Marking 15 years since the Tohoku Disaster

Not to sound overly dramatic, but 15 years ago today, our lives changed forever. On the day of the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, March 11th 2011. We were not in the main disaster impact zone, but our world was both literally and figuratively shook up. It was the most powerful earthquake I have ever felt; and we were more than 250 kilometers away from the epicenter. But more than that, it affected our lives in a way that no other natural disaster ever has before or since.

Over the years, I have written extensively about how that earthquake affected our lives. But today, I just wanted to acknowledge the anniversary. Every year on the 11th of March I take time to face the painful memories of that time and to mourn all that was lost. The loss of life first and foremost. But also, the loss of communities, villages, towns, businesses, farmland, fishing boats, schools, historic buildings, heirlooms, precious photos, money ... and so much more. I allow myself to cry long and hard, until I feel wrung out but oddly calm, cleansed even.

As the years pass, it has become a quieter more private anniversary for me. I will mark a few minutes of silence at 2.46 pm, a time that has been forged into my memory for eternity. I will also visit a shrine and temple to pray for all those who were lost and all those who lost someone. I will never forget and I will always mark the anniversary of the Tohoku Disaster.

If you would like to support ongoing efforts in the region, here is a great, free and easy way.