‘There Is Only One Way to Be a True Human Being’

Takuji Yamashita wrote this letter to his parents in 1893, before leaving his small Japanese village for America at age 18. It was translated by Hisato Miki:

Note Left Behind to Wise and Sacred Parents, June 9, 1893.

This is not dream talk.

Disregarding my poor handwriting, I am putting down humble thoughts.

Although I am short in stature, I have two hands and two feet, all of my five senses, head on my shoulders and somewhat resemble a human body. Since I physically resemble a human being, I also wish to be a spiritual being.

However, there is only one way to be a true human being. One must be faithful to his ruler, be dutiful to his parents, follow respectfully older siblings, be affectionate to younger siblings, married couples should be faithful and respectful to each other, associate with good friends in sincerity and respect. One should do his duty to his country and family befitting his situation. If one is to do things at all, he should do it so he does not have to be shameful for his actions. From this time on I intend to keep these principles deeply in mind and adhere to them.

Even if some rulers do not act like good rulers, I shall act as a faithful servant. Even if parents do not act like parents should, I shall act as a child should. Even if others do not act like true human beings, I shall act as a human being. If a person heaps abuse on me, I will not hold a grudge against him until first of all I reflect. If my language or behavior is flawed, I shall immediately apologize and correct myself. If my language and behavior is clean, I will only try to reason with him. I will try to walk the path of honor.

I am dull-brained and do not resemble my parents or siblings. However, my aspiration to go to America is not based on self-interest only. I am thinking about our country and family and want to work for the public good.

I hope to have a harmonious family and a happy and pleasant life.

If I should not achieve my goal and perish in the foreign country, how much of a loss is it for my country? I should be resentful but I will only have regrets that I did not have enough wisdom.

My beloved family, please cooperate with each other and have harmonious relations. Even if things do not go as one hopes for, persevere and do not disturb family harmony. If a family is in harmony, it is harder than a rock.

Sincerely,

Son Takuji