-Prayers for a departed soul - 16 Dec., 1995
This foundation means a house was here. Flowers and fruits are offerings for departed
souls. Not a rare view here in Kobe. "We're sorry we couldn't rescue you."
Many people were trapped in the debris of their fallen homes.... Family members were there
and were trying to rescue them. Due to the horrible traffic congestion, many rescue
persons were unable to get to the victims with jacks and lifting equipment. Some victims
were consumed by fire while their families stood by unable to help them... What a terrible
tragedy... Regrets for not helping them. But we can not regret enough... Too many homes
were destroyed and we were delayed, Everybody did their best, But it was not enough.
Humans are just too weak compared to Mother Nature.
PS: In 1998, still you can find flowers like this photo at Kobe.
Past 3 or 4 years? We feel it was just like yesterday.
© Daisuke Tomiyasu