Japan's Beacon of Hope Stands Tall as a Prime Focus of Recovery

Apr 22, 2011
Maggie Harries

Tree of Hope - Rikuzentakata, Japan - Brian Walker - CNN (Blog)

The miraculous survival of a solitary pine tree offers cherished hope in embattled Rikuzentakata as residents struggle to forge ahead.

Winston Churchill's advice in the darkest days of World War II was "Never, never give in." No clearer example of this exists than the recent discovery of a sole pine tree in the midst of thick debris in Rikuzentakata, Japan.

This small pine tree possesses miraculous tenacity, and due to this, has mysteriously withstood torture as the sole survivor in a forest of approximately 70,000 trees. Only one tree stands as all the remainder lay in debris flattened by the powerful tsunami of March 11, 2011.

Triumphantly surviving this frightful battle against a gigantic tsunami, it simply stands. It's puzzling, but this living pine tree stands as proof. The picture of it is hugely inspiring to Japanese residents. After witnessing this horrendous devastation, these heartsick people are now bolstered by viewing this champion which has endured, and hopefully will flourish once again.

It's been slightly more than a month since this tragic event whose strength staggered the imagination of the world and left stunned survivors. The discovery of miracles throughout parts of Japan has stirred hope. This small pine came to life from many trees planted along the shore some 300 years ago by villagers as a shelter from the winds of frequent Pacific storms. Now, the tree stands alone as a testament that life continues in spite of massive destruction throughout Japan.

The City of Rikuzentakata

This emblem of resilience ignites hope, even as its roots are ravaged by dangerous chemicals and other adverse substances. Residents are fighting to save this pillar of hope with its trunk scars and the tearing of some lower branches. On a positive note, 40 feet up, the unyielding tree is striving to exhibit strength by holding onto the upper level pine needles and cones. As it fights for survival, watchful residents gaze with cautious optimistic hearts and eyes hoping for complete recovery.

Hope is the unmistakable vibrant lever this stricken nation presently has in force. Each Japanese citizen is essential in the united attempt to enliven the uneasy strength quotient so that the cord cannot be broken. Their prayer is that it can provide the adequate motivation to arm them with courage to envision this yearning and deep desire within Japanese hearts.

This tree serves as the key to hold the door of optimism ajar for vibrant possibilities. Through a positive unwavering effort, a daily dose of hope can be sent straight into this grieving nation with energetic power enabling a peak of resurgence to rebuild the destroyed nation.

To the depth of their hearts and souls, Japan strongly feels the possibility that it is worthwhile, that recovery is achievable for the future to be filled with beautiful possibility. Japan, may a blessing let you see the fulfillment of your hope.