3/11 anniversary

Two separate posts, to tell of the profound effect of being in Japan at this time. Followed by a day trip with photos.

This last weekend, I was teaching my Level 2 seminar. The first day focused on Love Relationships and Soul Mates. I learn so much about the differences in our cultures! In America, it is not unusual, as many of you know (!!!), to have multiple relationships before you find 'the one.' And, to live together, get divorced and remarry is also not uncommon. In Japan, especially for women, it is quite common to live with parents until marriage, so they have much less experience - certainly less than my trail of adventure! What remains consistence where ever I teach is our desire for true love.

The second day, 3/11, marked the one year anniversary of the earthquake and tsunami that were so devastating to this country. Over 20,000 died, with many thousands still counted as missing. I'm not sure how many lost homes, business, communities, but it is over 100,000 if not 200,000. The recovery is slow, with so many still in evacuation style housing, separated from extended family members, no assistance or compensation (no insurance, no FEMA). The despair is great. But so, also, is the hope, cooperation and tenacity to bounce back. People are working together patiently.

The special television shows in Japan tell amazing tales. Like volunteers dedicating themselves to cleaning and restoring photo albums recovered from the muddy mess, organizing them in bins, and cataloging them by type of event/photo using a new computer software by 'Nifty' designed just for this purpose. Then people can come into the building, scroll through digitized photos in hopes of finding someone they recognize, which leads them to the photo album. It may not sound that important, compared to rebuilding a home, but for those who literally lost everything, being reunited with photo memories is quite emotional and healing.

On Sunday, during my seminar, the entire country of Japan refocused on that traumatic day. People everywhere stopped whatever they were doing at 2:46 pm to send a prayer, etc. Later I saw TV of the busiest intersection in Tokyo, where hundreds were walking, then simultaneously stopped in their tracks. Total silence, and all bowing their heads in respect and prayer. The only sound was a loudspeaker, probably leading that moment. I had the honor of leading the seminar students in our own version of this moment. Holding the vision of all of those who died as thousands of beautiful butterflies lifting to the sky, to a radiant ball of light. Then holding the vision of all survivors being one large family, instead of many separate ones. To see them feeling supported by all of us. It was quite a moving day. Even with the difficulties I have had in my life, I am humbled by the challenge these others are enduring. I only hope I help in whatever way I have to offer.

Many blessings,
Daeryl