by Admin | November 25th, 2009
US President Obama’s visit Japan became something meaningful for those who are seeking a peaceful world in Japan. In his interview, he referred to his interest to visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki in the future. In addition to his speech in Prague expressing his strong commitment on nuclear détente, this statement was accepted with a huge applause by Japanese people, because this is what no US President has ever done. Many Japanese appreciated his sincere efforts toward peace in the world.
War is a violation of humanity and social welfare. War is wrong because it produces a lot of grief and hatred, among not only present generations, but also future generations on all both sides. Many Japanese think what Japan did during World War II was wrong. Victims of the atomic bomb blasts understand the situation at that time, and many think it was inevitable. However, after decades of suffering, now they realize the reason why they have to survive, and their responsibility for peace promotion. They tried to hide themselves from society and conceal their identity as victims. Now, they begin to tell their stories to help people understand how tragic war is. They have even become brave enough to show their tears while recounting their experiences. They do not ask for an apology or issue blame for dropping the atomic bombs; instead, they wish for peace in the world so that there will be no more people like them.
The reality is cruel, and sometimes people make difficult decisions. What people can do and what they should do are different. To make a responsible decision, they have to know its consequences. Therefore, it is good for the US President who, is legitimized with enormous power, to visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki to truly see the consequences of nuclear weapons. We cannot make his decision, but we can support him to make a good decision.
“Please rest peacefully; we shall never repeat the mistake.” These are the words engraved on the memorial for the atomic bomb victims in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. We should keep this oath for peace in our minds and reflect on our actions. With his unprecedented statements about the goal of nuclear disarmament, with US President Obama in office there may be a great opportunity to respond to those voices and bring peace into all war victims’ hearts.