As I reflect upon the meaning of this character and all that has happened in this country in the last 9 months, along with all other Japanese people and expatriates, you would have to agree that it is a really fitting character.
Immediately after the disaster, the whole world saw the Japanese "bond" and "tie" to one another and strangers alike as people patiently lined up at convenience stores and supermarkets trying to buy essentials as everyone was "on the same boat". Makes you wonder if these acts could be achieved in other parts of the world. For those who are curious, it does seem like Japanese people do enjoy waiting in lines!
Even in my own life, I find that the bonds I have with some of the people most dreariest with me to have strengthened. The bonds strengthened were mostly due to the earthquake and for the concern, but most of it was due to ever changing factors in our lives and how people showed their support and love for me and I, in return for them. Family and friends are truly one of the most important aspects of anyone's life.
Upon further research, the kanji chosen every year is what best describes the last year. The man of the hour who decides this kanji is the head priest at Kyoto's Kiyomizu-Dera Temple.The Kiyomizu-Dera Buddhist Temple is located in the eastern part of Kyoto. Founded in 778, the Third Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu restored the current buildings in 1633. In this restoration, no nails were used. Instead, each piece are fitted together. Today, Kiyomizu-Dera is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
To find out more about Kyoto's Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, you can visit their website here. If you are ever visiting Kyoto, the Temple opens their doors at 6am and close at different times throughout the year. Admission to the Temple is 300yen for adults and 200yen for primary and junior high school students.
On a side note, for those who are curious, for 2010, the character chosen was 「署」'sho' and that translates to "hot". Yes, 2010 was a hot year in Tokyo!
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