Bushido Lives

We have all been glued to the Internet and TV broadcasts on the crisis in Japan. And it’s difficult, if not impossible, to really get a grasp on what these people are going through, unless of course, you’ve gone through it yourself. I’ve been through a number of hurricanes and been without water and electricity – for only a day. My parents went through one back in ’04 and were without for two weeks; it took me three days after the hurricane hit to get in touch with them by phone. Many people i know lost their homes and everything except what they had on their back. Yet even this understanding of loss pales to grasp what the Japanese are experiencing.




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Amidst this strife, pain, and nearly unbearable loss, the Japanese spirit has risen in silent determination. As the videos play and the photos pour in, over and over, i am witness to a people who have struggled from the mud and water, from the rubble left of their world, and who have walked forward together, as a nation, bonded in calm resilience. I have read the reports and seen the footage of the Japanese quietly standing in line waiting for what little food and water is available. No riots. No yelling. No screaming at officials or aid workers. No looting. No rape. Only understanding – what one suffers, all suffer. Only tears. Silent and beautiful on their faces. And watching this, i am overwhelmed with admiration.

And again today, while the nation is still wrestling with the logistics of getting food, water, blankets, and medical help to the survivors, 100 very brave men walked into the nuclear reactor at Fukushima Dai-ichi, knowing full well their sacrifice, to try yet again to stop the leaks and possible melt-down of the core. And they did this out of duty and dedication. To principals of pride in your work, the camaraderie of co-workers, to the love of their families, for loyalty to their nation, and for the honor they hold as a people.

To this – i bow to you in respect, with honor, and love in humanity.
The Samurai walk with us again.