I've been reading manga/watching anime for around 6 years now. I have found that this has given me a greater appreciation of the Japanese culture than any history book or elementary school field trip to the asian art museum or international district ever has. I know many of the customs, superstitions, and jokes- even though I have never set foot in the country.
I feel like I have a deeper connection to Japan than I have to any other foreign nation.
Is is strange to say that I feel the devastation in Japan has affected me personally?
My heart is crushed by the suffering these people have endured.
God bless everyone in Japan.