Voices from Japan

Cross Brings Hope to Victims in Sendai

2011-04-23T03:41:00.000-07:00

(Sankei News 2011.4.22 14:35)

In Sendai’s Miyagino Ward, where destruction by the earthquake and tsunami was devastatingly total, the cross of the “Seaside Bible Chapel”, dug out from the ruins and rebuilt, is giving new hope to the people in the area.

The church building, located roughly 700 meters from the shoreline, was washed away by the tsunami and the wide area surrounding it reduced to piles of debris. But three days after the quake, members of the church and other volunteers dug the foundations of the cross out from under the rubble and reconstructed the cross on top of it.

With nothing but mud and rubble for as far as the eye could see in any direction, the first worship service after the quake was held around the cross by approximately 50 church members and volunteers from various parts of Japan, and prayers were offered for the Japanese people. “We just wish to provide any hope we can to help the victims”, explains Pastor Tomohiro Naito, who himself lost his home to the tsunami.

(Original Japanese Text)

東日本大震災の津波で壊滅的な被害を受けた仙台市宮城野区の「シーサイド・バイブル・チャペル」で、がれきの中から掘り出され、再建された十字架が被災者に希望を与えている。

海岸から約７００メートルの場所にあった教会は、津波で流され周囲はがれきの山と化した。だが、震災から３日後に信徒やボランティアががれきの中から十字架の土台部分を掘り起こし、失われた十字架本体を作り直したという。

見渡す限りのがれきの中で行われた礼拝には、全国からボランティアを含めておよそ５０人が参加し、震災で亡くなった人々に祈りをささげた。自身も被災して家を失った同教会の内藤智裕牧師は「少しでも被災した方々の希望になれば」と話している。

http://sankei.jp.msn.com/life/news/110422/art11042214370007-n1.htm

Part Time Worker's Mind Put at Ease about Pay

2011-04-20T08:51:00.000-07:00

I was so grateful to my part-time employer. I had been getting sent home earlier than usual because there was no business, and I was getting very worried about the amount I would be receiving on pay day. Today, I realized my employer had included a special payment they called “Earthquake Provision” in my pay! Now I don’t have to worry about paying for my lessons!

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/princess_kaon/status/59242099643658240

自分のバイト先に本当に感動！地震で早帰りが多かったから、お給料本当にヤバイって思ってたら、地震休業手当が頂けた！これでレッスン費も安心です( ´ ▽ ` )ノ

4-year-old Girl Donates Savings

2011-04-20T08:43:00.001-07:00

My friend took her 4 year old sister to McDonalds. When the little child saw the disaster relief donations box beside the counter, she took out a 100-yen ($1) coin from her little purse and put it in. It was a 100-yen that she was carefully saving for herself later. (The Japanese McDonalds has a list of food that sells for exactly 100-yen. Editor’s assumption is that the little child had been saving her 100-yen for an icecream or other food, but decided to donate it at the last minute.)

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/katura_umeda/status/59236923767668736

4歳の妹とマックへいったらしんだけど、レジの隣においてあった地震の募金箱をみて自分の財布から100円取り出して募金したらしい。　大事にしてた100円だったから感動した

Voices From Japan Re-translated into Arabic

2011-04-16T12:59:00.000-07:00

Voices From Japan's translations have been re-translated into Arabic and published on Al-Gomhuria Newspaper (One of Egypt`s leading newspapers). Thank you Sowon Zio for the initiative to translated it into Arabic.

"Be Strong!" Hashikami Jr. Highschool Graduation

2011-04-14T16:05:00.000-07:00

As is tradition in Japanese junior high schools, the valedictorian salutes the class with his speech, thanks the teachers, and delivers a pledge for the whole class.

This is a clip from the graduation ceremony of Hashikami Junior High School in Kesenuma City, a city that no longer exists. The ceremony was held at one wing of a gymnasium that now serves as an evacuation facility. There are parents receiving the diplomas in place of their children who are dead or missing. The translation below is from 0:43.

Principal:

"We have all been stricken by sudden and incredible tragedy. Knowing that disaster could hit our city one day, we did prepare. But the disaster that struck us and continues to grip us day by day has proven to be something unimaginable ... far more terrifying than we had ever imagined.

We have been burdened with enormous grief and sadness, but we must overcome."

Valedictorian:

“Hashikami Junior High School has always been known for its excellent disaster prevention training, and as such, we have been highly respected both from within and without.

“But, in the face of nature’s fury, we were entirely powerless, and it has mercilessly robbed us all of things we hold dear. These are trials given to us from above, but they seem too painful to bear, and too baffling to understand.

“But even in distress, it is the duty of us the graduates of Hashikami Junior High School 2011, to not blame heaven, to persevere through our lot in life, and to always help one another in our life ahead together.”

Principal:

“Courage. Be strong.”

Old Ladies Now Completely Used to Earthquakes

2011-04-13T01:59:00.000-07:00

At the Ito Yokado supermarket, the intercom suddenly blared out another earthquake warning. Everyone in sight suddenly stopped cold in their tracks … except for the old ladies. With nerves of steel, they continued to go around diligently filling their baskets with food and vegetables that were on sale. Unbelievable. Either they are now completely used to earthquakes or they just are not thinking. What if this was a big one!?

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/aberia_tatsumi/status/58002772708175872

イトーカドーで買い物していたら店内放送で緊急地震警報が。みんな一斉にピタって静止する中、根性座った叔母ちゃま達だけがせっせと自分の籠の中に安売りの野菜を詰め込んでいたことに感動。もう慣れっこになっちゃっているのか、ただ単に何も考えていないのか。本気で大きかったらどうするの？

3 Year Old Girl Tries to "Fix the Earthquake"

2011-04-13T01:49:00.000-07:00

Today, my three year old daughter came to me with her little piggy bank of 10-yen (10p) coins and said, “I’m going to give one to everyone who is crying. That will fix the earthquake won’t it?” Big lesson for all of us indeed. Have we all done everything we can to help those in need.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/lovefairly/status/57986498364063744

感動したメルマガをシェアして→うちの三歳の娘が、いきなり十円玉だらけのお小遣いを持ってきて、泣いている人に一つずつあげるんだって。これで、地震治るねって。。みんな良く考えよう。自分にやれる事がやれているか

The Important Stories the Media Finds Boring

2011-04-13T00:58:00.000-07:00

The media is primarily interested in the radiation levels in the Fukushima nuclear power plant. Less and less is covered about the people struggling to live, and of some of the wonderful stories that happened on the ground.

One of these stories took place in Kesenuma, the city that was completely wiped out in the tsunami. Amidst the destruction, one building that still stands. It is a building that saved 1,000 lives and 500 vehicles ... and it wasn't a coincidence. Here is its story by Wesley Cheek.

Japanese Prime Minister Thanks The World

2011-04-12T01:19:00.000-07:00

Japan PM Naoto Kan has thanked the international community for its assistance and encouragement on several of the world's leading newspapers. This one is from the Wallstreet Journal Europe.

Thank you for the Kizuna.

My country suffered an unprecedented heavy earthquake a month ago. Numerous people lost their lives, and more than 150,000 people have had to take refuge.

In the regions that were hit by the tsunami after the earthquake, there was no water, no electricity, no food, and even contact with the outside world had been cut off. At that time, overseas assistances gave us strength to go forward.

A bowl of hot soup and a blanket warmed bodies and minds in cold. Rescue teams struggled to comb through the rubble to save survivors, and medical teams selflessly provided treatment to those people who were physically and emotionally injured.

Even today, we are still receiving encouragement and wishes from around the world. The Kizuna given by friends all over the world greatly inspire us. I would like to say a sincere "thank you" to the countries, regions and all the rest of you who have given us all-out support.

Reconstruction work has kicked off. We are trying our best to stabilize Fukushima I Nuclear Power Plant.

Relying on the Japanese people's potential and international community's assistance, Japan will be able to undergo rebirth, revival and achieve even greater prosperity. At that time, we will repay all corners of the world for your kindness.

For the day is coming when we will unite as one to join the reconstruction and turn our deep gratitude toward our friends into hope. Thank you once again.

Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan

A Friend In Need Is A Friend Indeed.

Earthquake, Lightning, Thunder, Storm, All at Once

2011-04-11T04:44:00.000-07:00

When the quake hit (April 11) it was raining madly, with thunder and lightning raking across the sky. And then, black out. I thought I was seeing the end of the world.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/diamondnotcrash/status/57377389730213888

地震来たときは、外は大雨で雷、そして停電　地球の終りを見た気がした。

Is it the Ground Shaking or ... ?

2011-04-11T04:00:00.000-07:00

A month today since that big quake. And we just got hit by another big quake this evening. The quake was 4.0 when it hit my hometown, with multiple aftershocks to follow. With so many quakes hitting us, I recently have a hard time distinguishing if it is the ground that is shaking or if I’m just getting dizzy and nauseous.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/kenken19671204/status/57380514637684736

あの大地震から今日で１ヶ月。夕方に強い揺れが… 私の地元も震度４を観測。その後も続く余震。もう、地震で揺れてるのか、自分がフラついているのか解らなくなってきたよ(-.-;)

7.1 Earthquake Hits Fukushima

2011-04-11T01:40:00.003-07:00

More information to follow.

High-Schooler Creates Online Help Map

2011-04-10T05:26:00.000-07:00

A high-schooler in Sendai City has set up an online map that allows the evacuation facilities around Japan to post requests for specific supplies that they are short of. The online system makes it easier and more efficient for supplies to be sent quickly where needed most. This is the link, please use it to help people in the evacuation facilities.

(Example Post 1: Minami Rikuzen City Hall – (Apr. 10) Things we need now: fresh food, miso, soy sauce, salt, pepper, salad oil, mayonnaise and other seasoning supplies, drinking water, gasoline, kerosene (it will snow on the 16^th). Call: 0226-46-2600. Please call before you send just in case.)

(Example Post 2: Iwate Volunteer Center – (Apr 6⁾We need volunteers to help with the removal of debris and mud. Meet in from of the Morioka Station (Marios Supermarket) 6:30AM. Chartered bus will pick you up. Requesting 80 people. Bring your own lunch, boots, and shovels. Call 0196377549)

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/mi_ta_29/status/57004938261315586

仙台の高校生が避難所を聞き取り調査。不足している物資の情報をネット上の地図に掲載して、物資を効率よく分配できるようシステムを作った必要物資・支援要求マップみんなで活用しましょう。http://311help.com

Cousins Traveling North Blocked at Sendai

2011-04-08T03:15:00.000-07:00

Just now, I managed to call my parents in Iwate Prefecture. Their electricity seems to have been restored. But my cousins who rushed to get to Iwate following the quake have been bogged down at Sendai. It may be that the damage in the Tohoku region is bigger than we all thought. Traffic seems to be congested even off the highways.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/hariktriam/status/56297271658156032

先程ちょうど，実家と通話できるようになった(岩手県大船渡市内)．後ノ入地区も電気が通ったらしい．なお，自分よりも早く地元入りしようとしていた従兄弟が仙台で足止めを食らっているとのこと．東北道のダメージが思ったより大きい可能性が．一般道も混んでいるかも．

Sendai City Center Fully Restored

2011-04-08T03:08:00.000-07:00

Just arrived in Sendai’s city center. Not only is there power and water, but the stores are operational, traffic is moving … it almost seems there never was a quake yesterday.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/mina_awa_mina05/status/56296344402399232

電気、水道が通じてる仙台市内に戻ってきた。普通にお店もあって車も動いてる。地震があったなんて嘘みたいだ‥‥

Parts of Sendai Still Dark ...

2011-04-08T03:05:00.000-07:00

When is the power going to come back on again?? They said sometime today but which part exactly of Sendai is that? My place is still pitch black. I’m not in a mental state to go to work tomorrow, but here is my company calling my mobile …

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/soubi1/status/56294534073683968

電気いつ復旧するんだよー。今日中にとかってどこの仙台の話？うち真っ暗だけど(-_-;)明日仕事行く精神状態じゃないのに会社から電話‥。

3 Additional Deaths on April 6th

2011-04-08T02:59:00.001-07:00

Three people lost their lives in yesterday’s quake. One, who was being treated, died from the oxygen inhaler stopping because of the power blackout, and two died of shock. I pray for the quick restoration of electricity especially for those who depend on medical equipment to survive.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/otoko_ebihara/status/56211314112069633

昨夜の地震での死者3人。うち、停電で酸素吸入器が使えなくなった方1名、ショック死2名とのこと。停電が早期に解消され、医療機器を必要とする方に電気が行くことを祈る

Quake Caught me in the Shower ... AGAIN!

2011-04-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

The earthquake caught me in the shower ... AGAIN! Even worse, I was washing my hair. My concerned parents rushed to see if I was okay but it wasn’t like there was anything anyone could do until I could see again to unlock the door.

http://twitter.com/#!/polkadotsfish/status/56021139750789120

先ほどの地震の最中、またもや風呂場に居た。しかも洗髪中。心配した親が飛んできたけどどうしようもないし。

Sendai City Goes Dark After Huge Spark

2011-04-07T10:06:00.000-07:00

Camera catches an series of enormous sparks in the horizon after the April 7th quake, immediately before the entire city goes dark at 0:25.

Bottle as Much Water as You Can!

2011-04-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

Please Pass On. The water pipes in Izumiku Minami Hikaridai have been ruptured, and the reports are saying that there will be water shortage very soon. To everyone who still has running water, BOTTLE as much water as you can now!

http://twitter.com/#!/rara1108/status/56013938713829377

【拡散希望】泉区南光台水道管破裂して、また断水するそうです。今ならまだ水でるひとは、ペットボトルお風呂なんでもいいから水ためてください。

Fires in Sendai City

2011-04-07T09:46:00.001-07:00

Buildings have crumbled in Kesenuma because of this new quake. There are reports of fires and gas leakage in Sendai City. My sincere sympathies to the people in the Tohoku region who are going through an extremely anxious night. They say there will be aftershocks leading from this quake as well, so please please be careful. I will keep up to date on the news so that I can jump on any chance that comes up for me to help in anyway.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/hashimoto_tokyo/status/56031402193465345

気仙沼市からは建物倒壊の、仙台市からは火災、ガス漏れなどの情報が届いています。不安な夜を過ごされている現地の方には、心からお見舞い申し上げます。まだ余震が続くとのこと、くれぐれもお気をつけてお過ごし下さい。引き続き情報をウォッチすることで、ささやかに協力できればと思います。

When Will We Ever Have Peace Again?

2011-04-07T09:39:00.001-07:00

Man, that was scary! I was sleeping on the sofa when it struck and I woke up dazed. My head was still wrapped in sleep as I saw my father run to hold the furniture in place. When will the day be when we can all live in peace again? Good night.

http://twitter.com/#!/tamiyoshimura/status/56021143445970944

怖かったねーでも私、地震の途中までソファーで寝ておりました(..)起きてボーッとしてたら、お父さんが家具を押さえにきたよ。安心できるときが、なかなか来ないね。おやすみなさい。

Bucketed as Much Water as I Could

2011-04-07T09:37:00.001-07:00

Another one … again a very strong one that lasted a very long time. Things were dropping everywhere around my house, and I thought the house was going to fall apart. I fled to my car, and seeing that the water was still running, did the first thing that came to mind … bucket as much water as I could.

http://twitter.com/#!/66neco/status/56021142749716480

強くて長い地震でまたいろいろなモノが落ちてきました。家ごとつぶされるかと思った(ノ_・。)　車に避難してますが、まだ水道は大丈夫みたいなので水の確保をします。

That the Best You Can Do??

2011-04-07T09:17:00.001-07:00

Earthquakes don’t scare me… is that best you can do!! It’s going to take much more than that to kill me! I’m going back to bed! … at least that’s what I’m telling myself right now in bed.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/misa0000kao/status/56021140702904321

地震なんてなんぼのもんじゃぁああああああい！俺はそんなことでは終わらんぞ！寝るぞ！と言い聞かせる！

Incredible Number of Ambulances

2011-04-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

An hour has passed … there is a tremendous number of ambulances going in and out of Miyagi Nohara Hospital. The earthquake caused an instant blackout again, but thankfully the power seems to have been restored.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/tarepatare/status/56021137137745920

もう１時間たったのか… 宮城野原の国立病院近く、救急車がすごい数往来してる。地震で一瞬停電したけど、ほどなく復活したのが幸い。

Ground Swayed in Big, Slow Waves

2011-04-07T09:08:00.000-07:00

I was terrified all over again. The ground swayed back and forth in big, slow waves and I felt like crying. 7.4 aftershocks … wow, we still really can’t let down our guard. But was glad I was together with all my friends.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/mamuuattotcg/status/56022667102388225

地震怖かったー長いしゆっくり大きく揺さぶられてる感じがした（泣）M7.4とかまだまだ油断ならないよー（ ; ; ）でもみんなと一緒で良かったー（ ; ; ）

Wedding Anniversary

2011-04-07T06:06:00.001-07:00

It’s been almost a month since the quake. The environment that my family lives in has changed completely since that day, and it is going to be difficult to think and live normally again any time soon. We have been living as strong as we could with scars in our hearts, but where we can, we need to shift gears so that we can overcome and move on. Speaking of which ... it’s midnight and I just noticed, the date has changed and it’s our wedding anniversary! I think I'm going to take my wife out for a drink at the neighborhood bar.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/watamayu627/status/55657010737315840

もうすぐ、震災から1ヶ月経つけど、あの日から変わってしまったわが家を取りまく「非日常的生活」から脱せない日々。心の引っかき傷が消えないまま、走り続けてきたけど、戻れる生活は戻さないと。気がついたら、日付変わって、今日は結婚記念日！夜中に、夫婦で近くのバーにてお祝い。

Young Employee Donates Full Month's Salary

2011-04-07T02:27:00.000-07:00

A young, recently hired employee in my company donated his entire salary for March to disaster relief. Everyone in the office agreed that “Yup, that’s way bigger than Mr. Son’s 10 billion yen donation.” (click here to read article)

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/flyingironhorse/status/55715485639122944

会社の若人が3月分の給料全額を義援金として出したとのこと。職場の評価は「SB孫氏の100億よりすごい・・・」で一致。

Delivery of Sweets Delight Children

2011-04-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

We just received a delivery from my hometown in Tokyo; drinking water, rice, and sweets. We’re so grateful. When we found sweets in the box the children went crazy with glee! There was my one-year old son drawing a chocolate moustache on his face with a choco marshmallow, and beside him his five-year old sister digging into the ramen crackers. My poor children cannot play outside here in Miyagi, so it is such a blessing when there is a nice big surprise for them at home.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/minmin_65/status/55167792021897216

東京の実家から飲料水、無洗米、甘味が届いた(感謝)段ボールの中から駄菓子を見つけテンション急上昇↑の子供達o(^∇^o)(o^∇^)oチョコマシマロでちょび髭を作る一才弟にヤッターメンをほおばる五才姉…外で遊べないので宅配サプライズはかなり嬉しい！

Sake Brewery's Appeal: "Don't Stop the Festivities For Us"

2011-04-06T03:28:00.000-07:00

My name is Kuji Kōsuke. I am the fifth generation brewer of "Nanbu Bijin" ("Southern Beauty") Sake, from Ninohe City in Iwate Prefecture.

Iwate Prefecture was severely damaged in the recent North-Eastern Japanese Earthquake. My brewery was also badly damaged; a chimney fell down, and an old part of the brewery was destroyed. However we are trying to rebuild as fast as we can.

We are of course extremely grateful for your donations. We also received great amounts of supplies. We are truly grateful.

With the situation here in Tohoku region, it’s not really the time to be drinking sake. But if things are left at that, we’ll be badly damaged a second time, this time by the economic side-effects of the tsunami.

Sake improves well-being and soothes the soul, and we would like call on everyone in Japan to support us by continuing to buy and drink our sake. In fact, we would be far more grateful if you held hanami (spring festival) parties like you do every year, instead of cancelling them out of a sense of propriety [as some government authorities have done].

Japanese sake sooths the soul, makes food more delicious and gives us all a feeling of luxury. Please continue to buy and drink Japanese sake. We make our sake from nothing but rice, water and kōji (rice malt), we believe it has the ability to bring spirit and energy to the people in Japan. We urge you to take the energy you gain from drinking our sake and use it to help the devastated areas in any way you can.

We sake brewers of Iwate urge all Japanese people, especially those in the metropolitan areas, to help us continue our ancient art of making sake. Let us continuously improve upon it, and not let it die. Help us grow strong again so that we can in turn help rebuild our coastal regions. Please support us by buying, drinking, and continuing to appreciate our sake.

Thank you.

Volunteers Work in Shifts to Sort Through Donated Aid Goods

2011-04-05T01:28:00.000-07:00

About 30 volunteers, made up of students and office workers, began sorting through donated aid goods this morning in Okayama prefectural city hall.

One after the other, ground sheets, tissue paper etc were brought into the public rooms on the first floor and sorted into boxes by the volunteers. When packed, the boxes were delivered to meeting rooms in the south wing that had been turned into temporary storage. The work was divided in to early and late shifts, and continued until 9pm.

Around 130 people volunteered. The work will continue until the 21st in alternating groups of 30-40 people. Meanwhile, from the 14th when donations opened until today, around 2100 people have brought over 20 different kinds of goods such as batteries and disposable nappies.

According to the prefectural authorities, every day since the earthquake they have received about 10 enquiries from people wanting to help in the affected area. However, the situation on the ground is still uncertain and it is difficult for volunteers to go there. "At this stage, we want people to take measures in their local area by donating money and goods" said a spokesperson.

(Original Japanese text)
http://town.sanyo.oni.co.jp/news_s/d/2011031823324796

救援物資の仕分け始まる

岡山県庁でボランティア３０人

　県庁で朝から始まった救援物資の仕分け作業には、学生や会社員ら約30人のボランティアが参加した。

　１階県民室には毛布やビニールシート、ティッシュペーパーなどが次々に運び込まれ、品目別に段ボールに箱詰め。
　詰め終わった箱は倉庫代わりに用意した南棟の会議室へ台車で搬送。作業は早番、遅番に分かれ、午後９時まで続いた。
　県の仕分けボランティアには約１３０人が応募。人を入れ替えながら、30〜40人ずつが21日まで作業を行う。
　一方、14日に受け付けが始まった救援物資はこの日までに、約２１００人から乾電池や紙おむつなど約20品目以上が持ち込まれた。
　県によると、被災地は状況が落ち着かずボランティアの現地入りが難しい中、地震の発生以来、「現地で支援活動をしたい」といった問い合わせも日に十数件あるという。県は「現段階では募金のほか、物資の支援など県内で取り組めることを求めたい」としている。(3/18 23:32)

Drawing the Sad Line

2011-04-05T01:25:00.000-07:00

Very soon, the municipal governments will begin defining what constitutes a “victim” of the tsunami and who is eligible for which level of support. There will necessarily be a line drawn somewhere and families living 1 meter apart may be given different levels of aid. I know this is not how anybody wants to do this but also that it is unavoidable. There are limits to what can be done. It is a sad struggle, both for those drawing the line and for those waiting for the line to be drawn.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/y_hollow/status/55178863524851713

これから、「被災者」「被災地」の定義が始まる。例えば、１m向こうに住んでいただけで、そこに線が弾かれるかもしれない。そのやむを得ない暴力は、誰かの意思によるものではない、システムの限界。線を引く側にとっても、引かれる側にとってもつらい、憂鬱な戦い。

Cambridge University Judge Business School Discusses Japan Quake & Economy

2011-04-04T16:41:00.000-07:00

In this podcast, Dr. Matthias Holweg from the University of Cambridge Judge Business School discusses the impact of the devastation left by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami on Japan's economy.

According to Dr. Holweg, supply chains from Japanese electronics, automotive and aerospace manufacturers face short-term disruption. But in the medium- to long-term it will be business as usual for production outside Japan. However, he says that worldwide companies are being forced to reconsider their global supply chains by the 'turmoil' in the oil and energy markets. "We will see a change from global supply to products made locally to local demand."

Thankful To Be Married, Thank You Wife!

2011-04-04T03:13:00.000-07:00

I often find myself thinking how fortunate I am to be married. For example, when we were sending clothes to my mother in Minami Sanriku (one of the most devastated areas: see http://voicesfromjapan.blogspot.com/2011/03/movies-from-ground-tsunami-engulfs.html), my wife knew to send things that I would never have been able to think of on my own, such as specific kinds of warm underwear or socks. My wife even knew to send a complete set of cosmetics, again, a need that I would have been entirely oblivious to. My mother called and thanked us profusely. She had never before used some of the makeup items my wife had sent, found them wonderfully useful, and asked us for more! Thank you, dear wife!

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/urebass/status/54736212358987776

いやしかし結婚してて良かったと思うことが結構ある。たとえば母の支援用衣類。暖かいインナーやら、もこもこ靴下やら、俺だけならまず思いつかない。化粧品一式についても然り。今まで拭くだけコットンをつかったことのなかった母はしきりに感動して、詰め替え用を要求してきた。嫁様ありがとう。

A Hakodate Company's First Work Day After Quake

2011-04-04T01:55:00.000-07:00

Today, employees in my company in Hakodate have started organizing the documents scattered on the desks. The office is practically in ruins. These days on the path to recovery will probably be by far the most challenging throughout their employment history. I was touched at the sight of each of them working hard, doing their own part to make that recovery come true as soon as possible.

http://twitter.com/#!/yoiyumewo/status/54796941724356608

うちの優秀なスタッフが、今朝から私の事務机の上にたまった書類を整理してくれている。なにしろ、大災害後の瓦礫状態なもので…。おそらく、ここで働きだして最も困難を極める任務になるだろう。一日もはやい復興めざし頑張る姿に、思わず感動。

My City Recovering, One Step at a Time

2011-04-04T01:37:00.000-07:00

Just now, I felt a thrill of excitement seeing a Tokyo-bound train running on the JR Joban Line between Katsuda and Mito. My city is on its way towards recovery, one step at a time. I hope to see the Hitachinaka Kaihin Line running again soon too!

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/fatman1224/status/54745428184416257

先ほど、勝田駅〜水戸駅間を東京方面に向けて走っているJR常磐線の電車を見て感動した。少しずつ一歩一歩着実に復興している。次はひたちなか海浜鉄道の復興を見たい。

Free Bottled Water from Hokkaido

2011-04-04T01:29:00.001-07:00

My father just drove huge amounts of water to the “aid supplies collection point” for areas that still had standing houses and people living in them. We have been buying water from Kagoshima regularly, so we have enough to go around the family. But today, some curry powder we had ordered from a shop in Hokkaido arrived together with lots of free bottled water. Thank you, to the kindness of the curry shop in Hokkaido.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/gon_love_sho/status/54797900835856384

父が大量の水を持って家のある市の支援物資集積所に向かった。常に鹿児島から水を取り寄せているので問題なかったのだが、いつもカレーを取り寄せている北海道の会社からご好意で水が送られてきたからだ。北海道の会社の方の気持ちに感動した。

To not be an Indifferent Spectator

2011-04-03T06:31:00.000-07:00

I was touched and inspired by the sight of my wife, who was born and brought up in the devastated Miyako area, working tirelessly to send incredible volumes of cookies to the children of her hometown. I was terribly ashamed of myself for having done nothing but put some coins in the donation boxes. I felt so passive and cold. I need to carefully think again what it is that I can do for these people; if I don’t, I will end up being nothing but an indifferent spectator to their suffering.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/porepore222/status/53616012037324800

今回の震災で被災した宮古市出身の妻が地元で頑張っている子供達へ大量の鳩サブレを送ろうと努力している姿を見て感動した。いつも義援金ボックスにコインを入れている受身の自分を猛烈に情けなく思う。自分が何ができるのか、考え直さなければ。単なる傍観者になってしまう

120 Miles of Bullet Train Infrastructure Restored

2011-04-02T11:14:00.000-07:00

As another testimony to Japan's incredible ability to restore it's infrastructure regardless of the mass damage inflicted on highly complex and expensive technology, large sections of Japan's bullet train systems between Tokyo and the north are already operational, with the rest to quickly follow and be fully restored within April.

(Pre-March 11th footage of major Bullet Train systems in Japan)

The Tohoku Bullet Train system had approximately 1,200 badly damaged sections over a 310-mile area, including severed cables, broken power poles, and cracks in the elevated tracks (see photo below). However, approximately 120 miles have already been restored, with bullet trains already operational.

There were also no fatalities on the Bullet Train system as a result of the March 11 earthquake.

Although twenty-four Tohoku line Bullet Trains were running at high speeds when the quake struck, they all stopped without a single derailment because a network of nine seismographs along the coast and 44 seismographs along the Bullet Train route detected the initial seismic movements and emergency brakes were applied.

A JR East official said, "After the Chuetsu earthquake, people in Niigata told us, 'Restoring Bullet Train services will bring brighter news to the quake-hit areas.' We want the restoration of full services on the Tohoku Bullet Train Line to contribute to rebuilding efforts."

The name of the primary Bullet Train model running between Tokyo and Sendai is the Nozomi model (transl: Hope). The Bullet Train was a symbol of Japanese economic recovery after WWII. Apart from its practical and crucial role to connect Tokyo to the disaster-hit areas, its incredibly fast restoration also is a message of hope to the people in the north that they are no longer isolated, and that big help is on its way, fast.

Referrences: http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201103290189.html

Engulfed Sendai Airport Reopened After 5 Days

2011-04-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

Incredibly, Sendai Airport, which was entirely engulfed in the tsunami on March 11th (see footage below), was reopened on March 16th for limited relief flights and continues towards full reopening at a tremendous pace (see photo below).

Sustained Recovery and Cities of Inspiration

2011-04-02T06:09:00.000-07:00

It is true, celebrities and companies from abroad are kindly offering incredible assistance to us in Japan. But that alone is not going to be enough to get us back on our feet. For sustainable recovery to happen, we need to increase the profitability of our own companies so that they can increase assistance to our people and raise employment in the hard-hit areas. One day, when these cities are once again standing tall, I hope to see that they have become cities with some of the most inspiring histories in the world.

（Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/tune0518/status/53615056432271361　

もちろん、世界の著名人や企業が大きな支援をしてくれています。　しかし、それだけでは足りません。　会社の利益を伸ばし、支援をする。　求人を増やしていく、これが私たちにできる最善の道です。　被災地が復興を遂げるとき、世界でもっとも感動する歴史を持つ街になって頂きたい。

Soldiers Delight "Tiny Graduates"

2011-04-01T07:43:00.000-07:00

Operation Tomodachi, the US Armed Forces assistance program to Japan. It is touching to see the relationship grow beyond that of simply US troops helping Japanese earthquake and tsunami victims. Some US soldiers were helping with the removal of debris when children in a nearby kindergarten came outside for their little "graduation" ceremony. Upon seeing this, the soldiers quickly finished their work, joined the little children, and delighted them by forming a “human tunnel” through which the tiny little “graduates” could run. It is a sad world, but there definitely is hope.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/Osoban/status/53660067404328961

オペレーション友達。米軍の支援作戦。そこで米軍と被災者との立場を越えた交流に感動。瓦礫の撤去時に、たまたま幼稚園の卒園式に米軍が遭遇。そこで、米軍は作業を早く済ませ、卒園する園児達に人間のトンネルを作り上げ、園児達を祝福した。悲しい世の中だけど、捨てたもんじゃない。

1000 Yoshinoya Beef Bowls a Day

2011-04-01T06:38:00.001-07:00

Yoshinoya (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoshinoya) is delivering a thousand beef bowls per day to one of the hard-to-access, hard-hit areas. I saw evacuees eating the hot beef bowls with gratitude all over their faces. It was a heartwarming sight. I hope Yoshinoya continues doing this. Regardless of whether the public thinks Yoshinoya’s beef bowls are cheap or expensive, what Yoshinoya did has won a them a customer in me.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/ootoshibungeido/status/53690061664944128

吉野家が被災地で1日1000食の牛丼を炊き出ししています。被災者が温かい牛丼を食べて感動していました。すごく微笑ましい話しです。吉野家にはずっと続けてほしいですね。牛丼の値段が安い高いではなく、吉野家の行動を見て吉野家の牛丼が食べたいと思いました。

Job Interviews on Skype

2011-04-01T01:45:00.000-07:00

There were senior-year students who were applying for jobs in my company but could not come to our office to complete their final-round interviews because of the quake and tsunami. My company sent each one a mic and camera, and I've just finished interviewing all of them on Skype video chat. It actually felt very natural and efficient. Maybe we should make Skype interviews our standard from now on!

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/AKwta/status/53714489878654976

被災の関係で来社できない学生にマイクとカメラを郵送し、スカイプのビデオ通話を使った最終面接を終了。全く違和感なく面接を終えました。来年度は関西方面の学生もスカイプで良いかも。

Broadband Now Available in 171 Evacuation Facilities

2011-03-31T06:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers,

As of today, 171 of the evacuation facilities in Japan have broadband internet access. Please remember that your voice is important. If you leave your comments on “Voices From Japan”, they can be translated into Japanese for Japanese readers. This could be invaluable especially if the reader happens to be from one of these evacuation facilities.

Thank you

---------------------------------------------------

Yahoo Headlines. 3.31.2011 (Translated by Jun Shiomitsu)

Internet connectivity is up again in many of the evacuation facilities in Japan. News agencies, radio stations, TV broadcasting stations, and “Information volunteers” have been posting a lot of helpful information on the net, and now, this information can be linked with the data being offered by the evacuees themselves to allow increased organization and efficiency for the ongoing aid effort. The government is also active in continuing the push to increase connectivity in these areas.

As of March 30^th yesterday, with the cooperation of NTT East Japan and multiple major electronics and computer brands, 171 evacuation facilities in and around Miyagi, Iwate and Fukushima prefectures have installed PCs with broadband connectivity, with close to half of them featuring Wifi.

Minichi Shimbun (one of top three news agencies) and the mass media have been uploading information useful to the evacuees. However, what stands out this time is that individuals or groups, calling themselves “Information Volunteers”, have used Twitter and other social media platforms to offer accurate information regarding traffic, infrastructure, or even public baths and various other tips useful to evacuees.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://headlines.yahoo.co.jp/hl?a=20110331-00000028-mai-soci　

東日本大震災の避難所で、インターネット接続環境の整備が始まった。新聞やラジオ、テレビなどに加え日本全国の「情報ボランティア」らが、被災者支援のための情報をネットで発信しており、被災者発の情報とリンクすることで、よりきめこまやかな被災地支援が可能になる。今後、行政などを交えての一層の整備拡大が求められている。

　ＮＴＴ東日本は、電機メーカー、パソコン機器メーカーらの協力のもと、３０日現在、宮城県や福島県、岩手県などの１７１カ所の避難所に、ブロードバンド回線とパソコンを設置。無料の「インターネット接続コーナー」を整備し始めた。無線ＬＡＮ接続のできるコーナーもそれらの半数近くにある。今後、「できるところから」順次設置箇所を拡大させていく方針という。

　被災地に向けては、毎日新聞などマスメディアが生活情報の発信を続けているが、個人や団体による「情報ボランティア」も、ツイッターやサイトなどで、交通やインフラ、入浴可能な銭湯など、さまざまな情報を流している。【高橋望】

Fireworks and Spring Festivities

2011-03-30T04:53:00.000-07:00

The Governor of Shizuoka said today at the regular press conference: “I hope to move our citizens’ moods from one of restraint after our heavy loss to one that encourages recovery. As such, we will not cancel our annual spring festivals. Fireworks and festivities are important for strengthening the bond amongst our citizens and we will conduct the spring festivities as we do every year, this year with the added mission of giving strength to the weary, offering a silent prayer with every firework that is launched into the sky.”

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/rc_shizuokaken/status/52958771009433600

本日の知事定例記者会見。「自粛ムードを応援ムードに変えていきたい。祭りや花火は地域の絆を確かめるためのものでやめるべきではない。花火は一発一発に思いをこめて実施を。県のイベントは応援の意味を付加して実施していく」。

Voices From Japan is Growing

2011-03-29T10:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers,

I am grateful to be able to announce our 500^th Facebook “Like” today. Additionally, the fact that our Google search ranking has advanced from 35^th last week to 3^rd this week is a testimony of your readership and concern.

I would be thankful if you would continue to recommend Voices From Japan to your friends by posting it on your Facebook wall or sending them the link <http://voicesfromjapan.blogspot.com/>.

May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with Japan in its hour of need.

Thank you.

Jun Shiomitsu

Amazing People of the JSDF

2011-03-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

A trooper of a Japanese Self Defense Force unit dispatched to the evacuation facilities told me, “Even if some of the rice we cooked for the evacuees is left over, we do not eat it. We have our rationed, cold canned rice. We heat up water for the evacuees to bathe in, but we don’t use it ourselves. We do everything in our power to help the evacuees, and then quietly leave for the day. That’s our job.” What amazing people.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/minamiozaki/status/47665799384662016

自衛隊の人が「被災地で炊き出しをした際、たとえ余っても自衛隊員は絶対食べないで缶詰の冷たいご飯を食べます。被災地の人用にお風呂を用意しても自衛隊員は入りません。そして出来るすべての事をやったらひっそりと帰る。それが自衛隊です。」　凄いと思う。　

9 Year Old Boy Teaches Self-Sacrifice

2011-03-29T07:17:00.000-07:00

This letter, written by Vietnamese immigrant Ha Minh Thanh working in Fukushima as a policeman to a friend in Vietnam, was posted on New America Media on March 19. It is a testimonial to the strength of the Japanese spirit, and an interesting slice of life near the epicenter of Japan's crisis at the Fukushima nuclear power plant. It was translated by NAM editor Andrew Lam, author of "East Eats West: Writing in Two Hemispheres." Shanghai Daily condensed it.

Brother,

How are you and your family? These last few days, everything was in chaos. When I close my eyes, I see dead bodies. When I open my eyes, I also see dead bodies.

Each one of us must work 20 hours a day, yet I wish there were 48 hours in the day, so that we could continue helping and rescuing folks.

We are without water and electricity, and food rations are near zero. We barely manage to move refugees before there are new orders to move them elsewhere.

I am currently in Fukushima, about 25 kilometers away from the nuclear power plant. I have so much to tell you that if I could write it all down, it would surely turn into a novel about human relationships and behaviors during times of crisis.

People here remain calm - their sense of dignity and proper behavior are very good - so things aren't as bad as they could be. But given another week, I can't guarantee that things won't get to a point where we can no longer provide proper protection and order.

They are humans after all, and when hunger and thirst override dignity, well, they will do whatever they have to do. The government is trying to provide supplies by air, bringing in food and medicine, but it's like dropping a little salt into the ocean.

Brother, there was a really moving incident. It involves a little Japanese boy who taught an adult like me a lesson on how to behave like a human being.

Last night, I was sent to a little grammar school to help a charity organization distribute food to the refugees. It was a long line that snaked this way and that and I saw a little boy around 9 years old. He was wearing a T-shirt and a pair of shorts.

It was getting very cold and the boy was at the very end of the line. I was worried that by the time his turn came there wouldn't be any food left. So I spoke to him. He said he was at school when the earthquake happened. His father worked nearby and was driving to the school. The boy was on the third floor balcony when he saw the tsunami sweep his father's car away.

I asked him about his mother. He said his house is right by the beach and that his mother and little sister probably didn't make it. He turned his head and wiped his tears when I asked about his relatives.

The boy was shivering so I took off my police jacket and put it on him. That's when my bag of food ration fell out. I picked it up and gave it to him. "When it comes to your turn, they might run out of food. So here's my portion. I already ate. Why don't you eat it?"

The boy took my food and bowed. I thought he would eat it right away, but he didn't. He took the bag of food, went up to where the line ended and put it where all the food was waiting to be distributed.

I was shocked. I asked him why he didn't eat it and instead added it to the food pile. He answered: "Because I see a lot more people hungrier than I am. If I put it there, then they will distribute the food equally."

When I heard that I turned away so that people wouldn't see me cry.

A society that can produce a 9-year-old who understands the concept of sacrifice for the greater good must be a great society, a great people.

Well, a few lines to send you and your family my warm wishes. The hours of my shift have begun again.

Ha Minh Thanh

(Original Text on Shanghai Daily)
http://www.shanghaidaily.com/article/?id=467066&type=Opinion

At Least This Time We Don't Have Bombs

2011-03-29T01:28:00.001-07:00

On the train this morning, I overheard two elderly women speaking. “The police told me I need to turn off the lights because there isn’t enough to go around.” The other replied, “Oh well, we’ve done this before haven't we, going without lights for country and Emperor. Of course I’ll do it gladly this time too. At least this time it’s not like we have bombs falling on our heads!” There was a moment of respectful silence by all around and I nearly cried.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/tabletalkcafe/status/46874434400821248

来る時に電車で聞いたおばあちゃんの会話。「警察が電気足りないから電気（灯り）消せって」「私たちは御国のために電気消して過ごすのは慣れてるのよ。今回は頭の上に爆弾降って来るわけじゃないんだもの、喜んで消すわよね」周囲の人々一瞬しん･･･となる。涙が出そうになった。

I'm Going to Tell my Future Grandchildren

2011-03-29T00:41:00.000-07:00

One day, I’m going to tell my children and my grandchildren. I’m going to tell them “When Grandma was young, she lived through the Big Earthquake of 2011, and on that day it seemed the whole world became one. She saw every last person stand up to put body and soul into helping one another pull through. It was glorious.” I’m going to keep telling this story until they don’t want to hear it from me anymore. So please get well soon, people of Japan.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/lovkayo21/status/47172194421321728

いつか自分の子供や孫に話そう。｢おばあちゃんが若かった時、東日本大震災があって世界中が１つになった。皆が一つのために必死になって支えあって輝いていたんだよ｣って。相手が聞き飽きるまで話そう。だから1人でも多くの人に元気になってほしい。

Don't Worry, We'll Rebuild all of it!

2011-03-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

I heard this from a friend. At an evacuation facility, an elderly man sadly whispered to himself, “What are we going to do now?” A young teenage boy who was nearby heard him and, putting his arm around him, comforted him saying, “Don’t worry. When we grow up, we will rebuild all if it. I promise!” When I saw this boy, I knew Japan's future is secure.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/nekoshima83/status/46635888704360448

千葉の友達から。避難所でおじいさんが「これからどうなるんだろう」と漏らした時、横に居た高校生ぐらいの男の子が「大丈夫、大人になったら僕らが絶対元に戻します」って背中さすって言ってたらしい。大丈夫、未来あるよ。

My Son Cried Himself to Sleep

2011-03-28T06:43:00.001-07:00

My son cried himself to sleep again today. The earthquake had hit when we were at home, so in some strange way he is now terrified of being at home. I’m trying to cheer him up by turning on some upbeat music and lightening up the atmosphere by helping him have fun at home. I wish I could do more to soothe my little boy.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/#!/yasnao/status/46908985755959296

息子、本日も泣きながら寝ました。ゆれたのが家にいるときなので、家にいいるとどうしても怖いみたいで。。家にいるとき楽しい音楽かけるようにしてみたんだけど、もうちょっと楽しげな雰囲気にしたり、楽しいことを家でやったりするのが必要かなあ。

Press & Publicity: Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co.

2011-03-28T00:02:00.000-07:00

Some companies have approached Voices From Japan to ask to use its translations in their company publications. This one is from the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company. It is under "Latest Issue of Ripples" on the bottom left of the page.

http://www.pldt.com.ph/governance/Pages/summary.aspx

A New, Higher Level of Civilization

2011-03-26T05:13:00.001-07:00

Life has a truly amazing ability to adapt. This summer, I know we will face significant challenges like the ongoing power shortage. But I really think that Japan will rise from all of this to pioneer the way to a new, higher level of civilization ahead of the rest of the world.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/kenichiromogi/status/51444097122189312

生命の適応力は、本来凄まじい。今年の夏にかけての電力不足は深刻だが、世界に先駆けて、日本で新しい文明のかたちが生まれるきっかけになるかもしれない。

My Boyfriend, Off with His Rescue Unit

2011-03-26T03:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I said goodbye to my loved one as he left for one of the hardest-hit areas, Minami Sanriku in Miyagi. He is a member of the Fire Department's special rescue unit. As I bade him goodbye, I asked “Are you scared?” He simply answered “I just feel sorry for those people whose bodies are still buried and cold and lonely. I just want to help find their bodies as soon as possible so that they can be returned to their families.” This from my boyfriend who is normally so shy he can’t go shopping for clothes by himself. Seeing his quiet resolve, I stifled my tears and sent him off with a smile.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/_amurita_/status/51489294690426880

昨日、私の大切な人が南三陸沖へ出動しました。彼はハイパーレスキュー。「怖い？」と聞いたら「埋まって亡くなられた方が寒いのが、可哀想なだけ。早く出して家族の元へ還したいだけ」と。休日1人で服も買いに行けないシャイな彼が。私も泣かずに送り出しました。

We are Alive

2011-03-25T06:36:00.003-07:00

We hurt because we are alive. We fall because we can walk. We feel lost because we are striving to move forward. We feel fear because we are fighting the fight.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/MeikakuGen1222/status/51123238440419328

痛いのは生きているから転んだのは歩いたから迷っているのは前に進みたいから逃げ出したいのはたたかっているから

Those Who Still Have Jobs

2011-03-25T06:31:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a long battle. I think it’s very important for those of us who still have jobs to put our backs into it so that we can donate to those in need, not just once, but twice and thrice.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/ariyoshihiroiki/status/50868914451787776

長期戦だから、働ける奴は頑張って働いて。義援金を一回で止めず、二回、三回と継続することが大事っぽい感じがする。

Short Term Hire of Evacuees

2011-03-25T02:09:00.000-07:00

I received a call from a friend in Tohoku saying “I want to evacuate the Tohoku area together with 5 or 6 of my colleagues”. I asked my company’s president if we could hire them for about half a year, and was amazed and touched at how he happily agreed immediately. Although they decided to stay in Tohoku after all, my president’s willingness to help my friends was beautiful; I am very grateful.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/ten_carat/statuses/51204571929919489

関東の友達から「スタッフ5、6人で避難したい」と電話。半年ほど間借りさせてもらえないか知り合いの会社に相談したら、社長が快く引き受けてくれた。結局、避難話は保留になったけど、社長のキモチに感動＆感謝。

The Quake has made People Gentle

2011-03-24T05:23:00.000-07:00

When I walked into the convenience store with my little children today, the lady behind the counter saw my children and, whispering to me saying “If you’re here for some water, take these!”, gave me 2 full liters of water! I’m so grateful. It really seems people have suddenly become so gentle and caring ever since the quake.

http://twitter.com/romiunie/status/50888586442178560

今日、サンクスにぷらっと子連れで立ち寄ったら、『お水、1本ですがありますよ』とレジのおばさまが耳打ちしてくださり、2リットルのお水をゲットしました。ありがたい。っていうか、なんか地震以降いろんな人が優しくなった気がする。

2 Liters of Water

2011-03-24T05:18:00.000-07:00

With my little baby boy in my arms and a 500ml bottle of water in my shopping basket, I was waiting in line to pay when a stranger gently asked me, “Hi. Would you like to swap?” and handed me a 2L bottle of water! The only reason I hadn’t gone for the 2L although I wanted it was because of the long queue waiting for it and I was carrying my baby with me. Thank you, thank you, to the kind stranger. I shall remember her goodness to me and repay it by being good to someone else too.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/tokyofuzz/status/50737898668036096

息子を抱っこしつつ500mlの水１本をカゴに入れてレジに並んだら、知らない女性が「水、交換しませんか」と2Lのを差し出してくれた…！ 2Lは並ばないと入手できなかったはずなのに。ありがとうありがとう。わたしも次はこの恩を誰かに譲るよ。ペイフォワード。

Little Smiling Faces

2011-03-23T17:08:00.000-07:00

The Saitama Shintoshin evacuation center where the Fukushima evacuees are staying until the end of March. The picture shows the smiling faces of children who had lost their families to the tsunami. (Photo provided by a friend of Jun Shiomitsu)

Graduation in Evacuation

2011-03-23T17:01:00.001-07:00

Good morning! The children in primary school had their graduation ceremony yesterday inside the evacuation facility. Despite the difficult times, my heart filled with hope and happiness seeing these little ones take their first steps into their next chapter in life. Good luck!

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/yoneppi/statuses/50694501337006080

おはようございます。避難所生活を送っている小学校も昨日、卒業式。辛い生活のなかでも感謝とともに旅立つ児童の姿に感動！頑張って！

The Stars

2011-03-23T16:51:00.000-07:00

The rolling power outages brought wonderful things too; the stars are just breathtaking!

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/gm0yuka/statuses/50675520458850304

節電で嬉しい事もありました。星が綺麗です。

Hope and Courage

2011-03-23T16:42:00.001-07:00

I am simply moved by the courage of the men and women of the Fire Department, Self Defense Force, and the employees of TEPCO at the Fukushima plant who are fighting hard to contain the situation. These people are also direct victims of the disaster, but they stayed behind to fight for us. We the people of Japan would be letting them down if we give up hope and courage. The most important thing for Japan now is hope and courage … in every last one of us.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/ohminegakujin/statuses/50621433214271489

最悪の事態にさせないために闘っている消防や警察や自衛隊や東電の下請けの作業員の方々の勇気に感動します。その人たちも被災者で、それでも闘っている。国民のみんなが勇気と希望を持たなければ彼らを裏切ることになる。今は一人一人が勇気と希望を持つことだ。

The Power of Accumulated Gratitude

2011-03-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

Many countries have come forth to help Japan in its hour of need. We the people of Japan must never forget what has been done for us. The touching moments shared and the gratitude accumulated between our countries are the most powerful force behind mutual understanding at a “populational" level. They build a bond far deeper than and on an entirely different dimension from the strategic alliances our governments may form.

(Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/hiranok/status/49682443288055808

震災に対しては、海外から多くの支援が寄せられているが、日本人は、その「恩」を忘れてはいけない。助け合うことの感謝と感動の記憶の蓄積は、国民間の相互理解をきっと推し進めてくれる。それは、政府レベルの「戦略的互恵関係」などというものよりも、もっと深い次元での結びつきとなる。

Press & Publicity: Asia One

2011-03-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

The original Twitter translations that inspired the creation of this blog featured in an article on Asia One on March 22nd:

http://www.asiaone.com/News/Latest+News/Asia/Story/A1Story20110322-269456.html

The Backrub Society

2011-03-22T01:47:00.000-07:00

The little children in my evacuation facility, where we all still live, came up with the idea of a “Backrub Society” for the elderly. I could see that the elderly were strengthened just by even spending time with the little ones, talking and laughing with them. To all the little children in the “Backrub Society”, well done!!

（Original Japanese Text)

http://twitter.com/koubouya/status/49982588214976512

避難所にいる子供たちが考えた「肩もみ隊」　お年寄りはこういうふれあいだけで元気が出るのだと感動しました。　その子供さんたちにエールを送りたいです♪

Sendai, Free as Ever

2011-03-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

It’s an amazing feeling to see Tsutaya (DVD Chain) and Starbucks open again near Sendai (directly impacted area) Station. But at the same time, there is shattered glass everywhere around the Forus department store and everywhere I turn I see the ground surface bulging and caving out of shape. There are even little holes all over the ground near the busy city center where moles had dug their ways out of the ground. Yes, life is much harder now and I still cannot sleep ever since the terror of the quake. But the atmosphere around the city of Sendai is bright and lively, free as ever.

(Original Japanese text)

http://twitter.com/#!/chiharadakuniko/status/49800032324554752

仙台駅東口のTSUTAYA、アエル２Fのスタバが営業を再開していて感動。同時にフォーラスのガラスが落下している現場や、仙台駅周辺の陥没や地面のうねり、近所のもぐらが全部地上に出てきた無数の穴のあとも。生活は不便に一変、未だ安眠できないけれど、仙台の街の空気は明るくて自由なままだ

You Saved This Nation

2011-03-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

On the news I saw the Tokyo Fire Department delivering their report to Governor Shintaro Ishihara. The governor bowed his head to the men and women of the Fire Department, and with a trembling voice said, “Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. You saved this nation.” I cried too.

(Original Japanese text)

http://twitter.com/#!/MARS305_MV/status/49759356710961152

東京消防庁、原発での活動を石原都知事に報告。石原知事は集まった消防隊全員に頭を下げて涙声で「本当にありがとうございました。あなた方がこの国を救って下さった」と述べた＠TOKYO MXニュース俺も感動して泣けた

Strawberries for a Little Girl

2011-03-20T23:02:00.000-07:00

A few days after the earthquake, in Sendai City (directly impacted area) when food was scarce, I remember seeing a little girl, about 2 years old, staring longingly at some strawberries that an old lady sitting next to her was holding. The old lady suddenly noticed the little girl and without hesitation said "Here darling, you have them. We all have to help each other in times like these, okay?" I know the old lady had been in line for several hours to buy those strawberries, but she did it just to see the overjoyed look on the little girl's face. It was a heartwarming sight.

(Original Japanese text)

http://twitter.com/kissyfufufu/status/49265103190769664

震災直後の仙台市。食糧が全くない頃。2歳くらいの女の子が、横にいた見知らぬおばあさんの持つイチゴをずーっと見てる。するとおばあさんが、「お嬢ちゃん食べなさい。困った時はお互いさまよ」　おばあさんだって、数時間並んで手に入れたイチゴ。女の子はすごく嬉しいそうにしていた。　感動した。

All that I can do, I will do!

2011-03-20T14:31:00.000-07:00

This is a message from a friend of Facebook Group member Maki Teshima.

-----------------------------------------------

These days, Tokyo's nights are dark because of the rolling power outages, and I hardly see any people outside. The stores are closing so early in the evening. General logistics all around have ground to a halt, causing serious shortage in all kinds of things. I had to order toilet paper from Osaka the other day.
There are still aftershocks everyday, and Japan's future is still very hard to see. But, maybe because my clients are mostly overseas, we are still working everyday as usual as if nothing happened.

For those of us who are not direct victims of the earthquake and tsunamis, the best we can do for our country is to live with the victims' needs constantly in mind, and to help pull Japan's economy back up on its feet by consciously living a normal life as soon as we can.

All that I can do for Japan, I will do.

(Original Japanese text)

miki2011年03月16日 23:37
東京は街に灯りが減って人がすごく少ないよ。スーパーも早く閉まっちゃうし、物流がマヒしてて、すごい品薄。
トイレットペーパーとかを大阪から送ってもらうことにしたよ。

余震も多くてまだまだ先が見えないよ。
でも、私の会社は海外のクライアントだったりするので、みんな普通に働いてるよ。

被災地じゃない私達は気をつけると同時に経済の機能を少しでも元に戻すように一刻も早く日常に戻ることが今出来ることの精一杯な気がする。

頑張るぞ！東京は街に灯りが減って人がすごく少ないよ。スーパーも早く閉まっちゃうし、物流がマヒしてて、すごい品薄。
トイレットペーパーとかを大阪から送ってもらうことにしたよ。

余震も多くてまだまだ先が見えないよ。
でも、私の会社は海外のクライアントだったりするので、みんな普通に働いてるよ。

被災地じゃない私達は気をつけると同時に経済の機能を少しでも元に戻すように一刻も早く日常に戻ることが今出来ることの精一杯な気がする。

頑張るぞ！

More Food than We Ordered

2011-03-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

My family in Sendai (close to epicenter) had ordered some food from Nagoya (in the south, not directly affected). Today, because the postal system was down, my sister went to the postal service center to collect the package. When she returned, my family was surprised to see how big and heavy the package was. Upon opening it, we found much more food than we had ordered, together with a hand-written note saying "Don't give up!" Amazing!

http://twitter.com/#!/j_kata/status/49327776716693505

妹が名古屋のお店から営業所止で買った荷物を受け取りに行ったら、やたらとデカくて重い。不思議に思いながら開けたら「ガンバ！」というメッセージと共にカップ麺とかがパンパンに詰まってた。家族全員感動。

Diary of Dai-Ni Plant Employee

2011-03-20T05:22:00.000-07:00

This is from a Mixi (Japanese social network) diary of a 22-year old employee of Tokyo Electric Power Company. She and her colleagues were stationed at the Dai-Ni plant when the tsunami hit. This post was originally posted on March 15th.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

今日の朝方発電所から避難させられ福島の親戚の家で家族と合流しました
とりあえず私は無事です。お前だけは安全な所へ行け...と言われ泣きながら企業さんの車で発電所をあとにしました
This morning, I was told to evacuate the nuclear plant where I work and go home to be with my family in Fukushima. My supervisor’s parting words were “Go! Be safe!” as he put me into a company car. I could not contain my tears as the car drove me away from my colleagues.

東電はすごく叩かれてる...
でも逃げずに命懸けで作業を続けてるのも東電です
どうか非難しないで下さい
Many people seem to be blaming TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company). But it is also my TEPCO colleagues who are risking their lives to continue working to contain the situation. They refuse to run. I beg you not to criticize them.

私も東電の社員として福島第二原発の所員として昨日まで現場対応にも参加してました
大津波警報の中夜中の3時で足元も見えないまま死ぬ覚悟で海の目の前での復旧作業...
冷却機能のある機械は海側のため津波でやられてしまいなんとか復旧しようとみんな必死でした
みんな疲労と空腹と戦いながら足を引きずりながら作業にあたっていました
As an employee at the Fukushima Dai-Ni plant, I have been on the ground helping with the recovery until just yesterday. The damaged cooling systems of the plant were located close to the sea, and we had been frantically trying to repair them for the past 4 days. Ignoring "critical level" tsunami warnings, we worked right on the shoreline at 3AM, hardly able to see our own feet in the darkness, silently knowing we could die anytime. Each one of us was sleepless, exhausted, hungry, and so tired we felt we could barely lift our feet to walk.

冷却機能を復旧できなければ第二原発も第一原発のような爆発が起きていました
それを防いで全号機冷温停止させたのも東電です
発電所を見捨てて逃げればこんな状況では済まされません
逃げずに立ち向かっているんです
みんな自分の命を顧みず停止する作業に全うしてます
Had my colleagues at TEPCO not risked their lives to do this, Dai-ni would have exploded just like Dai-ichi. If they had decided to run for their lives, the nuclear emergency would have been far, far worse. But they have not, and are still there, standing between us all and nuclear disaster. Every single one of them has put aside concern for his or her own life to continue fighting to cool the plant.

多々噂があるけど避難勧告の圏外にいれば健康に影響ある程浴びる可能性は低いです
健康に影響がある程浴びるのは発電所で頑張ってる作業員のみんなです
寝ず食わずで現場に行っています
噂に左右されず避難勧告圏外へ避難して外気になるべく触れないようにして下さい
I hear many rumors going around the news, but the truth is that there is very little danger of exposure to harmful levels of radiation outside of the evacuated areas. The only people being exposed are my brave colleagues working untiringly inside the plant. They are working with hardly any sleep nor food. Please do not be swayed by false rumors if you are outside of the evacuated area.

彼氏は今もずっと発電所で夜勤を続けてます
今はただ皆の安全を祈るしかできない...
一番怖いのは発電所で作業している皆です
逃げずにそれに立ち向かっているのは東電と関係企業さんです
家族との連絡がつかない人もたくさんいるけど現場へ向かい作業をしてます
My boyfriend is also still working inside the plant on night shift, and all I can do now is pray for his safety and that of all my colleagues. They are the ones in harm's way and they are the ones who are really, really scared; but they continue to work despite their fear.
And despite all the criticism, it is TEPCO and its employees who are standing in harm’s way to cool the plant, refusing to run. Many of my colleagues there have not yet been able to contact their loved ones.

それだけは忘れないで下さい
一人でも多くの人に知って欲しい
悪用防止の為コピーではなくＵＲＬ公開して下さい
発電所のみんなは逃げずに今も戦っています
住民の皆様には不安な思いをさせて大変申し訳なく思っています
Please do not forget about them.
I am writing about them because I want the world to know about their bravery, and that they are still there even now, fighting for us.
Please send this to your friends, but to avoid abuse please do so by sending the URL and not copy/pasting (Editor notes: I hope copy/pasting in order to translate is not a problem. Please also see URL below.)
I am very sorry for the fear that has been caused by the nuclear emergency.

誹謗中傷覚悟の上で名前も載せます
皆を守る為自分の命と引き換えに今も作業をしている人がいます
Although potentially dangerous and risky, I am also including my actual name because I am proud to be an employee of TEPCO, and I am proud to have been stationed at Dai-ni Plant when these events happened. I am proud to have been among the brave workers who are fighting even now and putting their lives on the line to bring the Plant back under control. I only hope that I can return and join them again soon.

東京電力
福島第二原子力発電所
電気機器グループ
大槻路子

Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO)
Fukushima Dai-ni Power Plant
Electric Machinery Group
Michiko Otsuki

(Original URL to Michiko's diary - Mixi login required)http://mixi.jp/view_diary.pl?&id%3B=1689991019&owner%3B_id=24641205

Day after the Quake, Life as Usual

2011-03-20T01:04:00.000-07:00

Woo Wee Min from Singapore was visiting his girlfriend in Shizuoka, when the earthquake hit. He tells about his admiration of what he saw the next day:

"The day after the quake, life went on as usual in the area where I lived, which escaped disaster. Residents could have chosen to stay indoors and be afraid, but instead they were out and about, calmly stocking up on essentials such as water and rice, and patronising the local pachinko parlour, supermarket, restaurants and cafes as if it were a routine weekend.

People chose to continue with life rather than be afraid, despite the unstated collective sense that more disaster might strike at any time."

Read the full story in Singapore Straits Times

(Link provided by FB Group member Joan Lim)

http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/Story/STIStory_645118.html

Saving Wife & Mother Through 10 ft Waters

2011-03-20T00:44:00.000-07:00

Akaiwa said he was at work a few miles away when the tsunami hit, and he rushed back to find his neighborhood inundated with up to 10 feet of water. Not willing to wait until the government or any international organization did, or did not, arrive to rescue his wife of two decades — whom he had met while they were surfing in a local bay — Akaiwa got hold of some scuba gear. He then hit the water, wended his way through the debris and underwater hazards and managed to reach his house, from which he dragged his wife to safety.

"The water felt very cold, dark and scary," he recalled. "I had to swim about 200 yards to her, which was quite difficult with all the floating wreckage."

With his mother still unaccounted for several days later, Akaiwa stewed with frustration as he watched the water recede by only a foot or two. He repeatedly searched for her at City Hall and nearby evacuation centers.

Finally, on Tuesday, he waded through neck-deep water, searching the neighborhood where she'd last been seen. He found her, he said, on the second floor of a flooded house where she'd been waiting for help for four days.

"She was very much panicked because she was trapped with all this water around," Akaiwa said. "I didn't know where she was. It was such a relief to find her."

(link provided by FB Group member Mathurot Chuladul)

http://articles.latimes.com/2011/mar/17/world/la-fg-japan-quake-scuba-20110317

Highway Rebuilt in 4 Days

2011-03-20T00:36:00.001-07:00

http://www.e-nexco.co.jp/pressroom/press_release/kanto/h23/0316f/images/01.jpg

The Joban Highway that was completely destroyed on March 11th was completely rebuilt by aMarch 15th. The efficiency and speed of rebuilding is just mindblowing! This is why we know Japan WILL recover ... very soon!

(link provided by FB Group Member Satoshi Awamura)

Japanese Spirit in Cambridge

2011-03-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

I'm proud that all my fellow Japanese MBA classmates declined to request the MBA office for any special consideration, and is resolute to face the final exams today like everybody else. I'm privileged to be counted among you. So here we go, let's go show'em all some Japanese resilience in Cambridge too! Go Japan!

(by Jun Shiomitsu)

Through the Eyes of a Child

2011-03-19T04:55:00.000-07:00

A small child was waiting in line to buy some candy. As his turn approached, I saw him look intently at the cash register for a moment, deep in thought. He then trotted to the disaster relief donations box on the counter, dropped his few coins into it, and trotted back to the shelves to return the candies that were in his hand. As the employee called after the boy thanking him saying “arigato gozaimasu!”, I heard her voice tremble with emotion.

(Original Japanese Text)

Twitter / 松元恵: 子供がお菓子を持ってレジに並んでいたけれど、順番が近 ...

http://twitter.com/#!/matsugen/status/47231589758935040

子供がお菓子を持ってレジに並んでいたけれど、順番が近くなり、レジを見て考え込み、レジ横にあった募金箱にお金を入れて、お菓子を棚に戻して出て行きました。店員さんがその子供の背中に向けてかけた、ありがとうございます、という声が震えてました。

Your Smile Keeps Me Going

2011-03-19T04:53:00.000-07:00

A man to his loved one

I've begun to keep the lights off outside the shop at nights. At home too, I'm trying to save as much electricity as I can, wherever I can. But remember, we must keep our spirits burning bright. All I need, is your smile. It keeps me going.

(Original Japanese Text) Twitter / hidenori hiroshige 昨日から店のスポットライト消しました。自宅はあちこち ...

http://twitter.com/hidewho/status/4848720118036070 5

昨日から店のスポットライト消しました。自宅はあちこちで節電実施。ただし、気持ちは燃焼させないと。君の笑顔があればこそ。頑張るぞ。

Press & Publicity: Australia Broadcasting Co.

2011-03-18T07:24:00.000-07:00

The original translations that inspired the creation of this blog featured in the Australia Broadcasting Company on March 18th:

http://open.abc.net.au/posts/8248/a-social-media-lifeline

Press & Publicity: The Guardian

2011-03-17T07:35:00.000-07:00

The original Twitter translations that inspired the creation of this blog featured in the Guardian on March 17th:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/blog/2011/mar/16/japan-nuclear-crisis-tsunami-aftermath-live

Out of Money!

2011-03-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

At the store where I work, a huge group of young men suddenly came in to buy booze. One of them suddenly said, “Oops, I only have enough money to buy booze, I can’t donate! Forget the booze, maybe next time!” and instead put ALL his money into the disaster relief donation box. One by one, every single one of the army of youths threw all their money into the box after him. What a heart-warming sight that was!

* 買うのやめるわ

http://twitter.com/raai15/status/46546475362160640

バイト先に若いお兄さんたちが軍団でお酒を買いに来たんだけど、その中の一人が｢やべえ、オレお酒のためにしかお金持ってきてないから募金できん。ちょっとこれ買うのやめるわ｣って言って商品返品してそのお金全部募金してた。お友達も続々と募金しててすごい感動した。すごいよ

Just to Give Blood

2011-03-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

Japan is strong! At Osaka I saw a LONG line of people waiting to give blood at the blood donation center. This is the first time I have seen such a queue of selfless people waiting patiently in line just to give. It was a moving sight! To everyone in the hard-hit areas, we your countrymen accept your suffering as our own and we share in your grief. Do not give up! Stay strong!

* 献血の列

http://twitter.com/NOBCHIDORI/status/46477518169047040

日本は強いです！大阪難波の献血施設は被災地の方の為に超満員の順番待ちでした。私欲の無い列を初めて見ました。感動しました。被災地の方々、全国でその辛さを受け止めます。諦めずに頑張って下さい！

Goth Youth

2011-03-13T21:32:00.000-07:00

A goth youth with white hair and body piercings walked into my store and shoved several hundred dollars (several tens of thousands of yen) into the disaster relief fund donation box. As he walked out, I and people around me heard him saying to his buddies, “I mean, we can buy those games anytime!” At that, we all opened our wallets and put our money into the donation box. Really, you cannot judge people by their appearances.

* いつでも買える

http://twitter.com/7474529/status/46565903520907264

今日、募金箱に金髪にピアスの若い兄ちゃんが万札数枚入れていた。そしてその友人に｢ゲームなんていつでも買えるからな｣と言っていたのが聞こえて私含め周りの人達も募金していた。人は見た目じゃないことを実感した。そんなお昼でした。この話感動しました。

Bus stop episode

2011-03-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

It was freezing and bus was taking ages to arrive. “@saiso” left the queue to run to a nearby pharmacy. He bought heating pads and gave one to everyone in the queue!

(Original Japanese text) * バス停で・・・

http://twitter.com/yunico_jp/status/46168394755612672

バスが全然来ない中、@saiso が、バス停の前にある薬局でカイロを買ってきて、並んで待ってる人みんなに配った！

Looked Absolutely Delicious!

2011-03-12T21:34:00.000-08:00

I too saw the guy handing out free rice balls and miso soup on the way back from Akihabara. I was on my bicycle so I told him, “I’m okay, please give it to other people!” On hindsight, I should have taken one … they looked absolutely delicious!!

* 絶対うまいはず

http://twitter.com/kyugatimuti/statuses/46594200061493249

僕も秋葉からの帰りにおにぎりとみそ汁配ってる方に会いました、感動しました、チャリだったからダイジョブです他の人にって言ったけどもらっておけばよかったなぁ絶対うまかったと思う

No Rope Needed

2011-03-12T21:07:00.000-08:00

The Oedo Subway Line for Hikarigaoka is very congested. On the platform and at the gate there are just crowds and crowds of people waiting for the train. But in all the confusion, every last person is neatly lined up waiting his or her turn while managing to keep a passage of space open for staff and people going the other way. Everyone is listening to the instructions from the staff and everyone acts accordingly. And amazingly … there isn’t even a rope or anything in sight to keep people in queue or open space for staff to pass, they just do! I am so impressed at this almost unnatural orderliness! I have nothing but praise for these people!

* ホームにて

http://twitter.com/masa_kisshie/statuses/46323838316843008

都営大江戸線の光ヶ丘方面行きは、非常に混雑しています。ホームにも、改札の外にも、電車を待つ溢れんばかりの人。でも、誰一人列を崩さず、通路を開け、係員の誘導に従っている。ロープがあるわけでもないのに、通る人のための通路スペースが。その不自然なほどの快適さに、ただただ感動するばかり。

A Big Kind Voice

2011-03-12T21:01:00.000-08:00

I’ve been walking for many hours now. I’m touched at how everywhere I turn, there are shops open with people shouting “Please use our bathroom!” or “Please rest here!” There were also office buildings where people with access to information were voluntarily shouting out helpful tips, like “**** line is now operational!” Seeing things like this after walking for hours and hours made me feel like weeping with gratitude. Seriously, there is still hope for this country!

* 呼びかけ

http://twitter.com/akanensm/status/46214540161064960

何時間も歩き続けてたんだけど、至る所でトイレかしますとか、休憩できますとか言うビルや飲食店が沢山あって感動しました。とある企業ビルの人がボランティアで、○○線運転再開ですー！とか、休憩できますー！！って呼びかけてるの見て感動して泣きそうになったマジでw日本も捨てたもんじゃないな

Candlelit Convenience Store

2011-03-12T20:57:00.000-08:00

While most of the convenience stores near the station were closed because of the quake, there was just one Seven Eleven that was open. The employees had lit lots of candles and put them on the stores shelves. The cash register was not working and they could not take inventory, so the employees worked in threes, one reading up the item description and price, another punching the numbers into a calculator, and the last one using a flashlight to help them work. The store managed to operate both “cash registers” efficiently this way. Impressed!

* コンビニ

http://twitter.com/sugarun/statuses/46323030732967936

停電地区のほとんどの店が店を閉めてる中、あるセブンイレブンが店内陳列棚にいくつもろうそくを置いて、営業をしていた。レジが使えないため在庫確認用のハンディで値段確認し読み上げ、もう1人が電卓で計算、もうひとりが懐中電灯で照らす。その状態でレジ２台稼動させていた。感動した。

Use Our Bathroom!

2011-03-12T20:56:00.000-08:00

Last night, I decided, rather than stay at the office, I should try walking home. So I slowly made my way west on Koshu freeway on foot. It was around 9PM when I saw an office building that had a sign that said “Please use our office’s bathrooms! Please rest here!” The employees of the office were loudly shouting out the same to all the people trying to walk home. I was so touch I felt like crying. Well, I guess I was too tense yesterday to cry, but now the tension is wearing off and am very much in tears.

* 開放

http://twitter.com/robasuke23/statuses/46326711935172609

昨日、歩いて帰ろうって決めて甲州街道を西へ向かっていて夜の21時くらいなのに、ビルの前で会社をトイレと休憩所として解放してる所があった。社員さんが大声でその旨を歩く人に伝えていた。感動して泣きそうになった。いや、昨日は緊張してて泣けなかったけど、今思い出してないてる。

The Beauty of Helping

2011-03-12T20:52:00.000-08:00

I went out last night to help some friends who were volunteering as security personnel between Machida City and Sagami Ohno City. I saw total strangers, both young and old, helping each other along everywhere I turned and was heartened with an overwhelming feeling of encouragement. I was so touched I hid behind the toilets and cried.

* 助け合い

http://twitter.com/sorry_no_user/statuses/46332985133375488

警備員の友人何人かが町田〜相模大野で夜間警備のボランティアをしていたので手伝ってきた。年齢問わずいろんな知らない人同士が助け合っていて心強かった。ちょっと感動してトイレの隅で泣いた。

A Strong Voice

2011-03-12T20:48:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I was impressed and touched by the actions of my neighbor’s 13-year-old-boy. He was home alone when the earthquake hit. But instead of hiding, as soon as the earthquake quieted down, he jumped on his bicycle and road around the block repeatedly shouting at the top of his voice, “Is everyone alright? Is everyone okay?” At the time, there were only women and children and the elderly in the homes. I cannot describe how comforting it was just to hear a strong voice asking if I was okay. Thank you!

* 声をかけること

http://twitter.com/RUMI88LoL/statuses/46342599149240320

昨日、裏の家の高１になるお兄ちゃんに感動した。家に１人で居たらしく、地震後すぐ自転車で飛び出し近所をひと回り。【大丈夫ですか―――！？】と道路に逃げてきた人達にひたすら声掛けてた。あの時間には老人や母子しか居なかったから、声掛けてくれただけでもホッとしたよ。ありがとう。

Message from Rome

2011-03-12T20:36:00.000-08:00

My friend in Rome emailed me. He said that people in Rome are watching the news and sharing their amazement and their heartfelt respect at how, even at a time like this, the people of Japan are able to remain calm and systematically respond to the situation. People in Rome are thinking of us and are very concerned for us.

* ローマから

http://twitter.com/tsubakianna/statuses/46387133396688896

ローマにいる友達からメール。ローマの人々はニュースを見ながらこのような状況でも冷静に対処する日本人に感動し、尊敬の念を覚えながら、非常に心配しているとのことです。

Morning Ceremony

2011-03-12T20:34:00.000-08:00

At the shopping center I work at, every morning we have a ritual (common in Japan) where we stand and recite, “No matter what the situation, I will never show anxiety before my customer; in all customer-facing situations I will treat my customers with respect and do everything I can to make them feel comfortable and at ease”. Today, these words were all actually kind of touching. Well, so the day begins! Here we go people, open shop!

* 朝礼

http://twitter.com/kyoheimai/status/46374747755388928

今朝の朝礼で「何があっても決して不安な顔は見せずに売り場に立つ以上はおもてなしをする気持ちを忘れずにお客様を安心させてあげてください」ちょっと感動した。がんばるか。開店です!

“All of us”

2011-03-12T20:33:00.000-08:00

I spoke with an old taxi driver and some elderly staff at the train stations. All of them had been working non-stop and had not been able to go home for a long time. They were visibly very tired, but never once did they show any sign of impatience; they were gentle and very caring. They told me “… because all of us are in this together.” I was touched at what the notion of “all of us” meant to these elderly people. It is a value I will treasure and carry on to my generation.

* 「みんな」

http://twitter.com/n_yum/statuses/46388003706380288

タクシー運ちゃんと電車駅員さんとおばさんと話したけど、みんな遅くまで帰れなかったりしてすごく疲れているのに、苛立つ事なく、言葉遣いもふるまいも丁寧で、逆に気遣われてしまった。｢みんな大変だから｣という"みんな"って意識があることに感動するし、私も受け継いで大事にしたい文化。

Gotenba Traffic

2011-03-12T20:26:00.000-08:00

Japan is really something! Yesterday, not a single traffic light was functioning in Gotenba City. But drivers knew to take turns at intersections and give way to others when needed. Local people were using flags to direct traffic at intersections. I drove for 9 hours but never saw a single car trying to get in front of another. Every single driver on the road contributed to the traffic situation and as a result there was no confusion at all.

* 御殿場で

http://twitter.com/Raaaaayuu/statuses/46392890313801728

実際日本すごいよ。昨日信号が一カ所も機能していない御殿場市でもお互いにドライバー同士譲り合ってたし、地元のおじいちゃんおばあちゃんが手信号やってくれてたりで、混乱もなく本当感動した。9時間運転してたけど前車を煽るようなドライバーはもちろんいなかったし、みんな譲り合い精神。

At the Supermarket

2011-03-12T20:25:00.000-08:00

I just came back safely from the supermarket! Man, I was so touched at how everyone there was mindful of others, buying only as much as they needed and leaving the rest for the people behind them.

* スーパーでの出来事

http://twitter.com/endless_6/status/46395420523503616

スーパーで無事買物出来ましたヽ(´o｀；でもお客さんのほとんどが他の人の事を考えて必要最低限しか買わない感じだったのが感動しました（涙）

Yakuza Directing Traffic

2011-03-12T20:22:00.000-08:00

Both the government and the people, everyone is helping one another today. There are truck drivers helping evacuees move. I even heard that the “yakuza” (gangsters, organized crime groups) are helping to direct traffic in the Tohoku region! There have been many recent developments that have made me lose my sense of pride in my country, but not anymore. Japan is an amazing place! I’m just simply touched. Go Japan!

* 日本ってすごい

http://twitter.com/tksksks/statuses/46403815397801984

日本って凄い。官僚も民間も、皆で助けようとしてる。トラックの運転手も有志で物資運んでるらしいし、東北の交通整備をヤクザさんがやってるという話も聞いた。最近、日本に対して誇りを持てないことが続いていたけれど、そんなことない。日本は凄い国だ。素直に感動してる。日本国の皆さん頑張ろう！

The Bakery Lady

2011-03-12T20:21:00.000-08:00

There was a small bread shop on the street I take to go to school. It has long been out of business. But last night, I saw the old lady of the shop giving people her handmade bread for free. It was a heart-warming sight. She, like everyone else, was doing what she could to help people in a time of need. Tokyo isn’t that bad afterall!

* パン屋

http://twitter.com/ayakishimoto/statuses/46403599743451136

昨日の夜中、大学から徒歩で帰宅する道すがら、とっくに閉店したパン屋のおばちゃんが無料でパン配給していた。こんな喧噪のなかでも自分にできること見つけて実践している人に感動。心温まった。東京も捨てたもんじゃないな。