Ongaeshi: Returning a Kindness
2026-10-02
Ongaeshi: Returning a Kindness

Ongaeshi: Returning a Kindness
 
Ongaeshi (恩返し) means returning a kindness or repaying a favor. When someone helps us, we may feel grateful and want to do something for them in return.
 
But ongaeshi is not simply a transaction. It does not mean keeping score or expecting an equal favor back. It is a way of showing that we remember someone’s kindness and value what they did for us.
 
Sometimes we can return kindness directly to the person who helped us. At other times, we may pass it on by helping someone else. The person who first showed us kindness may never know, but their generosity continues through our actions.
 
Ongaeshi reminds us that kindness can travel from one person to another. A small act of care may leave a lasting impression—and inspire someone to offer that same care to others.
 
In this way, gratitude becomes more than a feeling. It becomes something we do.
 
 
Disclaimer: I use AI as a tool to help create images and proofread my writing. However, the ideas, opinions, experiences, and messages in my posts are my own. AI does not generate my posts for me. It simply helps me present my own words and ideas more clearly.






Kenichi Uchikura
Founder & CEO

Pacific Software Publishing, Inc. (PSPINC)
Uchikura & Co., LLC.

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ABOUT THIS BLOG

I was born and raised in Japan and have spent most of my adult life in the United States. Through this blog, I share Japanese culture, language, expressions, and wisdom. My goal is not to say one culture is better, but to explore different perspectives and what we can learn from them.

Your comments are always welcome.

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