If there's one resolution we should all make for 2017, it's to be more forgiving.

For this exemplary and tenable goal, we can thank former U.S. Ambassador to Japan Caroline Kennedy, who placed the theme of reconciliation at the heart of her address to the nation just prior to the end of her three-year tenure in Tokyo.

Despite some skepticism in the U.S. about whether she had the ability to fulfill the role of ambassador (including unfounded slurs by Donald Trump), Kennedy, the first-ever female U.S. ambassador to Japan, proved to be most suitable for the job. As a strong role model with star power, she was always destined to become a popular figure in Japan. Her appointment was so welcome that doors which would have been otherwise closed swung open with ease. Kennedy left a deep impression upon Japan and will long be remembered for her positive role here.