It just hit me

This is what I see in my mind when I think of Japan.  

One week ago, my world was pretty much perfect.

Then, earthquakes.  Aftershocks.  Possible Nuclear Meltdown.

My world was shaken up, literally!  My little happy bubble filled with rainbows and pink ponies was busted!  Reality came crashing down on me.

And the realization that my world is changed forever just hit me.

I was too caught up in my own fear to realize the depth and extent of death and destruction that occurred last Friday.  I was too worried about protecting my own family and preparing for what might happen next that I neglected to see the pain and suffering of my gracious host nation.

But now that the fog has lifted, and I'm totally, utterly aware of the seriousness of the situation.  My Japanese friends are living day-to-day, without knowing what lies ahead.  Their families are scared and worried about running out of food.  They live in darkness because of rolling blackouts.  Schools are closed.  People are traumatized.

And, yet, somehow I missed all of that.

So, to you, my Japanese friends, let me tell you how sorry I am for your loss.  I'm so sorry for the uncertainty that lies ahead.  I'm so sorry for all the grief and sorrow you felt as you watched your countrymen perish in the tsunami.  I'm so sorry for only thinking of myself when y'all are the ones in need.