17 YearsGood evening.When I got home and turned on the TV today, there were a lot of news programs saying that it's been 17 years since the Great Hanshin-Kobe Earthquake.It's been 17 years.If it were a human, it'd be the time when the most emotional maturing happens; the year when you think of your future and career, and become independent.Thnking of it that way, it's a long time..Since I was 3 when it happened, I don't clearly enough about the earthquake to be able to recount what happened that day.That's why what I'm writing here is a little confusing.But, please let me write.I don't want to forget. Really.The March 11th Tohoku Earthquake that's still fresh in my memory.That really brings up memories.When I think of writing about thistoo many things circle in my mind and I can't put it into words well.My chest tightens.I don't want to lose important people anymore.There's no end when I try to think of why it happened,or "I could've done this more, couldn't I?", or "If I was there..".But even if I grieve about the past, time only goes towards the future, so I have to walk alongside it. I believe this strongly.People become stronger from their pain.That's why the world will too! It will become stronger.What we now need is the power of belief. And also a sympathetic heart.If there are those that have been looking down since that day, I'd like them to raise their heads up even just a little.I won't tell you look up.Please, slowly get used to the brightness of the sun.It's difficult putting it into words, isn't it.I'm sorry for being unskilled.I will never forget.I hope that, somehow, everyone will be happy.Don't forget the smiles!!