Catastrophe is something I watch on tv.

The house sliding down a hill in a flood.

The war and rubble of a far off place.

The dirty children with ribs sticking out from underneath their ragged clothing.

The vagrant woman begging for change to get a cup of coffee and a place to stay warm.

It cannot happen here.

(I repeat this prayer as if the words alone could keep us safe)

My ancestors are uncomfortable in the house I have built for them.

Restless at my leisure.

They will never rest.

They know how quickly fortunes change.

It is important to know how to survive.

It is critical to know when to leave.

They ask can you lock the door

Take the key

And leave everything except the clothes you wear?

Are you prepared for this?

Foolish I go on watching misery elsewher

Praying that I will die before that time comes again.