208 Country of Courtesy

“Country of Courtesy”

Courtesy is ingrained in the national spirit of Japan
In the form of gratitude, deference, sympathy,
Modesty, and consideration.
Our hearts respect others first; this is the custom of 和 (wa),
Meaning “harmony” and “Japanese style”

After WWII, a great flood of Western culture,
Which is much less polite,
Influenced a number of young people in Japan.
They say it is ‘cool’ rather than bothersome.
Meanwhile, the word ‘individualism’ has gained in popularity
And now we disregard the proud ways of our fathers.

It seems like the virtue of Japan has been lost.

However, during the hardship of the Tōhoku Earthquake (2011),
The victims’ displays of solidarity were reported all over the world.
People were astonished by what they saw.
What is commonplace in Japan is not common in other countries.
The courteous hearts that respect others first
Had not been lost after all.

Japan is a country of courtesy and hospitality.
We must never lose sight of these universal values.