a lil' part of history

I had lunch at the Rex hotel yesterday at its Rooftop Garden. It was a good day to be eating outside with a nice breeze wafting by. It had a great view of the city, including the new Bitexco Financial Tower, which is now the tallest building with 68 floors, toppling Saigon Trade Center's 14-year reign as the tallest with 33 floors.

The Rex hotel has been recently renovated, but still represents a part of history, hosting the 'Five O'Clock Follies' and numerous war correspondents. The war seems a distant memory from the view. Yet in all the construction and newly developed or recently renovated buildings, one seems to stand out attesting to the past and in many cases, reality that is visible outside of District 1.

When my family returned for a visit the first time in 1997, remnants of the war and history were prevalent with constant reminders by individuals with missing limbs on the streets begging for money or cyclos crowding the streets. In its quest to attract and expand the tourism industry, the government has pushed much of this out of District 1, with the exception of the few cyclos available at tourist locations for a short trip around the block (similar to the carriage rides in Central Park in NYC). It's probably only a matter of time before they replace this building.

In a moment of surrealism, I had lunch with someone who just evacuated from the tragic events in Japan.   An event that is creating history and unfolding right before our eyes. In trying to follow the ongoing news, I have witnessed some of the narrow mindedness of individuals all over the world, specifically Americans, who have posted disparaging comments about the repercussions of past sins. That's like blaming all existing Americans for slavery and the events of 9/11. He recounted details of the initial earthquake and life days after. It is a true testament to the mettle of Japanese in their construction and infrastructure that has withstood such wrath from Mother Nature, as well as their patience and sense of order in how they have and are evacuating. You would never see such orderly lines in Vietnam or USA.

My thoughts and prayers go out to all those individuals in Japan and their families and friends. Having survived 9/11 and the aftermath, I still find myself sometimes wondering why I was spared and what purpose I am meant to serve in the big scheme of things.

Note: I am still trying to find a worthy organization to donate funds to help Japan. I have historically donated to the Red Cross for such tragedies; however, it seems as if only about 50% makes it to the actual recipients so if you have any suggestions, please shoot me a message.