More Thoughts

Sorry to report, but not a whole heck of a lot happened this weekend. My Kobe trip got canceled due to rain so I ended up just enjoying a weekend around Hirakata. Nothing major happened, did some karaoke action, went to a birthday party for a friend, picked up a kimono, all that fun stuff. It was actually really nice to relax for a weekend. That being said, I can't wait for Tokyo this weekend! I'm heading up with a friend for the first few days, and the meeting my family on Tuesday. I'm really excited to see them all, especially since it's been kind of difficult to keep in touch with the time difference. Moreover, this is probably the longest I've gone without seeing them all, so it will be great to finally see them. Plus, who doesn't love a hug from their parents? I also get to act as translator while they are here, and I love doing that, it's a great way to practice my Japanese.

So anyway I just wanted to comment quickly on comparing abroad experiences. A lot of my friends are in Europe and tell me about their experience often. Basically, it's the polar opposite of Japan: No rules, lots of traditional architecture, etc. Something I also noticed was in looking at photos, all my friends in Europe look really old, or more adult-like. Now I don't mean to be insulting in any way, shape or form, but I really feel like that would bog down my experience. Although there are moments in Japan where it feels like I'm living through High School 2.0, there is something so wonderfully innocent about Japan. For everyone who knows me, I'm basically a 12 year old trapped in a 21 year old's body, so I really enjoy this playful culture I live in. Granted, it is also very serious with school and work for the Japanese people, but there is definitely an overarching theme of innocence or at least a facade of some sort. I've said it once and I'll say it again, I wouldn't trade my time here for anything else in the world :-). I implore you to consider coming to Japan, there is just too much to love here.

Ok so with the trip to Tokyo coming up, it looks like I will not be back to post for a little while, unless I get a hold of a computer sometime in Tokyo. Hopefully I'll have some great stories for you all. To bide your time, go buy the new CD "Love vs. Money" by The-Dream. If you like R&B music, you'll love it. Ja matta