10 things to learn from Japan

I got this forwarded in email after the earthquake and tsunami in northern Japan. If anyone has copyright problems please let me know.
I admire the way those who suffered stoically faced their grim reality. There is a lot to learn, especially those people who are far away and safe...

A fortnight after the disaster, strong aftershocks continued to rock the affected areas down till Tokyo, and help was yet to reach many people.


1. THE CALM

Not a single visual of chest-beating or wild grief. Sorrow itself has
been elevated.



2. THE DIGNITY

Disciplined queues for water and groceries. Not a rough word or a crude
gesture.



3. THE ABILITY

The incredible architects, for instance. Buildings swayed but didn’t fall.



4. THE GRACE

People bought only what they needed for the present, so everybody
could get something.



5. THE ORDER

No looting in shops. No honking and no overtaking on the roads. Just
understanding.



6. THE SACRIFICE

Fifty workers stayed back to pump sea water in the N-reactors. How
will they ever be repaid?



7. THE TENDERNESS

Restaurants cut prices. An unguarded ATM is left alone. The strong
cared for the weak.



8. THE TRAINING

The old and the children, everyone knew exactly what to do. And they
did just that.



9. THE MEDIA

They showed magnificent restraint in the bulletins. No
sensationalizing. Only calm reportage.



10. THE CONSCIENCE

When the power went off in a store, people put things back on the
shelves and left quietly.