Then watched the news play out on Twitter and felt queasy. Had to step back, step away. It showed social media at its best and its worst. Yes, it’s incredible that we can see news being made, live, in real time, by people who are there, who are watching it, living it. But it also makes you realise how easily misinformation can be spread; how panic can be fuelled. Then, of course, there are the typical prats – who either don’t give a toss or who think it’s smart to poke fun. And then again there are the disaster junkies – who just revel in a drama; who emote all over the place and even get off on it all - the Diana brigade at their worst. Then there are those who are using this human tragedy for their own agenda. As my friend Frankie Sachs said, ‘It’s almost like they want to see the mushroom cloud.’ Actually, read her blog - it says it all much better than I can.
Anyhow. Frankie and another friend - Sessha Batto - have been doing incredible, ceaseless work trying to put out accurate information, trying to stop panic escalating, trying to instil balance. Then, as Frankie says, ‘Somehow just relaying info didn't feel like enough, and nobody else had one rolling, so we started a charity anthology project.’
If you are a writer and would like to contribute, they are taking submissions right now. Or maybe you could offer editing skills? Or marketing advice? Or maybe you could write a blog or put out a video or, well, anything? Even just retweet this post?
The website is here: New Sun Rising – Stories for Japan - do please take a look.
Another bunch of mates are involved with Authors for Japan. You can bid for all sorts – from signed books to help with your own writing. It's another great cause; another small way you can help. Check it out.
