Lately, photos of empty shelves at Japanese grocery stores have been flashing across TV screens. It gives the impression that stores have no supplies coming.
Last week, I called my relative Irene Woo in Tokyo to see if she’s OK.
“I am,” she said.
“You have food?” I asked.
“Yes,” she replied.
She explained that food was available. There was a shortage of water for the first two days. Prices have not increased. In fact, some items have actually been cheaper since the earthquake and tsunami.
I asked her, “Tell me what food you bought today?”
“I bought strawberries. They’re quite good, not expensive,” she responded. “I bought oranges, $7. Before the disaster, they would be $10.”
“You have electricity?” I asked.
“Yes,” she answered.
“You get around with the subway?” I asked.
“
Only half of them are running,” she said. However, she said she got around town without any problems.
Although people living in the disaster areas have suffered tremendously, my cousin is doing fine in Tokyo. ♦