As an ex-pat Kiwi I thank you so very much for your thoughts Joan, they are very touching.
I am too far away to give physical support to my family and countrymen directly effected by these quakes. It is touching tributes, such as yours, that help, just that little bit, to get us through.
Joan this is an awesome tribute. I saw it also on John's Facebook.
I think the biggest thing everyone here in New Zealand feels is that feeling of helplessness. I am so close yet so far away. It feels like everyone in New Zealand knows of someone badly affected in one way or other.