Essence of Christmas

"Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love." - Lao Tzu

We are in that special season again when everything is in full swing – parties, shopping, old friends’ get together – uncanny as it may seem for some, even the unselfishness in everyone is radiating. 

It was a random post that got my attention one afternoon this week. It is about an old man trying to buy a pair of shoes for his grandson but he doesn't have enough to cover the purchase. What happened next took me unawares.  Someone among those people staring offered to shoulder the payment instead. That is to say a wonderful person - full of the milk of human kindness. And so the child was in seventh heaven – a merry Christmas indeed. 

I feel like people are kinder and more accepting this time of the year. I hope every day is Christmas so we would bring out the goodness in ourselves. Giving is not only on material things but also those not seen by the naked eyes. I am in no position to dictate what is essential for us this Christmas, but whatever it is, I am sure that happiness for everyone is what we seek to achieve. Merry Christmas!

Nugget of Wisdom

“The greatest healing therapy is friendship and love.” - Hubert H. Humphrey

Do you find it odd when old friends contact you out of the blue? Well for me, no. Because this moment at the very least, you get a blast from the past. Last week, I got the chance to talk with an old friend and it did bring back memories.

We weren’t close in college but we talked and hung out. It was after the car accident that took away someone dear to him that we began to really connect. Then it seemed like the sky was falling down on him after a streak of bad luck – a rather unsettling experience. After graduation, we went on with our lives and I think we kind of lost touch along the way.

It has been nine years since we last talked and I did not hesitate to ask how he has kept strong with all that has happened to him.

I heard a deep breath and then came these words. “I am not strong but that’s what we do as adults, Jerry. We suck it up and move on. You fought with your girlfriend. Talk, understand, listen, apologize, and move on. You’re diagnosed with cancer. You have the right to be depressed but fight like hell to survive, and move on. A loved one died. Take your time to mourn, connect with friends for support, and then move on.” His voiced cracked and I heard a sob on the other end but he continued. “Bad things happen, but you know what, you have to continue living.”

My heart melted. I wanted to say a lot but I couldn’t collect my thoughts and I found myself gasping for words. I said ‘Thank you’ in however modest way and then just let the silence speak. 

 

         *old pictures

Life can turn a dime.

“We are all equal in the fact that we are all different. We are all the same in the fact that we will never be the same.”

I found out a few days ago that one of my childhood friends's father, passed away. It has been a while since we last talked and a lot of things have changed. We’ve known each other since we were kids – grew up in the same neighborhood, were in the same class for eight years and took the same major in university.  

I was at school when I got the unfortunate news and the first thing I thought was to send her my condolences and embrace. I had been meaning to call her after that but I put it on hold. Don’t think of me unduly improper for not contacting her right away. It is because I knew that when one has so much else to think about, it is easy not to give matters a great deal of attention.   

I did send a brief message a few days after– nothing dramatic or over the top. At some point during the conversation, she seemed not beside herself with grief but I knew deep down inside she wanted to bare her soul.  But then I realized that grief looks different on all of us.  

She’s a strong woman and I am sure she wants to project that to everyone. I don’t suppose the five stages of grief; denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance, can happen in the blink of an eye. But I do know she’s going to come around. Life can turn a dime.

Mind over matter

"When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” ― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

I may not be as adventurous but I am always down to trying new things. So when one of the teachers asked me to run the marathon with the children and act as a support for the last runner, I didn’t have second thoughts. These kids have been preparing for this event for a long time and I have seen them sweat and pour their energy to finish the course.  

I really didn’t know if I could make it. But the whole time while waiting for our turn, I was thinking what would happen if I ran out of breath and pass out before reaching the finish line – except for the sprinting and dashing around school, I don’t have experience in marathon nor have prepared for it. I didn’t want to embarrass myself. Nonetheless, I took my chances. The teachers were all swamped so I got to lend a hand. 

Fortunately, I didn’t faint. But I knew my body was working double time to compensate whatever was lacking in my system. For some time I couldn’t feel my legs, so I sat with the kids cheering and just trying to realx. Looking at them, they have the features of fragility but they are actually hearty. They are fit as a flea. I thought, “I have to do this more often.” LOL. Before I knew it, my breathing was back to normal and my legs were up and well. 

I realized how powerful our brain could be. No matter how hard things seem to appear when we think we could get through it – we could get through it really.

Love Eat Travel

“When we love, we always strive to become better than we are. When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.” ― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist.

I didn’t know that one single message could change all. It was the same date last year when our paths crossed. Together or just chatting; we have made fun moments and I am excited to hit the road, pig out, and just talk to you more. 

I have nothing really emotional or tear-jerking message to say because no words can define what I am feeling for you. Though, I want to thank you for coming to my life. You have no idea how you inspire me in many ways. True to Coelho’s words, I try to be a better version of myself. Most of all, you listen and understand me; not that it’s possible always because I know that you have priorities, but you do. And I am very grateful for all your effort and sacrifices. 

You need to follow your dreams and I do too but I believe we have dreams together. We don’t know what the future will bring us but remember I am here to support you. Hand in hand we can make this work. Cheers to more happy days.

Toyooka in 24 hours

 |Japan Adventure|

“In life, it’s not where you go, it’s who you travel with” –  Charles Schulz

I started my brief journey for this long weekend in Konotorinosato park. Amazed by the wonders of the place and the wading birds, I walked leisurely – feeling nature and just taking my time. The cool breeze and the leaves in their impressive hues of red and yellow only mean that autumn is in the air. 

Kouno-yu hot spring in Kinosakionsen was my next stop. I took my time here as well so I literally had to run to catch the train back to Toyooka. It was really thrilling and exciting to be dashing and all that but I thought I was going to die. wahahahah! Grilled meat for dinner and a lot of airline safety videos for a relaxing time added more fun to the night. 

With not a minute to waste, I headed straight to Izushi Castle the next day since it is a 30- minute bus ride - walked around, took a few shots and made an offering. The stupid traveler I was, it took me a while to locate a soba house which was one of the reasons why I headed there. On the home stretch now, I had my coffee time in ヒグラシ珈琲 along Stork Avenue. That culminated my Toyooka autumn trip.

Okinawa Trip – Day 4

Japan Adventure 

“The best things in life are the people you love, the places you’ve been and the memories you’ve made along the way.”

It was our last day in this beautiful island of Okinawa. Wanting to maximize the remaining minutes in Naha, we woke up early and head out to a nearby shrine. After staying for a few minutes, we left for the city beach. The place was so beautiful that we stopped filming. We just had to enjoy that moment.

We went straight to the airport, grabbed something to eat and boarded the plane. This was a worthwhile, fast-paced adventure. We got to really visit a lot of places regardless of the distance, taste a myriad of dishes, hop to various accommodation styles and, learn things that only travelling can teach. For a token, I got myself a fridge magnet. Honestly, the whole experience was the token itself.

Sure did make lasting memories in this place. 

Okinawa Trip - Day 3

 |Japan Adventure | 

“Are you sure it’s okay for us not to know how to swim?” This was my question before we head off to the kayaking and diving site on our third day in Okinawa.

Today I conquered my fear. I grew up in the mountains and had never had the chance to learn how to swim. We had breakfast to make sure our energy is enough for the day’s adventure. Energized and feeling hot, we took the bus to the meeting place.

After a brief kayaking lesson, we made our way to the river - paddling, balancing, laughing and, learning. Team work and gut feeling made us able to go down and up the river. The instructor wasn’t just teaching us but also introducing the living creatures that aren’t found in other areas; a learning experience indeed. 

Our second activity was diving and we had to drive a few miles for the next location. I was anxious but eager when we were gearing up for the dive. Although it was a challenge for me even from the beginning since the instructions were all in Japanese, I was still all ears. Our guide made sure that I fully understand all, since it is imperative that we know what to do underwater.

Having learned the techniques and precautions, we descended below the water surface. I couldn’t think straight and I was about to panic. I signaled no and my instructor gestured me to relax. I paused . . . after, I followed them. We were lead to a site where the corals are visibly seen and the fishes swimming before our eyes. At that moment, I realized how wonderful it was to be in this adventure. I was so lost that my worries were replaced with excitement and wanting to see more. It was like a movie.

Though, the vast ocean appears scary, being in there brought out a surreal feeling. When chances arise, I would definitely want to do it as often as possible. We bid goodbye and walked to the bus stop.

We decided to have a quick meal at a highly recommended ramen shop in the area. Before I knew it, I was gulping down the last piece of noodle from my bowl. No wonder everyone is talking about it – affordable and absolutely delicious. Definitely worth checking out.

The sun was setting when we reached Shuri Castle. At this time of the day, the castle stands mighty and sharp. Apparently, their way of living in Okinawa during the early days was different from the main island. Heading out, we were directed to a corner where we got to see the panoramic view of the surrounding villages. It was a fine feeling indeed to be standing up there like that – all mixture of history, culture, and the summer breeze. 

 

Okinawa Trip - Day 1 and 2

 |Japan Adventure | 


“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.”

We arrived at the airport as dusk fell. Aboard the Yui line monorail, we headed straight to Kokusaidori. People filled the place making the night alive and going. Shops lined up along the street offer everything from food to local clothing. After a heavy meal at a Shabu-shabu shop, we hopped into a cab and off to our accommodation.

We started early on our second day. Our destination was Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. The two-hour bus ride was worthwhile after we were welcomed by the majestic view of the ocean. Before going in, we snacked on a special onigiri  while marveling at the sight before us. We exited the aquarium about two hours later.

Our next stop?  NakijinCastle. We took a rest at the entrance to prepare for the 30-minute walk around the ruins. A world heritage site, indeed this is a place worth visiting. The walk down and the fact that there weren’t a lot of people made us appreciate more its peacefulness and beauty. Before getting on the bus to Naha, we had a quick meal at the shops by the bus stop. With the sun still up, we reached our destination a few hours later. We had a bowl of ramen and, chicken after.

Two days full of memories and not a time wasted in exploring this top destination.

Toyooka with Me

 |Japan Adventure | 

Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore. – Andre Gide

It has been three months since I arrived in Toyooka city. I could still remember how a lady helped me find my apartment; the first night when I slept without futon and blanket; the discovery of shops around my place. It was like a roller coaster on my first week in this new town. Now, I am all settled and ready to discover its beauty and what it can offer.  

Work was my main reason why I moved south. My job; however, didn’t stop me from having fun and traveling. Although I only wandered around, I did check a few hot spots in the area.

My real Toyooka trip started last week. I got to discover the relaxing onsens in Kinosaki and the mysterious Gembudo Caves. It’s the surreal feeling that kept me wondering and wanting to see more of this place. I know there are a lot this place has to offer and I am more than excited to experience them all. Besides, I have the future ahead to tour around this rich city.  

True to Andre Gide’s words, we only get to experience authentic culture in a different place.

Healing Words

Words indeed have the power to heal and create an impact that can change someone forever.

I woke up early on a Monday ready to teach my students and face a busy week. I started my first class full of joy and enthusiasm; encouraging them to wake up and be as energetic as I am since that was the last week of the school term. My energy was still at its peak when I went to my 6th class for the day. To my surprise, everyone was lively and ready for the final lesson.

During the discussion, I asked questions related to their stay in school. There was this student who had been in my class three times and the first thing I thought was to ask him about the classes he had with me. He answered, “The other teacher is better.” I didn’t know whether it was a joke or not. Either, the class went totally silent that a drop of a pin could be heard inside the classroom. I wasn’t prepared for such a remark but I carried on with a merry laugh since I couldn’t think of anything else to move past that situation.

After work, I went to my room crushed. I was in deep thought after climbing to bed and I berated myself for what I did or did not do for the student to think of me. I always give my best in class and why did I even ask that question, I asked myself. I was in that state when a roommate, a foreign national, asked me to help him with his homework. I didn't answer right away because I was lost in thought. I finally realized the situation when I saw him beside my bed trying to get my attention. I tried to figure out the answer to his question but I couldn’t get my brain to work. At that moment, he asked what was bugging me. I hesitated but since I knew that we couldn’t move on unless I told him, I narrated what happened. After he said in a low and affirming tone, “Never mind, you are a good teacher. You are smart, I know because you teach me like my real teacher.”

These words might be in their simplest meaning but they moved me and I have used these to keep myself strong and dedicated. Moreover, we don’t get to hear these kinds of words every day. Although I’m not the best, someone among those people I have shared my knowledge with, noticed, and appreciated what I do.

Years have passed since those encounters but I still take the “words” from my student and my roommate as motivation. Also, I have learned to be always ready and to accept anything thrown at me; be it a good or a bad remark. I know that through accepting and learning from experience, I become a better version of myself. I am still teaching, and I intend to stay in this profession with a light heart and an open mind.

Nara | Kyoto | Osaka |Trip

| Japan Adventure | 

"Fill your life with adventures not things. Have stories to share not stuff to show."

I have always wanted to visit these places; well, the 47 prefectures actually. And I hope there would be more opportunities to make this happen. Though my trip was brief, I learned a lot that only travelling could teach. I may not remember all the temples and shrines I’ve taken pictures of nor the onsen I had bathe in, for sure I would not forget the experience I had on this trip. 

Three top destinations in two days. Sounds crazy huh? I know. I am not done with these places yet since there are still a lot to know and explore. Definitely another Nara – Kyoto – Osaka adventure in the future.

*March 3-6, 2017

A Letter to my School

Hello everyone,

It has been eight months of fun teaching and exciting experience here and I wish I had more days to work, talk and play with you all.

To the students, thank you so much for studying and spending time with me. Live your life while you’re still young but study hard and do your best to make your dreams come true. Listen to your teachers because they care about you and want you to succeed.  

Moreover, I want to extend my deepest thanks to all teachers and staff for helping me always and understanding my poor Japanese. I admire your passion and dedication to your work. Amazing indeed.

Lastly, this is my first school as a teacher in Japan so I will never forget everyone. Thank you again. It has been a wonderful experience teaching and working with you all. See you!

Jerry :)

Mata ne!

February 9, 2017 – Wednesday
Year 1 - Day 149

Goodbye indeed is one of the saddest words. Today, I bid farewell to my school and emotions were everywhere. I was all good the whole time until one student came rushing after class to hand me a letter. She was crying while telling me that she's sad - then I couldn't get a grip on myself after that; even until I left the gate . . . 2 hours later.

I woke up a bit early today. Did my usual routine and went to work. Carrying my simple gifts for the teachers and staff in my school, I hurried to the locker room hoping no one would see me with my bags. Teacher meeting started and the next thing I knew, I was giving my speech to the members of the faculty. I was in awe that the English teachers prepared something for me. Wow!

This day was no different from the other days as far as classes are concerned. Only, I had to say my last words to each of them. There were instances in each class where a student or two would come forward with teary eyes and say their goodbyes. You have no idea what I was feeling every time. Hours passed and time to part ways. I was really overwhelmed with emotions when the teachers and staff came out to give me a rousing send-off. I was going down the stairs when I realized I was crying. Why?

I looked back and said my final thanks. Hopped in the taxi waiting by the gate and just let the emotions come out. My time in this school has come to an end.

I had a wonderful experience teaching and working in my first school in Japan. Everything was new and challenging. I know I wasn’t at my best but everyone was so understanding and helpful especially the English teachers. If I were to choose a school, I would definitely go back – better, livelier and more confident. Until we meet again.

(excerpt from my school journal)

Trip down memory lane

東京大学

"It's like I'm having a blast from the past."