Mitigation
That’s when we could have helped ahead.
That’s when we could have gotten out.
That’s when we see it coming.
That’s over before we know it.
Planning
That’s when we build our confidence
That’s when we look into the dark abyss
That’s when we paper up
That’s when we assume invincibility.
Response
That’s when we Keystone cop it,
That’s when forewarning’s rarity is clarity
That’s when things go out the window
That’s when our plans collapse.
Activation
That’s when all hell breaks loose
That’s when all bets are off
That’s when we’re on our own
That’s when reality really kicks in.
Recovery
That’s when we truly shine
That’s picking up the pieces
That’s redirecting responsibility
That’s putting the best face on.
Disaster
That’s when worlds collapse
That’s when we’re caught flatfooted
That’s when our worst fear appears
That’s when our hope stretches
Bill Purdin | September 9, 2005