A Bowl of Ramen and a Job Well Done

A Simple Feat

When I woke up this morning, I looked out the window and saw a beautiful, sunny day. The outdoors was so inviting, but I made a promise to myself: today, I was going to start my spring cleaning.

With determination in my heart, I brewed a cup of coffee and sat down to enjoy it. After savoring that warm, comforting cup, I went straight to my study room. I knew there was a lot to sort through. I needed to get rid of old things I no longer used. Now, decluttering is not my strongest suit. Don't get me wrong, I love cleaning, and when I clean, I can't rest until everything is spotless. But there's something about getting rid of old things, especially things that carry memories.

I’m the sentimental type, and I can be a little superstitious, so certain items feel almost impossible to part with. I’m sure some of you can relate. But today, I told myself, "This time, it's different. I really need to do this." I was determined to make space for new things, new experiences, and new possibilities. And so I began.

It wasn’t easy. It took hours of hard work, carefully sorting through everything. But by the end of it, I felt a sense of accomplishment. The room was finally decluttered, organized, and breathing again. It wasn’t just about cleaning; it was about making room for a fresh start.

After all that effort, I knew I deserved a good bath. I was covered in dust from sorting through the old stuff, and I couldn’t wait to feel fresh again. As I soaked in the warm water, my stomach started to rumble. All that hard work had worked up an appetite, and I suddenly craved ramen.

So, I got ready and headed to a nearby ramen shop. When I walked in, I spotted the perfect bowl of Miso ramen: three pieces of chashu, some veggies, corn, and a perfectly boiled egg. "What more could I ask for?" I thought to myself.

I ordered the ramen and eagerly waited, and when the staff brought the big bowl to my table, I couldn’t help but smile. There it was, a steaming bowl of deliciousness, still fresh from the kitchen. The aroma filled the air, and the steam rose from the bowl like a promise of warmth and comfort.

I took my first bite. Oh, the noodles, the broth, the egg! Every slurp was a reward for all the work I had done today. It tasted even better than I’d imagined. “I deserve this,” I thought, smiling to myself. After such a productive day, enjoying this bowl of ramen felt like the perfect reward.

Doesn’t it feel great to treat yourself after a job well done? When you give your best to something, you deserve to indulge a little. For me, that bowl of ramen was more than just food. It was a celebration of my hard work and a reminder to enjoy the fruits of my labor.

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

Rainy Days and Mondays

Lost in the Rain, Found in the Journey

Today, as I was driving, a heavy downpour suddenly swept over me. The rain came down so fast and so thick that the road disappeared, and I could barely see ahead. In a moment of fear, I pulled over into a nearby parking lot, unsure of what to do next. Stranded in the storm, I sat there, staring out the window as the rain poured down in sheets. And just as I was lost in the rhythm of the storm, the song Fast Car by Tracy Chapman started playing on the radio. In that quiet moment, I thought, time really does fly fast.

It’s strange, isn’t it? One minute, you’re fresh out of university, bursting with dreams and hopes, and the next you’re here, reflecting on how much has changed. I think I finally understand that saying—when you don’t stop to appreciate what’s around you, time slips away, and before you know it, you realize how much has passed. I remember so clearly when my dream was to live and work in Manhattan, to be in the world of advertising or marketing, surrounded by the hustle and energy of the city. Yet, here I am, living in Japan. Life has a funny way of surprising you, doesn’t it?

Do you ever ask yourself if where you are is really where you want to be? I remember a conversation with someone I met when I first came to Japan. She told me to be careful with my choices, that time moves so fast, it tricks you. You think there’s always more time, but before you know it, the years slip by, and you find yourself wondering, where did it go?

In a way, I consider myself one of the lucky ones. Even though I didn’t end up in Manhattan working in advertising or marketing like I once dreamed, I found something even better. I discovered what I truly love, and I get to do it for a living. When I look back at the people I met when I first arrived here, the places I worked, and the moments shared with friends, colleagues, and special people in my life, I feel immense gratitude. They’ve all shaped who I am today, and I will forever cherish them.

As I thought about all those memories, a rush of emotions flooded over me, both sadness and joy. Sadness for the friends I no longer see as often, for those I haven’t spoken to in years. I wonder how they’re doing, where they are, what they’ve been through. But there’s joy too. Joy for the simple moments we shared, the spontaneous conversations, the laughter, and the meals together. Those moments, no matter how small they seemed at the time, are what make life so precious. I can’t help but feel like I must have done something good to deserve the people I’ve met along the way and the beautiful experiences that have filled my life.

As the rain slowed and the world outside became clearer, I couldn’t help but smile. The storm had passed, and so had a moment in time. The truth is, life will never be exactly how we imagined it when we were young, but maybe that’s the beauty of it. We can’t control everything, but we can choose to make the most of the journey, find joy in the unexpected, and appreciate the people who cross our paths, even if it’s only for a short while.

So, here’s to the moments that shape us, big and small. To the friends we hold close and the ones we lose touch with, the dreams that change, and the new ones that rise in their place. And most of all, to the life we’re living right now, even when we’re not sure what comes next. Because in the end, it’s these little pieces, these quiet, beautiful memories, that make the journey worth it.

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

A Melody of Memories

Songs, Smiles, and Mango Floats

When I woke up this morning, I was greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere. As I opened my curtain, the sunlight spilled in, and it felt like spring was finally here. The usual chill of the early morning had shifted to a cool, refreshing breeze. I could already feel the change in the air, and I knew it was going to be a good day.

Today, I had promised my students from my previous school that I would attend an event at a park on top of a mountain. They would be performing there: one would be playing the guitar and singing, others would be in a brass band, and some would be dancing. I was excited to see them perform, and I couldn't wait to experience it all.

I got up, prepared for the day, and decided to leave early. I thought I’d stop by a convenience store for a coffee and a quick bite before heading straight to the park. When I arrived, I was pleasantly surprised to find many tents and food trucks set up, like a small festival with flea markets. The sight of the food trucks made my heart race with excitement.

Upon entering, I was warmly greeted by my students. Their faces lit up when they saw me, and it felt so good to be there. Since I had arrived early, I decided to wander around. To my delight, I found many of my students selling their old things. When they spotted me, their eyes sparkled, and they eagerly called me over, trying to convince me to buy what they were selling. I couldn’t resist their enthusiasm, so I ended up buying something from each of them. It was so much fun, shopping from these cute little sellers. They were so charming and persuasive!

After I had wandered around a bit, it was time for the long-awaited performance. There she was, my beautiful sixth grader, ready to perform. As she began playing the guitar, I was in awe, she was incredibly talented! And when she started singing, I could feel the goosebumps rise on my arms. I was so proud to be there, witnessing her shine. I couldn't help but think that someday when she becomes a famous artist, I’ll look back on this moment and remember her as the girl who loved playing the guitar and singing her heart out.

She performed her grandpa’s favorite song, one she adored as well. I remembered a conversation we’d had about her dreams for the future. She had told me that she wanted to become a musician, not just for fame, but because she wanted to write songs that would make people happy. Seeing her perform today, I truly believe in her dream. I can see her blossoming into a successful musician because she has the passion and love for what she does.

After her heartwarming performance, I felt a bit thirsty, so I wandered over to check out the food trucks again. To my delight, I spotted one selling mango float. How perfect was that for the moment? I treated myself to one, savoring every sip as I basked in the warmth of the day, feeling so content and grateful for the beautiful experience.

As I sat there, sipping my mango float and watching the event unfold, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. The day had been full of surprises, joy, and proud moments. Seeing my students shine and knowing I played a part in their journey made everything feel so meaningful. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the park, and I realized that sometimes, the simplest days are the ones that leave the biggest impact. I left the park with a heart full of happiness, knowing I had witnessed something truly special and knowing that no matter where life takes my students, I’ll always be cheering them on, just as I did today.

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

Gratitude in Every Goodbye

A Thank You From The Heart

Yesterday was my last day in the town where I spent three incredible years working. Those years were nothing short of wonderful, and as I gave my farewell speech during lunch, I could see the kids starting to cry. I tried so hard not to let my own emotions show. I didn’t want them to feel too lonely, so I offered them comforting words, telling them it’s okay, we’ll still see each other in the future. But as I said this, my heart felt like it was being crushed. Looking at their faces, I knew how much I would miss them.

It’s moments like these that remind me of how lucky I am. I’m not just fortunate to do what I love, but to have found a family in the people I work with. The connection I share with these kids and my colleagues has made every single day feel less like “work” and more like a privilege. When you’re surrounded by people who inspire you, support you, and make you feel at home, it’s not just about doing a job, it’s about being part of something meaningful, something bigger than yourself.

Later that afternoon, after the kids had gone home, the school surprised me with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. It was such a thoughtful gesture, and at that moment, I felt incredibly appreciated. My colleagues gathered together, and they asked me to say a few words. As I stood there, sharing my farewell with them, I was reminded again of how much these people have meant to me. The relationships we’ve built here go far beyond work, they’re more like family.

I’m really going to miss them. I know we’ll all give our best wherever we end up this April, but it’s hard not to feel that sense of loss for the people who have shaped who I am over the past years.

As I thought about it, I found myself asking: How do we say thank you to the people who have helped shape us into who we are? And then, another thought crossed my mind: Is it enough to just keep it in your heart, or should we express it, somehow?

I feel incredibly grateful to have shared this time with such remarkable people and to have experienced a job that never felt like work. It was more like living my passion every single day, surrounded by a family who made it all the more special.

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

Craving With A Twist

Satisfying My Street Food Cravings

Lately, I’ve had this irresistible craving for Carnitas. It all started when I saw an episode of a street food series on Netflix, and suddenly, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. But since I can’t exactly hop on a plane to America anytime soon, I wondered how I could make something similar at home to satisfy this craving.

I decided to take a look at some Filipino dishes that might resemble Carnitas. The Philippines has a rich history of Spanish influence, and you’d be surprised how many Filipino dishes share similarities with Latin flavors. So there I was, searching high and low for the perfect recipe to hit that Carnitas craving. Then, out of nowhere, Carnitas Adobo popped up in my search results! It was like the universe knew exactly what I needed.

Excited, I dove into the recipe, reading through the steps carefully, making sure I found one that suited my taste. Once I settled on the perfect one, I headed out to get the ingredients. Grocery shopping is one of those little pleasures I genuinely enjoy. There’s something about walking through the aisles, checking off my list, and stumbling upon new ingredients that always make it feel like a mini adventure.

After collecting everything I needed, it was time to head home and get to work. I couldn’t wait to start cooking!

Back in the kitchen, I unpacked everything, spices, the meat, and all the ingredients, and as soon as I started cooking, the entire kitchen was filled with an amazing aroma. My stomach rumbled in excitement! As the pot started to bubble and boil, I knew I was on the right track. The key to this dish is slow cooking, allowing the flavors to really sink into the meat, so I had to be patient.

As I waited for the meat to get tender, I found myself wishing, almost fervently, that this would turn out perfectly. After about an hour and a half of simmering, it was time to pull apart the meat. It was a fun, almost therapeutic process, gently shredding the tender strands of meat, feeling like I was creating something special.

Next, I preheated the oven. This was the step that would transform the adobo into something resembling Carnitas. As I placed the shredded meat into the oven, I couldn’t help but feel a little nervous. What if it didn’t turn out? This was my first time making Carnitas, after all. With my fingers crossed, I waited, heart pounding.

Finally, the moment arrived. I opened the oven, and there it was perfectly browned, crispy meat. How does it taste? I thought. Taking a fork, I took my first bite. And to my relief and delight, it was amazing. This was definitely one to check off my bucket list!

There’s something so fulfilling about craving a dish and being able to recreate it in your own kitchen. It’s those little victories, those small moments of achievement, that make life truly beautiful. Now, I can’t wait to see what dish I’ll try next. Do you have a recipe on your bucket list? I’d love to hear about it!

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

Closing the Classroom Door

Lessons Learned and Shared

Today marks my last day at the school where I’ve spent the past three years, a place that has become more than just a workplace. The people here have truly become like family to me, and the students? They’re family too. Walking into school this morning, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. It’s hard to wrap my head around the fact that the journey is ending, but as I reflect on everything that’s happened, I know that these three years have shaped me just as much as I’ve hopefully shaped my students.

The bond we’ve built has been one of trust, laughter, and a lot of learning, on both sides. I’ve had students come to me not only for academic help but also to share their personal struggles. They’ve trusted me with their crushes, family problems, and peer pressures. It’s such an honor to be that person they turn to, and I’ve always tried my best to offer them more than just advice on schoolwork. I tell them that life is beautiful, but it’s never perfect. Some days feel like everything’s falling into place, while others make it seem like the world is crashing down. But that’s what makes life so incredible, the highs and lows, the lessons in both. I remind them that without the bad days, they might never truly appreciate the good ones.

There are times when it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but I encourage them to remember that nothing stays the same forever. Life is always changing, and change is inevitable. If you’re struggling now, it won’t last forever. And when you’re riding high, savor that moment, because it’s a gift. Be grateful for everything that’s gotten you there, and cherish it for as long as it lasts.

The hardest part of teaching has often been trying to remind my students that even when things seem difficult when they feel like giving up, they can make it through. Student life isn’t always easy, but I always tell them to believe in themselves, to try their best, and to never quit. Even when it’s tough, they have the strength to keep going. I’ve tried to be a source of support, even when the lessons went beyond the textbook.

As I say goodbye today, I carry these lessons with me as much as I hope they carry them into their futures. The memories we’ve made together will forever be a part of me. It’s bittersweet to leave, but I’m so grateful for these three years of growth, connection, and joy.

Thank you to my students, my colleagues, and everyone who made these years so meaningful. You’ve all taught me just as much as I’ve hopefully taught you. And though I’m leaving this chapter behind, I know the lessons we shared will remain with us all.

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

Just Another Day

Finding Peace in the Little Moments

I was going about my day as usual, running errands, and finishing up work, and just when I thought I was done, I decided to pause for a moment and reflect on what had happened. This week has been full of goodbyes, and as I suspected, it’s been emotional. Sometimes, the hardest part about getting close to your students is knowing that when it’s time to move on, someone’s going to feel the sting of separation. And today, three of my boys cried after I gave my final speech to the class and handed them their handwritten messages. I was surprised. It’s not typical for Japanese boys, especially, to show such emotion. But in that moment, I thought, “I’m sad, but seeing them like this shows I’ve done something good for them. I’m lucky to have had them as my students.”

After such an emotional day, I headed home, still with a few things to do for the house and myself. After all, tomorrow is another day. But by the time I wrapped everything up, I felt good, like I’d taken care of everything I needed to. I decided to go for an outdoor walk before taking a bath, and as I stepped outside, I told myself, “Ah, this is nice. I’m finally following through on the goal I set for myself yesterday.”

The cool evening breeze greeted me as I stepped outside. The sky was clear, and it was a beautiful night. As I walked, I thought, “If only every day could be this smooth. If I finish my tasks early, I’ll have more time for myself.” And right then, I decided that’s going to be my mini-goal from now on: to keep finding a balance between work and relaxation.

After my relaxing bath, I got ready for bed. But just as I was about to close my eyes, I felt a headache coming on. Then I realized, it’s hay fever season here. As I scratched my nose, I couldn’t help but laugh to myself and think, “Oh well, you can’t have everything!”

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

Blooming with Purpose

 

Setting Goals for the New Season

Today, I decided it was time to set some goals for this year. I know, it might seem a little late, but I’ve been thinking a lot about what truly matters to me. This time, I’m focusing on setting realistic goals. Goals that I can achieve without overwhelming myself. So, I took some time this afternoon to just sit and reflect on what I want my year to look like. In just a few weeks, I’ll be stepping into a new phase of my life, and I want to begin this chapter with purpose and intention.

Lately, I’ve been so caught up in the busyness of life that I’ve neglected something really important: myself. It’s so easy to forget about self-care when there’s always something to do, right? But I’m realizing that if I don’t make time for myself, I’m not truly living my best life. So this spring, I’m making self-care a priority.

Now, I know, self-care is a word we hear a lot these days, but what does it really mean? For me, it’s about nurturing my well-being in every way possible. It’s not just about bubble baths and face masks, though those are nice too. It’s about taking care of my mind, body, and spirit in a way that feels authentic and balanced. This means focusing on my health, inside and out.

Starting this spring, I’m committing to a health and fitness goal. I’m not just aiming for a “good body” or external results. I want to feel good on the inside too. It’s about feeling energized, strong, and mentally at peace. Maybe I’ll start with a morning meditation, some light workouts, or a peaceful walk in the fresh air before winding down at night. Whatever it is, I’m determined to make it a consistent part of my routine.

Another goal I’ve set for myself is to work on my Japanese reading every day. I’m not looking for instant fluency, but I’m committed to making progress little by little. I believe that consistency is key, so even a small amount of reading each day will help me improve. And finally, I have a bigger dream that’s been in my heart for a while now: I want to write a book. A book that captures the everyday struggles, little victories, and those quiet moments that make life truly beautiful. I want it to resonate with anyone who’s ever had to face challenges but also found a way to keep moving forward.

This year, I’m embracing growth, self-love, and the courage to go after my dreams. I hope this inspires you to set your own goals, no matter how big or small. It’s never too late to start, and spring is the perfect time to bloom into something new. Let’s make this season of renewal one of purpose, joy, and progress.

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

What Makes A Perfect Sunday

Finding Bliss in the Little Things

Today, when I woke up, my first instinct was to rush to the window. I was hoping the weather would be just as beautiful as I’d imagined, a perfect sunny day. But, as I peered outside, I remembered the forecast from yesterday: Rain showers were on their way. I couldn’t help but laugh at myself for being so hopeful. The day was off to its usual start, with plenty of chores to tick off. But today, I made a promise to myself: no matter what, I’d take it easy. The week ahead is bound to be emotional, and just thinking about it already brings a little sadness. So, I knew I had to make today count, my perfect, relaxing Sunday- to recharge before the chaos.

I started by organizing my things. My work stuff piled up as usual, but I knew that today, I had to get everything done so I could enjoy the rest of my time. Next, I made my bed, and since the warmth of spring was already in the air, I decided to change to my spring bedding. There’s something about fresh sheets that just makes the world feel right. The scent of them, so clean and crisp, wraps me in comfort. It’s one of my little weekend rituals, just that simple pleasure of slipping into a freshly made bed, a soft, welcoming embrace after a long week.

With the bed all set, I dove into the laundry. Yes, it was one of those chores that just had to be done, but there’s something about a tidy home that always puts me in a good mood. By the time I finished up my morning tasks, I was pleasantly surprised to hear my family suggest we go out for yakiniku. The timing couldn’t have been better, as my stomach was already rumbling in agreement!

So, we headed out. Soon, we were all gathered around the grill, happily cooking the most tender cuts of meat and dipping them into that savory yakiniku sauce. My favorite part, though? Pairing my grilled meat with an array of side dishes. When my meat was ready, I wrapped it up with rice, spicy miso, and kimchi in a piece of nori. And oh, that first bite, the flavors exploded in my mouth, a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and a little tang. It felt like a moment of pure bliss, one of those simple joys that make everything else fade away.

Full and content, it was time to head home. As we walked back, I couldn’t help but smile; my chores were all done, the house was spotless, and my laundry was neatly folded. All that was left was to prepare for the week ahead. But before I did that, there was one more thing I had to do.

With a few quiet hours ahead of me, I made myself a cup of tea, grabbed my favorite book, and settled into my favorite reading chair. The rain had started, a soft patter against the window, and I thought, what could be more perfect on a rainy day than a warm cup of tea and a good book?

I was lost in the pages, turning them with delight, savoring every word. The story pulled me in, and for a while, it felt like the world outside didn’t exist. It was just me and the book, completely wrapped up in the emotions of the story. Time seemed to slow down, and for that little while, nothing else mattered.

When I finally finished my reading, I closed the book with a smile. That was it. That was my perfect Sunday. The kind of day that leaves you feeling light, content, and ready to take on whatever comes next.

Do you ever have a day like that? A perfect Sunday that makes you feel at peace, ready to face the week ahead? What does your perfect Sunday look like?

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

The Soundtrack of Our Lives

How Music Connects Us All

Today, on my way to work, I popped into a convenience store, and as soon as I stepped in, a familiar song began to play. As I searched for some bread to go with my coffee, I couldn’t help but smile as the tune filled the air. It was “Missing You” by Diana Ross. That song immediately took me back in time, to when I was a kid. I remember my aunt playing it on repeat after her breakup. I must have been about eight years old, and even then, I could feel the raw emotion she poured into that song. It’s amazing how music can hold onto those moments and take us back to them so vividly.

Even now, every time I hear that song, it’s like a time machine. I remember playing it when I was heartbroken, many years ago, and the song still carries the same weight, the same emotion. That’s the magic of music, it has this incredible ability to bring you back to specific moments in time, evoking emotions as if no time has passed at all.

Do you know that feeling? When you hear a song, and suddenly, it feels like everything comes rushing back; the people, the places, the emotions you once felt. Music has this way of tapping into our hearts and minds, pulling us into the moments we’ve lived through, no matter how long ago they were. It is so powerful that it connects us in ways words alone never could. It doesn’t matter where you’re from, what you have, or what your story is, music is everywhere quietly waiting to be heard. It drifts through busy streets and quiet corners, weaving itself into the rhythm of our days. It doesn’t judge or divide; it simply reaches out, reminding us that we are all connected by the same invisible thread of sound.

Each of us carries a soundtrack of our lives. Songs that play when we fall in love, when our hearts break, in moments of triumph, and in times of struggle. These melodies stay with us, shaping how we remember and how we feel. In every beat and lyric, music becomes part of who we are, echoing the emotions that words sometimes fail to say.

For me, there are certain songs that instantly remind me of my dad because they were his favorites. When I hear them, it’s like his presence fills the room, and I can almost hear his voice. Then, there are songs from my childhood that bring me back to the people and places that shaped who I am today. And just like me, I’m sure you have those songs, too. The ones that remind you of your own journey, the ones that helped you heal, or the ones that made you fall in love with life all over again.

Isn't it amazing how music can make us feel so much, sometimes even without saying a word? It’s like it speaks directly to our souls, and in those moments, we know we’re not alone. We all share this beautiful, emotional, and powerful experience. I believe in the magic of music. It has this extraordinary way of making us feel understood, even in our most isolated moments. The beauty that it doesn’t require anything more than an open heart and a willingness to listen.

Music truly does impact our lives most profoundly. It’s a reflection of who we are, a soundtrack that marks every chapter of our journey. And no matter where we are in life, there’s always a song that will make us feel at home. So the next time a familiar song plays, pause for a moment and listen closely. You might just hear your own story humming in between the notes.

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×

My Kanji Quest

One Character at a time

Today, I realized something important: I need to get serious about my Kanji reading. And as soon as that thought hit me, I couldn’t stop my brain from spiraling. Suddenly, I had this deep revelation: My current struggle with learning Japanese is probably exactly what my kids go through when they’re learning English. So, I paused and thought, “How do we learn a second language? And how do we do it effectively?”

I couldn’t help but reflect on these questions and think about my students. The truth is, language learning wasn’t too difficult for me. In the Philippines, English is one of the official languages, alongside Filipino. I don’t even remember learning English because it was just… everywhere. My kindergarten days? Everything was taught in English. The books? English. If you went to the grocery store? English. Heck, even my mom would sometimes say, “Can you hand me the ‘thingamajig’?” and I’d know exactly what she meant.

But in Japan, it’s a different story. While kids do study English in school, it’s just one subject out of many, and outside the classroom, it’s almost all Japanese all the time. At home, my Filipino family would use English to make sure we’d be prepared when school started. It’s just how we did it, and it worked.

But what does this have to do with my struggle with Kanji, you ask? Absolutely nothing, except that my brain sometimes likes to wander to the most random places when I need to procrastinate. I mean, really procrastinate. If I’m being honest, I’m not lazy. I actually love learning. Studying and writing notes? Oh, that was my thing in school. But why, oh why, is learning Kanji so… well, mind-boggling?

The Japanese language is a maze, and Kanji is the wicked labyrinth we all have to get through. Even when counting objects, you need to use different words depending on the object: flat things, long things, round things, insects - I mean, does the list ever end? And Kanji readings? Forget about it. Just when I think I’ve got one right, I find out there’s a whole new reading I didn’t even know existed.

But hey, at least with speaking, I’m confident that I can understand and speak about 80-85% of the language. Sounds pretty good, right? So you might ask, “Why bother studying more?” Well, here’s the thing: I’ve got my sights set on the Japan Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). This test has five levels, with N5 being the easiest and N1 being the hardest (and trust me, N1 is no joke). Even native Japanese people struggle to pass N1, so yeah, it’s not exactly a walk in the park.

But here’s the catch: I’m determined to pass it. I’m going all the way to N1. Sure, it’s going to be a crazy journey, but I’m ready for it. I want to live here like a local, not just as someone who knows how to order sushi and say “thank you” (although, let’s be honest, those are also key skills). I want to open doors to new opportunities, and learning the language like a true native is the way to do it. In Japan, fluently bilingual people aren’t as common as you’d think. Sure, a lot of people know some English, but being truly fluent in both English and Japanese is rare. And that’s exactly what I want to be. It’ll take time and effort, but I know I can do it.

So, to pass N1, I need to learn 2,000 Kanji and 10,000 words. Yes, you read that right. 2,000 Kanji. 10,000 words. Are you already dizzy? It’s okay; I am, too. But, like they say, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” So, here I go- step one: Kanji.

I’m committed to learning, no matter what it takes. With determination in my heart (and maybe a good cup of tea), I’ll make it happen. It’s not going to be easy, and there will be days when I’ll want to throw in the towel. But I know I’m doing this for more than just a test; it’s for the chance to truly immerse myself in the culture, to connect with people on a deeper level, and to be a part of this incredible country in a way that only language can allow.

Every Kanji character I learn brings me a little closer to my goal. Every new word, every reading, and every little breakthrough is a reminder that progress is progress, no matter how small. There will be challenges, of course, but with determination and a dash of humor, I’ll tackle each one as it comes.

So, help me keep my fingers crossed. I’m determined to hit this goal in less than two years, and I hope you’ll be here to cheer me on. Maybe you’re on your own journey, learning something new, too. Whatever it is, let’s keep each other motivated. Let’s make this a fun ride. Until then, let’s study, because after all, as they say in Japan, “One step forward is still progress,” and I’ll take as many steps as it takes to reach the finish line!

Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×Enable GingerCannot connect to Ginger Check your internet connection
or reload the browserDisable in this text fieldEditEdit in GingerEdit in Ginger×