Tragedy in Japan

I write today not about anime, but about Japan and the tragedy it has been facing since Friday.  I learned of the 8.9 magnitude earthquake while in class, but I did not imagine the destruction that had followed.  Now, three days later, news reports on this country's devastation continue to flood our TVs.  Images of the country's people, homes and livelihoods fill news feeds online. 

After watching a few Youtube videos of the disastrous tsunami that struck the northern coast of Japan,

I can only imagine what those people felt as they watched everything dear to them wash away.  Everything within me wants to drop my life in America and fly over to aid in the relief efforts.  I would gladly put myself to work providing food and warmth for these people.  Never mind the nuclear plants that are still on the verge of a melt down.  As a human being, it feels natural to cast aside my own safety to care for those who will be struggling long after the help leaves their country.  Perhaps there is a good reason why the word "humanitarian" was created.  I feel as such right now, but yet am powerless to act on this pull.

I mean, I don't even know where they would begin to rebuild their lives.  As I read news articles, the latest in official body count has reached 2,800.  It may seem like a lot, but of the 10,000 estimated of dead, it is only a small fraction and I pray it stays down.  However, lastest news articles say the body count is still making it difficult in search and rescue, as well as funeral arrangements.  They say you learn something new everyday.  Well, while reading the article, I learned that most Japanese opt for cremation of their loved ones.  The crematoriums are overwhelmed, and the search parties are running out of body bags and coffins.  Japan is said to be thinking about turning to foreign countries for help.  I do not blame them, and I encourage those countries to aid in any way.  I know America is already in Japan doing the best they can in these dark times.

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Japan.  As more news unfolds, I will be editing this post.  Until then, I ask anyone who reads my posts to keep Japan in your thoughts. 

Please donate to help those in need during this time.