A Response to 'Soft Lines: Illustrating Empathy' -- Hiroka

 When I saw the picture of a woman hugging a woman in a hijab, I felt that we should live together kindly, even if we have different religions or backgrounds. The message, “This is your home and you should have been safe here,” made me feel sad but also hopeful. Everyone should feel safe in their home country.

In New Zealand, people often smile and say “hi” to me. That makes me feel welcome. I think New Zealand is a safe country, and this exhibition reminded me that kindness is very important.

I also learned that humans are just one part of the world. We are not more important than others. Ruby Jones’ illustrations are simple but powerful. They tell us that we are special and stronger than we think.

My favorite words were, “All of this is for you.” I like it because it gives me confidence and power.

Comments

  1. NozomiMarch 4, 2026 at 2:49 PM

    I agree with you because I also received much kindness here.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. HirokaMarch 5, 2026 at 5:16 PM

      Thank you! I feel the same way. The kindness here makes me feel very welcome.

      Delete
  2. yunaMarch 5, 2026 at 12:18 AM

    I strongly agree with you! it really doesn't matter having different religions or backgrounds. we should be kind to everyone.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. HirokaMarch 5, 2026 at 5:16 PM

      I agree with you too! Everyone has different backgrounds, but kindness can connect us all.

      Delete
  3. Misaki NakayamaMarch 5, 2026 at 1:09 AM

    I think so too! New Zealand people are friendly because they say ”hi” when passing each other. It describes kindness. That's wonderful culture!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. HirokaMarch 5, 2026 at 5:17 PM

      That's true! I also noticed people say “hi” when passing each other. It really makes the atmosphere warm and friendly.

      Delete
  4. Maria OkadaMarch 5, 2026 at 2:03 PM

    I agree with you! I also receive some confidence and power here.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. HirokaMarch 5, 2026 at 5:17 PM

      I’m glad you feel that way too! This environment really gives us confidence and positive energy.

      Delete
  5. RyosukeMarch 5, 2026 at 2:43 PM

    Even on the bus, everyone says “Thank you,” which made me think it's such a nice city!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. HirokaMarch 5, 2026 at 5:18 PM

      I noticed that too! Saying “thank you” on the bus is a small thing, but it shows how kind the people are.

      Delete
  6. Mayu SaitoMarch 5, 2026 at 5:18 PM

    I also thought New Zealanders are very kind!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Shuta ITAMIMarch 5, 2026 at 5:31 PM

    I like your insight that "In New Zealand, people often smile and say “hi” to me. That makes me feel welcome".
    I want to be a person who can say hi first.

    ReplyDelete
  8. David WoodfieldMarch 5, 2026 at 5:38 PM

    Thanks for sharing, Hiroka. One of my favourite expressions is along the lines of "You are loved more tan you will know." I agree with this wholeheartedly because one of my fundamental beliefs is "God is love." David :-)

    ReplyDelete
  9. ZOU QingyangMarch 5, 2026 at 5:43 PM

    great point: We are no more important than others

    ReplyDelete
  10. Tomoka SonoMarch 7, 2026 at 11:49 PM

    yesss!! i feel welcome when Kiwis say 'hi' to me!!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Saho OnoMarch 8, 2026 at 6:06 PM

    I agree that people in NZ often smile and say Hi on the street. I want to bring this custom to Japan!

    ReplyDelete

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