Late posting, long day back to the grind. Tokyo had some rain last night and it’s a nice clear day now. Most news and events seem like any other day. No major shakes here, no major news events regarding the reactors. Work life is definitely picking up its pace. I’m planning my next trip to Tohoku. Lots of calls and leads to contact. The good news is that the amount of volunteers have increased. I’m happy that it’s hard to find slots and opportunities for going up and assisting as opposed to a deficit in support.
The next mission I plan to deliver supplies and then offer help in cleaning up. There are lots of homes and people struggling to clear out severely damaged homes. I read that the amount of rubbish is equal to 16 years of trash per household. Not to mention the toxins, decay, and dust. Masks and protective gear are a must. It’s going to be important to get as much cleared away as possible as Japan will have rainy season soon. With the rains and damp, it’s likely the place will be a breeding ground for disease and pests.
Part of the process of healing means sorting things out and letting go. Many of the people are doing this task alone and without much help. Many are old and many have lost family members. During research I’ve found a list of places and their needs list. My aim this run up is to rent my own vehicle, purchase/collect supplies, then deliver to the designated areas. Afterward, I’ll put a day of clean up support. The photo today was caught as my car was passing amid huge piles of assembled debris. An older woman was struggling to carry things from her home to the curbside. Her street was still littered with cars, wreckage, pieces form ordinary things. Well, there’s lots to do ahead.
Linh Vien Thai is Amerasian, born in Dalat, South Vietnam, where he continued to lived during the war. He left for the U.S. and is now an American living in Tokyo. He enjoys adventure traveling and doing what’s right to make the world a better place.
