「一期一会」 "Ichigo-Ichie"

There is an idiom in Japan called "Ichigo-Ichie".

Ichigo means, in a life time.
And Ichie means meeting.

Therefore, the idiom literally means, first and last encounter in life.
And it is used to emphasize the importance of enjoying every encounter as it may never come to you again.
As the meeting may be your first and last encounter with the individual.

So in Japan, in many moments we try to treasure these once in a  lifetime meetings, to take each encounter positively.
Because even though you may not notice at the time being, these encounters tend to be meaningful and valuable.

During the various times I went to volunteer up North, I met many people.

I met victims.
Victims who lost their belongings, homes, friends, and family members.
Victims who were lost, scared, nervous, optimistic, brave...

Victims who lost their temper and then later apologized for being so harsh.
Victims whose only word they exchanged with me was a simple, "Thank You."
And victims, who, from their strength and will to keep going- gave me energy.

And amongst the many victims, I also met children.
Children, who have gone through frightening and fearful experiences.
But children, who, due to their silliness and laughter made me forget-
just for brief periods of time that the natural disaster ever struck.

And finally, I also met many many volunteers.
Volunteers who were in the same group as me and who supported me.
Volunteers who I met at the volunteer center or worked beside me amongst the debris.
Volunteers who inspired me due to their kind hearts.

It is strange to think,
I would have never met these many many people...
If it were not for March 11th.

And many of these meetings were ichigo-ichie meetings.
Because many, I will never see again.
And sadly, many will forget me.

But to me, they are all valuable meetings.
Meetings that I will treasure and keep forever.

Maybe, during my time up North, what I could do to support and help was only something very very minute.
But if, through these ichigo-ichie meetings I was able to make someone happy, someone smile...
Even if it was for just a short period of time...
That would mean the world to me.

I am very thankful for these "Ichigo-Ichie" meetings.
一期一会の出会いに感謝！！！

Even though we may never meet again,
maybe our paths will cross in the future...

Playing superheroes vs. badguys

These guys fought a lot...

But they were adorable :)