I Killed the King With My Lies

“Man developed nuclear weapons.

We have to question the human heart.

People can decide to abandon them.

I believe we can abolish nuclear weapons.”

-Miyoko Matsubara, Hiroshima atomic bomb survivor

I received the sad news that Mrs. Miyoko Matsubara passed away on February 10th, 2018.  I met  her in 2010 through Koko Tanimoto-Kondo.  They were childhood friends because Koko’s father, Rev. Tanimoto, took care of many children who were injured by the atomic bomb. 

Mrs. Matsubara was 12 years old when the atomic bomb destroyed Hiroshima.  Her story details the hard life during and after the war and the passion she derived from living through those years.  The atomic bomb left her severely burned with keloid scars covering most of the body.  She experienced discrimination because of her appearance.  In 1953 she was selected to be part of the Hiroshima Maidens program which made it possible for her to have corrective and cosmetic surgeries. 

After Mrs. Matsubara dedicated her life to peace activism and helping other victims of war cope with the aftermath.  She raised her elder brother’s three young children when he and his wife passed away. 

My memories of the afternoon I spent with Mrs. Matsubara will be that she was always affable.  Her spirit instantly brightened the room.  She had suffered a stroke a couple of years prior but made it a priority to practice speaking English in the mirror so she didn’t lose her motor skills.  She spoke to me in perfect English. 

That afternoon was my only time with Mrs. Matsubara.  I still remember all the details vividly because she left a permanent impression.  She always had this glow about her.  I feel lucky to have the opportunity to call her my friend.