3/11

I was in 7th grade during the 3/11 earthquake, and we were in the computer lab when the floor began to shake. At first, most of us ignored the movement since earthquakes are fairly common. However, within a minute one of my classmates was sliding under her desk, and the rest of us were quick to follow suit. As the shaking got stronger, our fear and tension increased; this was unlike anything we had experienced before. It seemed to go on forever, and every time we thought it was weakening, it started up again, causing pencils and posters to fall to the floor. By this time the headmaster had made an announcement over the speakers warning everyone to stay under their desks until the shaking seized. Eventually, this moment came, and we all headed outside so siblings could get together and our transportation home could be arranged. Once safely at home, my family and I thought the worst of it was over. The news proved otherwise; with each update, the number of deaths and injuries throughout Japan - especially in the Tohoku region - continued to climb. And then there was the meltdown at the nuclear power plant. Due to radiation threats from the accident, embassy families were evacuated in the next week to the US. I was looking forward to seeing friends and family in CA, however my eagerness dropped as I was told that my mom would have to stay behind and work. I was scared for her safety and also for the responsibility that I would have to take on in her presence. Overall, the evacuation greatly impacted my character and role in my family. But the effect that the 3/11 disaster had on Japan's society was infinitely greater, so much so that even today, 4 years later, the country is still recovering.