While it is August 6th here in the States, it it the 7th already in Hiroshima. I offer this story in hopes of peace.
(Please see An Atomic Spark and a 1937 Yearbook and Dad Was in the Newspaper for background information.)
There is living proof of forgiveness from a few – and they let out a resounding message of world peace for us.
My son Takeshi, second cousin Izumi and my cousin Masako at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
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It was an extreme emotional experience – not just for my oldest son Takeshi and I but for the kind souls who joyfully spent their afternoons with us on a hot September day in Hiroshima. I was able to finally meet – and thank – the people who were kind enough to seek out my father’s 1937 high school yearbook and thereby give my father a joyous remembrance of his most happiest days of youth in the sunset of his long life.
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Not being a writer, putting this experience into words is…
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Masako and Spam Musubi 
Another wonderful view of cooperation and understand!!
None shown better than your Father’s post-war character. Having been on Leyte, to be able to forgive after fighting when so young in that unforgiving climate, he is a great man.
I can not thank you enough for that comment, Koji. I so wish our fathers and Old Man Jack could have gotten together just once.
What an incredible and sad date it is to remember. Some good stories around the interwebs though. Great post.
Thank you very much, AC.
A dark chapter in history, We learn from it so we can be sure not to repeat it again. The water offering, I’ve never heard of it before but I’m speechless at the meaning.
There were piles of bodies around the known wells, all of whom were wanting water.
I don’t know if I could stay sane after seeing that :S
I am so glad you shared again about your travels to the Peace Memorial. You were the first person I thought about when I heard news reports of the anniversary of this horrific event. By your family stories I have gained so much perspective on an event that happened before I was born and could remain a footnote in history, but when you share about your father and his cousins and other family members it makes everything I’ve read a very personal story. I’ve learned so much from you. Just as Andy said before me, the meaning of the water offering is absolutely profound. I hope some day we won’t need to fear nuclear warfare. Thank you, Koji. So well written.
That is all the people in Hiroshima including my cousins want. No nukes and peace. But that generation is leaving this world and I am afraid their wishes will be with the wind.
I’ve been thinking about your video. I believe, when my blog finally ends – your video should be the final post – don’t you think it would be appropriate?
End? It can never end, gpcox…
WordPress can’t support me forever.