We have all seen and heard the stories about the horrific tsunami that hit Japan a week ago. News coverage has been constant but always from an American perspective. I would like to share with you a letter written by a dear Japanese friend and mentor. He works with educators and students throughout Japan and this is a letter he wrote to a school Principal he has known and worked with.Dear Principal,
We are deeply concerned and our heartfelt sympathy goes to all the teachers for your worries and sorrow. We have no comfort to offer for those students and teachers who had to experience such massive earthquakes and a disastrous tsunami. We hope to support those in affected areas in ways we can for now, rather than coming up with any words.
Asking ourselves "why he or she had to die, and I am alive"' reminds me of the word "Mujyo" -- transience of one's mind. Our ancestors have lived through the forces of nature with bent heads. We now realize the serious meaning of this "transience" that can also be identified as the DNA of the Japanese heart and mind.
Unfortunately, we do not have ability to take away your pain. We can not completely share the sorrow you are enduring. However, we can be beside of you. We can be back on our feet with the pain still inside of us. We believe, it means to face this "transience" together.
Our sincere condolences go to those who lost their lives, and we pray for miraculous hands to reach the ones missing.
Name Withheld
Shown Above: The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Hokusai.
