Merry Christmas Everyone. . .
Posted by Warren on December 23, 2011
The year seemed to have gone by pretty fast, yes? To me it just seemed like yesterday I was frantically getting things in the mail to have them arrive on time for Christmas. Instead, this year I am surrounded by the warm hearts of the people of Rikuzentakata. I had come to the city to help clear out the forest area of debris and to possibly find the missing. It’s both a blessing and a curse that we have not found those who are still missing. Because of that many families can not find closure as of yet. Also, earlier in the week my constitution failed me and now I am nursing a bad cold. So I had to isolate myself from the rest of the volunteers as I did not want others getting sick. Internet has been off and on here as the power has not been as steady. But the people have been very cheerful. As hard as things have been It’s been gratifying working side by side with the evacuees to get their lives close to “normal” as possible. Sure there are challenges but there is definitely progress. Slow, but progress none the less. . .
December 10th . ボランティアセンター, 陸前高田で側溝泥上げボランティア(レーベン二号・信州号) Volunteer at Rikuzentakata, Destroyed by the tsunami of Great East Japan Earthquake. Courtesy of Hajime NAKANO
December 17th - Clearing the spillway and ditches around Rikuzentakata (taken by Ohshimama)
While I have the chance I would love to personally wish each one of you and your family a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS! If I have not replied to any of you through Twitter or G-plus and like, it’s not because I am ignoring you (although it may seem like it 😜 ). I do like to keep in touch so give me a chance to catch up.
To my Gaijin Heroes family I hope to be able to meet more of you in January. Meeting and being a part of the Gaijin Heroes tribe is the most memorable experience I have had so far. On a side note; if you guys ever decide to take over the world I have no doubt, with the collection of minds that is Gaijin Heroes, that can happen!
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE! And a special MERRY CHRISTMAS Gaijin Heroes!
Take care everyone and I’ll see you soon. . .
Christmas in Shiodome, Tokyo 2011. The lights were turned on December 6th.
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siliconchaos said
You’re an inspiration to many. Even though I don’t know you personally I’ve mentioned your awesome volunteer work to many friends and colleagues. I’m proud to have you as a Twitter friend.
Omedetou Kurisumasu
Warren said
I really appreciate that. I am really no one special. I just wanted to help and by doing so I hope to inspire others to help what ever the cause may be. For me it is Japan. For others it is Africa or Middle East and so on. We all do what we can. To you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a fun filled New Year! You are on my blogroll so I will never stop following you. Maybe one day we can meet in Japan! You can never know. ~peace!~
terrinakamura said
Warren, thank you for sharing this. Seeing the photos reminds people the tragedy has not yet ended. Yet for many — at least stateside—it is far from mind.
Thank you for helping people. I wish I could, too.
Merry Christmas,
Terri
Warren said
We all help in many ways. I had to be here for the friends I made and for the family I love. There are others less fortunate and I am glad we have each other. No one does it alone. And not to sound too “cheesy” but it can only get better. Happy Holiday! and here’s to a fun filled New Year’s 2012. ^_^
silverstar22b said
Merry Xmas to you my friend! Your are their hero I have no doubt.
Looking forward to see you in January,
Frank
Warren said
That means a lot to me. Thanks Frank! It’s great knowing I can see good friends again back in town. Really looking forward to just relaxing and “talking story” with the gang. Take care and see you in 2012!