http://www.k3.dion.ne.jp/~k-9mp/Allen%20Nelson.html

We have returned to Japan, the first time for me (Seres) as well as our daughter Finn Ojo.  Over and over we have been blessed with the kindness bestowed on us by the peace community.  The world has become smaller since arriving here, our people are your people, your people are our people.  All the same.

Our main reason for this journey was to celebrate the peacemaker, Allen Nelson.  Allen was a Vietnam War veteran who has been speaking of the importance of peace in Japan since 1996.  He too was very concerned about holding on to Article 9 as well as shutting down the American imperialistic military bases here.  This spring, he passed away, a casualty of the war he partook in 30 years earlier, succumbing to the effects of his Agent Orange exposure.

Being at his memorial was so beautiful.  Not only did people come to celebrate his life from throughout Japan, but his family and friends traveled from America. The ceremony was full of tears, life, and joy.  Such a blessed community.

While we are here we will continue to talk about peace and the importance of Japans Article 9, trying to continue the work that Allen so wholly believed in .  Peace to you.  Heiwa!

Filed under: Article 9 on June 29th, 2009