In Remembrance of March 20:
12th Anniversary of Tokyo Sarin Gas Subway Attacks, A New YorkFriend’s Reflection
All is quiet.
All is calm.
Ocean waves cover dry sand,
Leave their mark and then depart.
It is sunrise and the light reaches everywhere.
This day begins, with seagulls and ships and last touches of snow, as you
Dear friends, another ocean away,
Face 12 years anniversary day.
I do not know if time heals all wounds.
I do know time brings people together.
In the togetherness, compassion and companionship ease pain and isolation.
Your grief led to courage.
Your courage led to determination.
Both brought you to your Sister City, in search of ways to better serve each
other and your country; here our friendship began.
On this twelfth anniversary,
I can see Mrs. Takahashi placing flowers at Kasumigaseki Station.
I can hear the powerful voices of Kazu, Izumi, Miyuko, Yuli, and many more
family members and survivors, bravely telling of trauma that does not leave.
I can remember physicians eloquently speaking about health concerns for
thousands of people, so uncertain of what the future may bring.
My friends, I pray for your consolation.
I pray for your healing.
I pray that your dedicated efforts for justice be fulfilled.
“We are all in this together,”
Barbara
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