one thing that amazed me on our missions to japan were the warm hearts we met along the way. as we all know, things are really tough for the people that got affected. so many people lost everything, but yet don’t give up hope. the strong pure hearts of the victims touched me in many ways. it was hard to hold back the tears, it was hard to laugh, it was hard to smile, and it was hard for me to even look into their eyes. i can feel their pain. but the strength of the people made me a stronger person. i learned a lot about myself since march 11th and can appreciate the little things such as the air i breathe. things are far from over but my mind and heart is still with japan all the way!
on mission 3, Kiku-chan from sendai gave our team gyu tongue (cow tongue) for power. we ate it on top of the hill and enjoyed every single bite.
Ryoko-san from ishinomaki gave our team these musubi’s and food. we ate it on our way to minami soma.
you might think that these are two normal people in tohoku that are supporting our team and missions. well, just to let you know. Kiku-chan and Ryoko-san both lost family members in the tsunami. yes, i said members. and they are yet to be found. to be able to keep strong and open their hearts to our team just amazed me. have you ever cried inside before? well, i have, and i still am. my heart still hurts for these wonderful two women and i still pray that their loved ones will be found. Kiku-chan and Ryoko-san, i feel so fortunate to have met the both of you. your courage is keeping my dreams alive to help tohoku get back to normal. i will never in my lifetime forget your kindness at such a hard time. my heart is with you all the way and we shall meet again soon! you both are a perfect example on how to give back to the people of japan. you inspire me and i’m so happy to have met you. even though i’m far away in hawaii now, my heart is in tohoku. never give up! WE ARE ONE!
