Zambales-Pampanga Philippines Earthquake April 22, 2019

I have never felt an earthquake. And there was a time I wanted to.

There were times when I would surprisingly see that a 5.0 magnitude earthquake struck somewhere near me. 

And yet, I did not even notice it. I sometimes don't know where I was at that moment.

People on Facebook post about it saying they felt it. But I didn't. I didn't have stories to tell.

So I was curious. Curious of the feeling.

Of course I didn't want anyone to be hurt. Or see any damages when that happens. I just wanted to feel it. That's all.

Then suddenly, April 22, 2019, I felt it. And it was really strong.

I thought I would be chill about it. I thought when they say, "Don't panic", it would be as easy as being told to "Sit" or "Walk to the exits".

I was wrong. 

Regardless of where I was, I feel that I would feel the same - unsafe. When the foundations, the floor, the post, begin to wiggle, all parts of you also does.

Those few seconds or minutes, the fear is numbing. You don't know what to think of - or do.

Do I dock? What if the table isn't strong enough? Should I head on the exits? What do I do? Am I going to die? 

These are the times when you feel helpless. 

You couldn't talk to anyone because they are also busy panicking. You can not hold on to any structure because it might break.

Then you start to realize how much you want to live. You suddenly realize that there are plenty of things you still want to do and the things you regret doing. 

During these times, pray. Not because it is the SOP, but because we are only humans. There is nothing we can do to stop. We can not pull the plug so it will stop - but He can. 
It was a trembling feeling. And I hope it would be the last. 

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2986774874667863&id=100000061399919&sfnsn=mo

For those who lost their loved ones, may you find the courage to stand again.