The Day After

March 12th

The sleepless night shifted into the morning
Aftershocks
My heart pounds.
I won't be able to sleep tonight again.

Elevator is not working.
I can't climb up and down stairs in a wheelchair.
I wait here for the earthquake to be over.

Ms. Grasshopper is in the living room.
She stayed over.
Yogurt and milk for breakfast.

TV is showing the earthquake damage.
Right now, at this moment people are suffering.
Many people.
Quick, hurry, rescue them please.

1:00 pm
Kochi came with takeout food and milk.
Ms. Grasshopper left.

Kochi and I lay down, exhausted.
Kochi hasn't slept, either.
It's little chilly.  It's much colder in the earthquake hit area.
We should not complain.

6:30 pm
Mari came.  Ms. Grasshopper was alread back.
Yuri came with her black back pack.
Kochi and I.  Five in all.
With the company I felt less anxious.

I got a short mail from my ex

"Hi Maria, I can't get through yet.  Is Ayako San still with you?  I hope you have water and food.  I will try again later.  Take care, Bobby."

Ex-husband is worrying about food and water.
Just like the old days.
I need to send him a mail to let him know I'm o.k.
I'm with the wonderful company and they fixed meals for me.

I want to send the words of gratitude.
Tonight.
I feel nostalgic.

Tomorrow, when I wake up Kochi will be here.
I'm happy and good night.

Poem by Maria Franki

Edited and translated by J. Ujiie

©2011