Chilean Miner Offers Words Of Hope To Trapped Thai Soccer Team
Following an earthquake in August 2010, a copper/gold mine in Chile collapsed trapping 33 men 3 miles from the exit point and 2,300 ft underground. 69 days later in October, the world watched with relief as they were brought to the surface alive one at a time.
In a classy & empathetic move, one of those same men is offering words of support to boys on a soccer team, ages 11 – 16, that have been trapped in a cave in Thailand with their coach since June 23rd. They were exploring the area when a downpour raised water levels leaving them stranded inside. With monsoon season entering full swing levels aren’t expected to go down until the Fall.
According to NBC News, Chilean miner Omar Reygadas said,
“It’s terrible for them — they’re little — but I believe that boys with a lot of strength are going to manage to be whole when they get out.”
He recalled times when he and his fellow miners doubted they would be rescued. Faith, prayer and humor kept them sane.
“They shouldn’t be ashamed to be scared, because we were scared, too. Our tears also ran. Even as adult men, we cried.”
“They should think only about leaving and reuniting with their families,” Reygadas told The Associated Press on Tuesday, adding that their coach will be key to keeping them motivated.
Thankfully all the boys are still healthy & Thai Navy SEALS and medics have been able to reach the area with supplies. They have also been able to relay messages to the families, who must be going through unthinkable agony & uncertainly as their children remain stranded underground.
Crews are working around the clock to get them out. One of the plans being tossed around right now is teaching the boys how to dive & have them swim their way out through dark, volatile waters. That’s a terrifying prospect to me as an adult (enclosed water park slides are a no-go) so I can only imagine what they’re feeling. I hope the words of Reygadas give them a little bit of much needed encouragement & optimism. Will definitely be anxiously following this story & keeping the faith that these kids and their coach make it out.
