A Reverberation of Kindness around the World | WPN World People News

What does a child, an editor, a carpenter, a fisherman and a student have in common? "Thank you, Taiwan" is their denominator. The victims of the 311 Earthquake in Japan last year put together, with the aid of the Interchange Association, Japan, a video that express their heart-felt gratitude to the prompt aid from the people of Taiwan, which amounted to more than US$243 million (90% from private donors).

Moving beyond the political conundrum and dissension, Taiwan's government and people had poured in tremendous efforts and financial support since the early days of the disaster. To the surprise of Japan and the world, the final tally count ranks Taiwan as the highest donor in terms of financial aid, as well as other visible support such as rescue and search teams, fund-raising events by artists and the general public, memorial events, letters and words of encouragement from students and people, medical supplies and construction aid.

But it is more than just the dollar amount, it is the workings of the heart. Japanese culture emphasizes on kizuna, which means the bond or relationship among people. There is an intricate symbiosis between Japan and Taiwan, and this is exhibited in areas such as cultural exchange, tourism, language appreciation and proliferation of popular culture. Like a brother in need, one reaches out to family members in times of crisis. Applying to a larger context, kizuna implies that the world is one, and all its people members of the same family.

Just as extending help is a reflection of character, how the recipient responds to aid is also a reflection of character. Appreciation and thankfulness makes the bond mutually building and constructive. From the aftermath of Japan's catastrophe, victims are lavish in articulating their heart: songs, letters, phone calls, blogs, etc. all point to the genuine initiatives of the good people of Taiwan. Gratitude, coming out from the shadows of despair and depression, shines even more brightly; gratitude, stemming from the hearts of the broken-hearted, warms even the coldest of hearts; gratitude, birthing from the valleys of destitution and barrenness, testifies to the good-will of the human race, the bond of mankind's fraternity.

Genki, a word that symbolizes energy and vitality. Genki, a word that spurs forth positive vibration and possibilities. The victims of the Earthquake give us their response to the question "how are you doing?": Taiwan, I am genki. Thank you. To those who offered their prayers, to those who gave their time, to those who dedicate themselves to helping, genki suffices.

A ride in Taipei metro gives view to the ubiquitous expression of the thanksgiving of the Japanese people. A four minute compilation of "thank you"s warms the heart of every viewer. Even on the main newspapers of Taiwan, a half page of advertisement is a token of the power of gratitude. As an ancient wise man says: It is more blessed to give than to receive. An act of kindness begets kindness. Thank you.