In Nagaoka

I arrived in Nagaoka this afternoon and got checked in to my hotel ... sitting here now.

As I descended the train platform and rounded the corner, I was greeted once again by Ryokan-san, in the form of a statue. I paused in front of him, bowed respectfully, and headed to my hotel.

This feels like home.

As I was checking out of my hotel in Tokyo, I mentioned my destination, and a girl at the desk overheard and offered to chat ... I was curious about the situation here following the earthquake. She just returned from the area and, coincidentally, has a friend in Bunsui. She said temporary shelters have been set up here, though I have not seen them yet.

What's next? Hmm ... I need a plan.

On the way up I sat next to a Japanese businesswoman who spoke little English, but our attempts at communication turned to my reason for being here. The easiest explanation was simply to pull out a bilingual collection of Ryokan poetry ... although she wasn't familiar with him, she was impressed enough that I left my copy with her.

That was my only copy here ... so what shall I do? Just let them bubble up from my heart.

Often I am distressed
by the world's sadness.
And just as often I am at a loss
as to what I should do.
-Ryokan