Yup, today marks two years since leaving Miami. Man, it feels like it's been forever since I left home... but, at the same time... it doesn't feel like it's been only 2 years in Japan... does that even make sense?
I think it mostly has to do with the fact that this year, 2010, is speeding by so quickly.
But, regardless... here I am... two years in Japan, and still enjoying my life here. That's the important part.
Yup... that IS the important part indeed... the fact that I still enjoy my life here in Japan.
Because... I know that this second year hasn't been quite the same as the first year.
The first year was all about trying to fit in, looking for and meeting new people... acquaintances... friends. I even had to find my own niche in Japan... seeing that Iwate wasn't quite for me. Coming into Tokai... I feel that familiar feeling I felt when I first came to Japan for my study abroad program in Kyoto. That feeling... it's hard to explain... but, it brought along a sense of comfort, belonging, renewal... I guess for lack of better words... Home. It's a feeling where you feel at ease and like this is where you're meant to be. Well, that feeling came back to me living in Tokai. And though I do still consider Miami my home and plan on returning... Tokai will always feel AND be my home as well.
Well, that was the first year... and this second year was much different. I guess a loss of that "honeymoon"-everything is good feeling. Cause in fact... everything wasn't exactly perfect. Since I found what I wanted... I now had to grow accustomed to my new surroundings and eliminate factors that didn't quite mesh well with what I wanted. This mostly included people that have caused me unnecessary annoyance and stress. I have realized something about the foreigners that come to Japan. Not to stereotype too much... but, I guess it can't be helped. Overall... most of the foreigners that come to Japan fit into this category that just doesn't fit my personality. Many may think and say that maybe it's me... I'm the one with the problem (which I, myself, have even said). But, I've actually discovered (even if others disagree) that it's definitely not me. I have been blessed with many friendships before coming to Japan... and those friendships have been maintained though the distance is grand. In fact... I've had many people come visit me and I've been able to share my part of Japan with them. So, seeing that the other foreigners that rub me the wrong way haven't had the same experience... I will conclude that it is them and not me... heh heh.
Anyway... before I dive too deeply into waters I've already long left behind... the basic point is that this second year (especially the past couple of months) have been about me eliminating certain factors that didn't quite fit in with my Japanese zen and peaceful lifestyle I've been trying to set up. So... though I've been a bit more reclusive this second year... I've made sure to keep all the parts I enjoy and rather than focus on the negative... I've strengthen my bonds and kept to the positive.
This is the same game plan I will strive for during my third year in Japan.
So, with a much needed summer break (mostly for an emotional and drama break) coming to an end... I am ready to continue my third year in Japan. I don't regret anything from my second year in Japan. I've always been the person to say that every experience... good or bad... help shape the person we are today. And, seeing that I like the person reflected in the mirror before me... I definitely can say I've enjoyed my second year as much as I enjoyed my first year in Japan.
That being said... I'm waiting to see what this third year has to offer!
2 comments:
Dude, I am so happy to hear how peaceful you are. Honestly, that is one thing I fear about moving to Japan. But just knowing that I have friends there will make the transition all the more bearable. I can't wait to see your zen ass again and go visit your dirty mistress Tokyo. lol! Being in your position, how many times have you wanted to drop everything and return to Miami? How severe was it?
Your bold move, as well as the amount of time you've spent over there really inspires me to achieve the same thing. I am happy to hear that you are at peace and you know who you are. ^_^ Don't change for anyone or anything.
Hmmm... I've wanted to return to Miami... but, to be honest... it's mostly been to visit only (kind of like a recharge of my batteries).
I think I can honestly say I haven't thought about returning home yet. I mean, the thought has crossed my mind... but, it's crossed my mind because I have to consider what to do once I return back home... and not because I've had it with Japan.
I'm glad I've been able to serve as a guinea pig for some of you guys... and hopefully my experiences are exactly the experiences you've been seeking and find once you get here again!
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