The earthquake just now unnerved me. Its severity was unexpected and I was not prepared for it. Staying in a high-rise made it even more frightening as immediate evacuation is almost impossible. What should one do during an earthquake? Here is a brief compilation of the procedures to follow in the event of an earthquake from the many websites listed by Google.

1. Remain calm - do not panic.
2. Open the door to secure an exit route.
3. Turn off all sources of fire.
4. Do not evacuate until the earthquake is over.
5. Seek shelter under a sturdy desk away from glass and windows. Cover head
   and face to protect from falling debris and broken glass.
6. Keep away from tall cabinets that could topple over and fittings that may
   fall.
7. Get out immediately after the earthquake stops, taking with you keys,
   wallets and emergency supplies only.
8. Put on your shoes before going out.
9. Close the door behind you when evacuating, watching out for people who may
   need your help in getting out.
10. Do not use the elevator.
11. When outside, move away from buildings, trees, power lines and lamp posts.
12. Do not make unnecessary telephone calls. Making phone calls to the
    emergency services to get information may hamper their rescue efforts.

At about 9:00am, when I was about to leave my apartment to attend Mass, I felt an apparent tremor which lasted more than 30 seconds. As I am staying on the 20th floor, the quake was more evident. I thought that if it lasted any longer, the block would collapse. The floor moved, my wheelchair swayed, the water in my drinking bottle was unsettled and the door rattled. Fortunately, no untoward incident happened around my Taman except for some residents who were shaken by the ordeal. According to a report from The Star, the earthquake measured 8.1 on the Richter Scale with its epicentre off the coast of western Sumatra.

Put two little friars, one cute santarina, four guitarists and a group of adults in red hats together and you get a really merry time. I wondered how they could squeeze into my apartment, all twenty three of them, carollers from the various churches who had come to share Christmas jollity with me. Their sweet voices singing favourites like The First Noel, Feliz Navidad, The Little Drummer Boy and Silent Night filled this little space with such joy. That certainly cranked my mood up a few notches. I have not felt as spirited as this evening for a long time. Thank you all who took the time and effort to come and spread so much love and cheer to me. I shall remember this fellowship for a long time to come. God bless you all for having me in your thoughts during this festive season. Here is wishing you a Blessed Christmas.