661, Bukit Timah Road ( 269734 )
Hwa Chong Institution
29/3/2011
Dear Ryuzaki,
News of your predicament has travelled swiftly, far, and wide. After reading the news articles, whether online or printed, I felt compelled to write this letter to comfort and encourage you in the light of this recent string of disasters. It is to my understanding that the earthquake and tsunami have had a tremendous impact upon Japan, especially the coastal cities such as Tokyo, Iwaki, and Mito. These natural disasters triggered a series of explosions in the Fukushima reactor, located in the Fukushima province your home was located in. Iam glad that no harm has befallen you and that you have evacuated the area lest you fall prey to the deadly, creeping cloud of radiation.
Based on what I have read from live recounts, once the disaster starts, you feel as though you have lost total control of your life. The grip of terror that encircles you when you feel the ominous rumble of the quake, like an obstreperous child throwing a tantrum, the cloud of uncertainty that hangs about you, the desperate rush for food rations, news, and the assurance that family members are safe and unhurt. These cannot be entirely explained in words. Even the aftershock mimicks a sort of morbid replay of the quake, as though the quake is speaking to you, taunting you about not being in control.
I rejoice in the fact that you live and are unharmed, and urge you to overcome these fears. One thing that sets humans apart from animals is their consciousness: their ability to think and feel and will. Strengthen your resolve and your will; do not let your determination for self-preservation crumble, yet find the compassion and be willing to sacrifice in order to help others.
My hopes go with you.
James
