What can I write? How can I express the beauty of what I've experienced and the memories that will haunt me forever until I return again? Japan is a country where I can feel the pride illuminate from every child and elder. When I first arrived I was struck with the humidity. You feel wet wherever you go. It really didn't bother me when I was standing in front of Osaka Castle, one of the landmarks that played a major role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century of the Azucho-Momoyama period. It didn't disturb me when I went to visit Himeji castle, the castle where we travelled back in time by trekking up 7 stories barefoot as the samurai once did. Nor did it phase me when I was bowing in front of Buddha at the Todaiji temple. And as someone who is new to the practice of Zen Buddhism, this was an experience I have not taken for granted. It was an experience I shall never forget.
I think the best part of discovering Japan was discovering myself. Have you ever fallen in love with a place? Falling in love with a place is so much more complex than falling in love with a human being. The people of Japan are polite and work with pride. Outwardly, there are smiles and "thank you's" that are lacking in the States. There is a sense of community and respect that I cherish.
This country is rich with history that is embraced instead of rewritten.
After just a few days, I understand why it is possible to live up to 100+ years in Japan. The food is fresh, the hearts are light and kind, and the architecture of the city and its transportation allows for walking 20,000+ steps a day seem as if it is the bare minimum.
I will be returning to Japan in the future.
No comments:
Post a Comment