The Japan Experience

I think the most terrifying thing in the world is stepping outside of my comfort zone. The thought of being vulnerable is something that is often seemingly a fate worse than death. I can say that coming to Japan was equivalent to taking a giant leap outside of my comfort zone. I can also say that I am tremendously grateful that I didn't hold back.

Japan has been one of the greatest eye-opening experiences of my life to date. It is hard for me to grasp everything I see and experience in one day. Sometimes, it seems to be going too fast. Other times, it doesn't go fast enough. Walking through the Japanese neighborhoods in the morning on the way to the Nakamiya Campus has often brought me to thinking of my friends and family back home. I think of those closest to me, and how so many of my friends have experienced the same great things that I am now experiencing. I think of how many of my closest friends grew up living around the area I now call home for four months. I think of you, Tomoya, and how you told me that you remember passing through the East Gate on the way to classes. And you, Megumi, and how you mentioned that I was taking pictures of some of your favorite locations at Kansai Gaikokugo Daigaku. And Fumiya san, I think of you and how you lived in Seminar House 3, my current building of residence, grew so close to my Okaasan and Otousan, rode your motorbike down the same narrow streets that I walk everyday to class, and made some of the same friends I am currently making.

To those I haven't yet mentioned, do not feel left out. I think of you all as well. I think of how you walked the same walkways between classroom buildings. I think of how you used the same computer room and same student lounge in the CIE building. I think of you when I pass the many restaurants and shops that line the streets of Hirakata-shi.

The Japan Experience continues to unfold before me. There is no possible way I can forget anyone while I continue on this journey. You're all fundamental in my growth here. You've laid the foundation for what I am now experiencing and learning. You've all enhanced my stay here.

I miss you all greatly, but I will return soon with so much to share.

[Be Courageous:

Courage uncovers strength,

grace reveals beauty,

time strips away the frivolous,

life layers on experience,

and you have become

magnificent.]

-No Limits But the Sky