack thereof. And while we dither, Gaddhafi grins and dares to be taken down. Late breaking news at this moment informs that the U.N. has decided to take the dare---hopefully, it's not too late, as Gaddhafi has vehemently sworn to violently go after his opposition.

As events unfold both here and in the middle east, Japan's earthquake reminds us all that in the end, nothing much else matters, but life and loved ones. All other concerns seem trivial by comparison---yet life goes on and we must deal with all of it, knowing there isn't much we can do about natural disasters, except prepare, but much we can do as a people to remain healthy, strong, free, and productive. In the drama of human events, how much better to be a lead actor and example to the world, not simply a tired, spent, and timid nation, afraid to move for fear of political reprisal or world opinion. As our politicians threaten to shut down our government, due to their refusal to come to terms with our broken budget, one wonders where the leadership is and when and where the next crisis will come. Rahm Emanuel, once a member of Obama's cabinet and now the mayor of Chicago, once said at the beginning of Obama's presidency, "you never want a serious crisis to go to waste". He meant there was always political gain to be made during such times. It seemed like a nefarious statement at the time--now it seems more like a curse that needs to be undone. Prayer, anyone?

"The big one" in the future may not come in the form of an earthquake, but in the creeping ruin of a nation who once knew lofty greatness, the likes of which the world had never seen, but fell from grace---due to fear of heights, political gridlock, and a settling for back seat mediocrity. Prepare.