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John Sato with his thank you cards.
A veteran who took four buses to join an anti-racism march in Auckland after the Christchurch mosque attacks last year says he is touched and moved by the greeting cards received from abroad.
John Sato’s mission to get to the march made headlines around the world, after the story about him went viral.
John Sato negotiated four buses to get to the anti-hate rally after the Christchurch terror attack. The images of him being helped at the end of his journey touched Kiwi’s hearts.
RNZ recently received US cards for the 96-year-old man and delivered them to his home in Auckland.
A card from Mary Wong from California read: “Thank you for showing me that there is still goodness, compassion and dignity in the world … Thank you for being such a good person. Please know that you are thought of with respect and honor.” .
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* A 95-year-old veteran who participated in an anti-racism demonstration says his family taught him the importance of love.
* Jacinda Ardern praises the efforts of a 95-year veteran in the aftermath of the Christchurch attacks.
* Veteran, 95, takes several buses to be on the march against racism
Another card from Nazrin, who did not want his full name to be used, read: “I want to thank you with all my heart for being a great example to the world by showing love, kindness and true strength that reflects your character. I pray to Allah Almighty continue to shower you in love and blessings. “
There was also a card from Wong wishing him a happy birthday as Sato turns 97 in early January.
JACINDA ARDERN / INSTAGRAM
Jacinda Ardern and veteran John Sato.
Sato said the publicity was never his intention and that he was thankful for the cards.
“Thank you for your very, very kind thoughts. I am truly blessed that you have come into my life too, even if it is from a distance, you are still there,” he said.
“There are many, many people. They think the same as all of us. We care about each other. We respect and love each other and may it always be so … bless you all. Thank you. My love to all of you.”
Sato, who was born to a Scottish mother and a Japanese father, said he joined the march against racism in Aotea Square because he was aware of racism and the different religious beliefs growing in Western Australia.
John Sato negotiated four buses to get to the anti-hate rally after the Christchurch terror attack. The images of him being helped at the end of his journey touched Kiwi’s hearts.
He said that people should be more aware of racism and be more understanding. He said he would love to visit a mosque in Pakuranga, East Auckland, one day.
“As for me, we are all people who live in one world, so why do we go like this? We are all brothers and sisters in a way. We don’t all have to agree. A family doesn’t.” Not everyone agrees. “
