Dear Japan,
My prayers are with you as you endure some of the most difficult days your county has ever faced. I learned about the earthquake / tsunami while traveling in Ireland two months ago. Since then I have visited eight countries—all with different cultures, practices and faiths. From Turkey to Thailand one theme continues to be consistent: prayers for Japan.
Inside St. Stephen’s Cathedral—Vienna, Austria (left) Inside a cafe—Ljubljana, Slovenia (right)
When I started planning my 50 day round the world adventure you were at the top of my list. You’re a country so rich in culture, beauty and sophistication—I was so excited to experience all you have to offer. This was my opportunity to seize the day and explore North Asia’s true gem.
As the situation escalated at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant—radiation levels went through the roof—I grew concerned about the reality of traveling safely. And so did my husband and family.
So with a heavy heart I made the decision to cancel my seven-day journey through your beautiful county. I changed planes in Tokyo from Bangkok to Chicago on my home after making a full circle around the globe. Just a few hours before I landed you experienced another 7.0 earthquake. I was reminded I made the right decision.
As a journalist it’s incredibility difficult to turn down the opportunity to share how Mother Nature has impacted your people and your places, even if it is for my own blog. Especially, from perspective of a journalist who covered the tsunami of 2004 in South Asia from Indonesia. This time, my family won the battle.
My prayers are with you Japan. I know I’ll be back, someday.
