Shukuko Sasaki points to a photo of the Kamaishi fishing port. Her husband, a fisherman, and her parents, were killed by the tsunami. She remembers them every day by kneeling before the family shrine containing photos of the deceased and offerings to bring them comfort in the afterlife.
Following an ancient Japanese custom, Sasaki folds origami paper cranes in remembrance of her deceased family members. In Japan, cranes are considered holy animals. This custom is believed to bring good luck. Sasaki wishes for “comfort and peace.”