It is a horribly tragic event and I grieve for the families and friends who lost loved ones and homes. I think because the area that was hit was so ancient that contributed to the huge loss of life since there was no defense.

I think Richard's point was that our government offered to send aide to the area both money and people and supplies and the Iranian government turned down the help. I don't think was meant to be a political statement, just a frustrated statement that the help was offered and it was turned down.

I hope and pray that the needed help will arrive from SOMEWHERE. Those people are suffering and need some relief. They are in my thoughts and prayers.