Japan

Well, it’s been a very long time since I made a post here because my E Pluribus flag project has been very consuming. To find out about it check out www.epluribus.us.

But I am here today to share something that is right in line with this blog. I just received a a beautiful email from Marilyn Strong and Jerry Wennstrom that I would like to share. They point out with somber clarity the presence of grace under fire in a whole nation. Thank you Marilyn and Jerry and thank you to the Japanese people for showing us how to behave to each other.

Here it is:

 

10 things to learn from Japan:
1. THE CALM
Not a single visual of chest-beating or wild grief. Sorrow itself has been elevated.
2. THE DIGNITY
Disciplined queues for water and groceries. Not a rough word or a crude gesture.
3. THE ABILITY
The incredible architects, for instance. Buildings swayed but didn’t fall.
4. THE GRACE
People bought only what they needed for the present, so everybody could get something.
5. THE ORDER
No looting in shops. No honking and no overtaking on the roads. Just understanding.
6. THE SACRIFICE
Fifty workers stayed back to pump sea water in the N-reactors. How will they ever be repaid?
7. THE TENDERNESS
Restaurants cut prices. An unguarded ATM is left alone. The strong cared for the weak.
8. THE TRAINING
The old and the children, everyone knew exactly what to do. And they did just that.
9. THE MEDIA
They showed magnificent restraint in the bulletins. No silly reporters. Only calm reportage.
10. THE CONSCIENCE
When the power went off in a store, people put things back on the shelves and left quietly.

I would like to add one more thing to the list:
11. THE TRUTH
They are not hiding or soft peddling the full magnitude of the disaster.

Strength of one’s character is reflected in one’s behavior at the crucial moment.
Character of people is what makes the character of a nation.

Marilyn Strong and Jerry Wennstrom can be reached at:
PO 522 Clinton, Whidbey Island. WA. 98236
Phone: 360 341-3382
Email: soluna@whidbey.com
website: www.handsofalchemy.com
Parabola & Sentient Publications Book, Audiobook, Films & Art
“The Inspired Heart” & “In the Hands of Alchemy”