water is life

One Sunday morning, Yohann and I went to the park across our apartment's complex to get our drinking water.  It was not so crowded anymore as it's late morning and as much as I'd like to go there early, it's still cold in the early morning and I would not risk Yohann getting cold.  During the winter, we haven't been here to get water but we buy instead.  I try to tell my self to save money and make the effort to do the 10-minute walk, not only I can save money but it is good exercise for me and and an energy buster for Yohann too.  Sadly (or not), laziness took over. 

So here we are now, patiently waiting for my turn to get water.  As I hold close my empty plastic water containers, I took a few pictures of the action.

       Old women filling their water containers.  Mostly, they have a trolley to carry all these bottles of water. 

Some bring bigger containers.  They would either have it latched on their bicycles or motorbikes. 

I have seen lots of joggers also who come with their cars, they would fill big containers up before or after they jog.

Owners of these containers bring their cars.  It could be that their building/s are quite far from this park or they are getting more than one refill.

One of the many things I like here in Korea is that the government provides better access to water.  This mineral water comes from the mountain and the government made water line for the residents to get water without having to go or hike the hills or mountains.  This way they enjoy what the nature provides and save at least $.90 for 2 liters/bottle.  Now if only other countries have this much water resources, there wont be people and animals dying of draught.  And if only other people make use of water wisely and conscientiously...  water is life after all.

eathquake and tsunami

March 11, 2011, the world stopped, stunned, shocked and devastated when the news broke of  what happened in Japan. An earthquake of 8.9 magnitude, the most hit the island nation.  So many lives were lost and more are still missing.  It was such a heartbreaking scene to see such a strong and beautiful nation to be suddenly all over the news, this time not of triumph, but of devastation.  The modern, bright and dynamic areas were replaced by damaged buildings, waste and there were mud everywhere.  Words are not enough to describe such occurence.  Especially the faces of people looking at the place where their homes used to be, faces of people expecting a family member to show up, faces of people trying to be strong listening to the reports that bodies of their kin are found, and faces of people trying to share whatever strength is left of them to others too. 

Despite this tragedy, I am personally impressed of the way Japanese remained dignified in so many ways.  Other countries, when or if faced in similar state would be in uncontrollable chaos.  There would be breaking in of stores and looting, fighting for food, water and other supply of ration.  However, Japanese stayed calm and collected which should be set as a perfect example for all of us. 

I believe that this tragedy has tested the strength of this small but ultimately strong country.  They may be facing serious damage for now, but without a doubt, renovation is already in the process.  Things may not be brought back like the way it was before the calamity, especially the lives that were lost, but definitely, Japan will rise again. Stronger.