One year ago
March 11, 2012
We would like to encourage everyone to include a moment of silence today for those lost and for those affected by the enormous and horrific tragedy that occurred one year ago today in Japan.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you struggle to rebuild your lives and your country.
A moment of silence...
... ... ...
Ah, crap. I know about 9/11 but I have no idea what happened in Japan on March 11th, 2011.
*does a quick Google search*
Oh, you're referring to the big earthquake and tsunami. I'm not very good at keeping up with global current events.
Indeed. But I really don't know what to say about certain people who claim this was payback for Pearl Harbour. That's just...sick.
@ Raddaya: Some people say that? That IS just sick. And @ SonicLover: keeping up with world events like this miiight be a good idea. 9/11 was and continues to be devastating, and while it was a different kind of disaster and should not be compared, there were nearly 3,000 casualties from that attack.
The earthquake and resulting tsunami in Japan has officially caused 15,854 deaths, 9,677 injured, and 3,155 people missing (From Wikipedia). That's not including the people that will have their lives cut short from radiation exposure of the failed nuclear reactors. Hundreds of thousands of houses were completely destroyed or damaged, leaving hundreds of thousands of people homeless. Millions of houses were left without power. It has been called the most expensive natural disaster in world history.
Thank you, Jay, for this simple yet oh so potent and needed reminder.
*plants a cherry tree, and steps back in a moment of silence*
Sorry but, Yaddab, why a cherry tree? I know my school is doing the same thing, but why a cherry tree?
Nickyh,
Cherry trees have a centuries old history in Japan, rich with symbolism. Around this time each year, the Japanese celebrate the blooming of the cherry trees with a flower viewing event known as the Hanami festival.
The symbolism of a cherry blossom is linked to the phrase "mono no aware" (roughly translated to "a sensititivy to things"), which is an awareness of the beauty of life, but also its fleeting impermanence and our sadness at its passing.
We also have our own Sakura Matsuri (cherry blossom festivals) here in the US. If you ever have a chance to attend, it really is very beautiful
We're praying for you, Japan, for healing, comfort and peace.
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