by Rebecca Stussman ’12

The response of the Japanese public to the earthquake and tsunami that devastated its northeast coast on March 11 has been nothing short of admirable. Amidst over 20,000 deaths and miles of flattened property, amidst an almost complete destruction of Japanese daily life, citizens remain boldfaced, optimistic and, most remarkably, organized. There is no widespread looting, panicked violence or even mild, frightened disobedience to relief staff and troops. Survivors of the devastating event have collected themselves into safe houses such as schools and patiently waited with their families for the aftermaths of this tragedy to unfold. Adults check water and air for radioactivity and look closely after children. Refugees take their fill to eat and share with others. In some cases, entire villages cling together and maintain somewhat of a routine, with teachers still assigning schoolwork for students and adults taking comfort in the friendly faces around them. The sense of productivity and of normality that the Japanese public has been able to maintain throughout the disaster is something that citizens of the United States and of the world should regard with esteem. The Japanese sense of unity, faith and order amidst this devastating event has helped to control the damage to the country as a whole and propel refugees into a slightly more bearable future.