It seems insincere to write a blog post about something as catastrophic as the situation in Japan, and at first I ignored it on that basis. I am a mere blogger thousands of miles away - what could I possibly add to the discussion? But like everyone, I am wounded for their loss of life and property. It seems even more insincere at this point not to mention this horrendous tragedy, as though it doesn't matter. Thus, in my own insignificant way, I send my support to those who are suffering as best I can, with my thoughts and prayers.
Crisis reveals character, both of individuals, and of nations. Japan is in a crisis of epic proportions, but I am not surprised to see their national character emerging as calm, measured, and confident. If this crisis were occurring across most of the earth, we would be seeing rioting, looting, shootings, and other violent acts threatening to add to the chaos of the disaster itself. Japan is giving the world an awe inspiring display of national self-control, and it's an example that is both impressive and needed.
If a country in the midst of one of the greatest disasters in recorded history can peacefully pull itself together for the greater good, then surely we, as a species, should be able to find compromise on lesser crises without resorting to threats and violence.
I am wondering, if this were happening in the United States, would we be rising to the occasion this way? Recent history says no. Rioting, looting, shootings and fear accompany every disaster. Every natural occurrence seems to be an excuse to rage out of control, taking whatever we can get, whether it is right or not. Anarchy has become so rampant in disaster settings it is now perceived as normal and inevitable; out of the ordinary when it doesn't occur.
I think the world needs to take a lesson from the Japanese today. Their extraordinary response, even in the uncertainty, and their focus on solutions, has given us all a vision of another alternative. Recriminations will surely come, but it will be an ideological bloodbath, not a real one.
My heart and prayers go out to the people of Japan, and I sorrow for those who have lost everything, especially loved ones. I pray that their national character will continue to remain stoic and calm. They are showing the rest of the world the possiblities, and it gives me great hope.
I pray for my children that somehow, they will live in a world like that.
