Last December, I read Alberto Rios’ poem “When Giving Is All We Have” because I wanted to read a poem about hope, despite all the challenges we face individually and collectively. Rios’ simple words ...

Naruhito’s poem read: “Sekai tono/ Ikikigatakaru/ Yo ha Tsuzuki/ Mado Hiraku Hi wo/ Hitoe ni Negau” (As our contacts with the world/ Remain difficult/ I earnestly hope for a day/ When the ...