I believe that Michael Hoffman's May 22 article, "Extreme nationalism may emerge from the rubble of the quake," reiterates, in its own way, the unique character of Japan. For me, the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami seemed to remind the world of this country's character, which has always existed but somehow got obscured amid Japan's myriad offerings.
All religions tend to speak to the same virtues—honesty, integrity and selfless service for those in need—although we may not necessarily put them in the garb of Islam, Christianity or Hinduism. It is the essence of these virtues that is so thoroughly ingrained in the very DNA of the Japanese people, thus setting this nation apart. But we shouldn't let our imaginations go too far.
This nation will not lean to an extremist nationalism to rebuild. It already has a very sublime yet powerful sense of selfless service to its people that has stood the test of time. Nevertheless, kudos for the article, as it gives us another thought-provoking moment about this amazing land. Long Live Japan.
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The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.
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