No horror film can match the news from Japan this week: the devastating earthquake, the deadly tsunami, and the unfolding nuclear crisis.

The loss of life and enormous suffering are heart wrenching, but people around the world have also marveled at the discipline with which ordinary Japanese have dealt with the disaster.

TV news reports show people patiently waiting in long lines to buy food and water, or to make a call at a public phone booth. We see people sitting or lying quietly in temporary shelters, many without adequate water, food, or blankets.