Dear friends in Japan,

As we contemplate the great number of people who have died in this tragedy, we may feel very strongly that we ourselves, in some part or manner, also have died.

The pain of one part of humankind is the pain of the whole of humankind. And the human species and the planet Earth are one body. What happens to one part of the body happens to the whole body.

An event such as this reminds us of the impermanent nature of our lives. It helps us remember that what's most important is to love each other, to be there for each other, and to treasure each moment we have that we are alive. This is the best that we can do for those who have died: we can live in such a way that they continue, beautifully, in us.

Here in France and at our practice centers all over the world, our brothers and sisters will continue to chant for you, sending you the energy of peace, healing and protection. Our prayers are with you.

Thich Nhat Hanh

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The world
written by Trish Reece , April 18, 2011

Hi, reading your sorrow allows me to feel sorrow for the people of Japan, to think it is not over yet is scary. There are some terrible things happending in our world today, I wish to God that everyone would realise this is not one persons land it belongs to us all, a gift that we should be greatful for, to appreciate, how we and all living creatures were put on this earth. I don't understand why now we are so gready, and don't care, or help others. I'ts a very strange world today. I will be working on loving all and helping as I can. Love to everyone and especially the people suffering in our world today. LOVE, PEACE, AND BLESSINGS. Trish Reece

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A heartful prayer
written by Chris Kang , April 13, 2011

Dear Thay and friends in Japan,
Thank you so much for your mindful healing energy and compassionate prayer, Thay. And thank you Ellen for your sharings. Sometimes, I feel as if the world where I live has forgotten Japan, where disasters closer to home seem to take precedence. Your words have struck a chord in me and I'd just like to offer my energy and prayers from my daily practice to all in Japan, especially those who have died and those suffering right now. Sabbe satta sukhita hontu.

Chris

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Being Separate, Being One
written by Ellen Head , April 12, 2011

Dear Thay and brothers and sisters from Plum Village
I am so sorry that you could not come to Japan. But reading Thay's message it articulates just what I feel. Even though in the west of Japan where I live we are not so much affected, there is a deep sadness and longing to be more connected wtih those that are suffering. But I did not give up anything - I just started a new job and the campus is very cheerful. It is a strange situation. Superficially we are cheerful and normal, but we are anxious about radiation and the continuing shocks make us feel that life is not benign any more even though the cherry blossom is out. Then I think that practice is the only answer. I am not really good at practising on my own. I am glad that you are practicing for us, and for those in the north and those who have died, and please do it very much. with a branch of cherry blossom for you! Ellen

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