Sunday, Bloody Sunday

Environmental sustainability has come a long way.

Back in 1986 - on the anniversary of his 60th jubilee, the former Emperor of Japan wanted to show the world that his country was concerned about the environment - so it was determined that he would head to the northern part of the main island and plant a lot of trees. I believe it was in Sendai.

Unfortunately, this area was in a far-off, out of the way part of the country with little road access, so in order for the Emperor's cavalcade to get to the site where the trees were to be planted, his staff had a roadway built from the main road built cutting down a slew of trees - and then they paved it.

Then when it was determined that they would need seating for the people who wanted to view the Emperor's tree planting, more surrounding trees were cut down and wooden tiered seating was erected.

Because it was now turning into such a big event, the media definitely wanted in, so more trees were cut down surrounding the site to accommodate the expected media crush.

And that's how several hundred trees were sacrificed so the Emperor could plant his five saplings.

Somewhere listening to the Lorax,
Andrew Joseph
Today’s title is by U2. It’s a song about senseless killing, but Sunday, Bloody Sunday, is a play on words (to me) for Sendai, Bloody Sendai and the killing of the trees. I know... My mind works in mysterious ways. LISTEN
PS – I am unsure if this tale is true. I was told it many a time while in Japan, but it may have just been an urban legend. But, it is likely that the Emperor’s entourage, in an effort to placate the Emperor and the media, may have crapped all over the environment – stepping in ni-ban (number 2), while looking out for ichi-ban (number one).
PPS – The Lorax – that’s a Dr. Seus book... And if you’ve never read it, you should. Despite the nonsensical words, the message remains true enough.