Living in the Orient

Being in such a different place has made me want to do a bit of writing. Comparing of life styles perhaps. Giving myself a new perspective on life in general. Japan is like nothing I've ever seen. Ever even experienced. Is it possible to miss a home that does not even compare to this? I think I miss things being familiar to me, but in the last few days have come to realize that I do not miss the American way of life. Don't get me wrong, I am one of the proudest Americans you will ever find. I'm a military wife that is very proud of her country, where I came from is important to me. Maybe I just needed a break from American society. However, I do not miss the attitude of today's American citizen.

This being said, here are a few things that I have learned so far about the Japanese culture.Japanese people are friendly. And you think it's almost weird at first, like they are pretending to be nice on the outside. It's very genuine in fact. I have never found nicer people. They are honestly glad to meet you, talk to you, and help you in any way. They bow their head to greet you in a welcome. Always smiling as if their lives are content in every aspect. The word respect comes to mind. Respect is a huge part of their daily life. This is good for my soul. To know that there are really people that care for others and are happy to just live.

Japan is the cleanest place I've ever been. Sidewalks and parking lots are perfectly swept without a trace of dust. Grass is mowed and hedges clipped as if someone did it with the precision of a laser. Playgrounds are raked to be perfectly smooth after children use them. Floors shine like they have been freshly waxed and carpet is amazingly spotless. These people work. And they work hard. But the thing that amazes me the most is that they are still smiling while they do it and when they are done. Happy to do their job well and earn the wage they are given. But something tells me that they would work that hard even if they did not get payed.Coming from a culture where people would rater collect welfare instead of contributing to society. Would rather take than give. This has been an interesting perspective for me.

There is no ugliness in Japan. None. It's like they don't want you to be subjected to anything that is not attractive. Construction sites have pictures of flowers and puppies on their barriers. Things are painted bright colors. Japanese screens cover unsightly computer cords. Zen gardens with rocks and flowering shrubs have been built around light posts, so that you don't notice them. Zen gardens are in fact everywhere.Japan is also gloriously beautiful. Tall mountains covered in green velvet tower over the city. Sparkling water everywhere you look. Warm sun and a fresh breeze. I can't wait to explore more of this country.I am seeing things I never thought I'd see. The culture is amazing and I am blessed to have this opportunity. I will of course post more blogs about my experiences. I hope that I can soak up as much of their way of life as I can in the next 3 years. It certainly is more pleasant than the constant negativity I have been used to. There is always something to be thankful for!