Sharing The Sacred Gift
“The Issei and Nisei had sound values and rich stories. They made extraordinary sacrifices, survived difficult times and have earned our respect. These, combined, is their sacred gift to the Sansei. The question for us is: What do we, the Sansei, do with this sacred gift?” — Donn Ariyoshi
Donn Ariyoshi
Special to The Hawai‘i Herald
I grew up living with three generations in our household and have fond memories of my grandparents. In elementary school, I attended Fort Gakuen, a Japanese language school, and continued learning Japanese at ‘Iolani School until graduating in 1979.
After our community came together and saved the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i, I served as the chair of the Board of Governors and, thereafter, as a member of the Board of Directors.
I remember visiting the JCCH Historical Gallery and always stopping to view the 12 pillars at the entrance. The character values inscribed on those 12 pillars guided our Issei and Nisei in their lives. At some time in my life, they were taught to me.
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Source: Hawaii Herald
