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Japan, 2018 🇯🇵🗾⛩

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Chapter Thirteen

I cannot put into words how much my time in Japan has meant to me.

I will treasure the days with my family and friends here forever. Never before in my life have I felt so loved and welcomed and accepted as I have during this trip. When I first got to Japan I didn’t know what to expect- I had no idea what I was in for. But I went in with an open heart and mind and I’m happy to say that I will be leaving with an overflowing amount of memories.

My host family will always be my family, and my friends will always be my friends. I am so grateful for all of my experiences, and for all of the lessons I have learned.

I have come to learn many things, but here are a few of the ones I’ve found the most important:

1. Less is more.

When I was younger, this concept confused me. I mean? Less is less and more is more right? But little did I know that there has been more to this saying than just the dictionary definitions. What this saying truly means, is that you can be just as happy with less as you can with more. You don’t need as much as you think- and sometimes it’s better to have a little less of something to make it more special. I learned this lesson on day ONE when I overpacked- and I’m so thankful to have had that experience.

2. Try.

Try everything. My host father Kenji has not practiced as much english as Kumi and Yumi had before I arrived in Japan, but every time I spoke with Kenji he would always try his best to speak the english he knew. Even when his sentences were wrong or Kumi/Yumi would tease him for his mistakes, he never gave up and always kept trying to learn more and use more english. And I also mean to try new things! Try any and all new food you can- it’s worth it. I can honestly say that only ONCE did I try something that I didn’t like here in Japan. (Umeboshi: pickled salt plums. Gross. Super sour and I was NOT ready for it). But try new things as often as you can- and things that scare you too because you’ll never know if you’ll be able to try again.

3. Be here now.

These were the words spoken to me by a Buddhist Monk at the temple on Mt. Shosha before my cohort and I mediated. He clapped his hands and rang a bell and asked us if he could hear him, to which we all relied yes, and to that he said, “That is because you are here. Now. Not in the past, not in the future, but now. Be here now.” And I really took this to heart. Pay attention to your surroundings and truly appreciate the environment and people that are around you. Be here now- and don’t dwell on past or future occurrences. Let go.

4. Kindness is a gift. (And it’s free!!)

When I first got off the bus in Himeji with my suitcases in hand, I was greeted by my host family with open arms and open hearts. Their kindness was the first of many gifts that I recieved. I immediately felt welcome in their family and it made all the difference in the world. This was the same with my friends/teachers at school as well. Their kindness and generous hearts was flooring and I truly appreciated their love. People may not always remember what you say to them, but they will remember how you made them feel. So be kind, for it is a gift you can give for free.

5. Be prepared.

MAN did I learn this lesson. It’s best to have a backup plan, and a backup plan for the backup plan. And to always do today what you might not be able to do tomorrow. Life doesn’t always go as planned- and its best to be ready when it happens.

6. Share your stories.

During my time here in Japan I found that the more stories I told, the more the glass wall between me and the Japanese people would break. Story telling connects us and makes us feel apart of something different or apart of someone else’s life- and it really can brighten people’s days. So share your memories- because you never know if someone needs a good story time break.

7. Let go of comparisons.

This was another one of the lessons I’ve struggled with for some time now. But comparing really does rob you of your own joy. There will always be people with more and people with less in life, and it’s best to be grateful for what you have in order to truly appreciate your life. Be who YOU are and compare yourself to no one else. There is no one else in the world who has your memories or stories, and that is what makes you unique and special.

8. Love has no boundaries.

I learned this slowly over the course of my trip. From looking at Kumi and Kenji’s wedding/honeymoon album to watching the friendship of the girls at my school, I’ve learned that love connects us all. Despite a difference in language, culture, and geography, I can honestly say that I love all of my friends here in Japan and that I love my family as if they were my own. Love doesn’t have any restrictions- and that is something that I find amazingly beautiful.

9. Make your wishes known.

This lesson I was first introduced to when I was a little girl, curtesy of the book Phoebe and Chub, which talked about a frog(Phoebe) who wished for something and eventually told a fish (Chub) what she wanted which lead to her receiving it. While on your own abroad you have to make decisions and choices on your own- and making your wishes known makes life, quite simply, easier. Trust me.

10. Be thankful.

Now this was what I came into Japan with the intention of being. And WOW has it made the biggest impact. In Japanese culture, you say Itedakimasu before every meal as thank you to the animals that were killed by humans that you are about to eat, and Gochisosamadesda, after the meal as another thank you. I find this practice really special and sigoui (cool). It reminds me to stay grateful and humble every time I eat. But most of all- to be grateful is a combination of all the lessons I’ve learned. It makes my life brighter, and I thank the universe for giving me this experience.

All in all, I have had the trip of a lifetime. I will always remember this adventure. I’m so sad to leave, but I know that one day I’ll try to return.

To you, the reader: Thank you for spending the time to read and check in on my blog. I hope you enjoyed seeing some bits and pieces of my experience as much as I have enjoyed telling you about them. I wish you many travel blessings and good vibes.

Sayonara,

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist.

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Chapter Eleven

Konichiwa!

I thought I’d share a bit about what happened yesterday since I didn’t get time to blog due to lack of sleep and passing out.

Yesterday my cohort and I traveled to Nara, Japan. It was like a deer wonderland and hundreds of deer covered the whole city. I pet and fed the deer and even saw a LIVE deer birth. It was insane to see the little baby try to stand up. The deer weren’t afraid of humans at all- and they were very friendly.

We walked around Nara for a bit and I was even able to try freshly made mochi. Talk about OISHI!!! The day trip was a BLAST. And I even got to have ice cream twice!! First time was strawberry- which Nara is apparently famous for- and the second time was melon. It was soooo gooooodddd.

I was even able to see the temple in Nara with the HUGE Buddha. (Temple Zoshicho) I was so facinated by the ancient history that lies in Japan. I thought of the ancient Native American ruins in Arizona and the culture and history and stories that surround all of it.

I honestly want to convert to Buddhism btw. I really agree with all of their philosophies and way of life. I’ll keep you updated on my decision.

Well matane and Oyasumi for now-

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

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Chapter Twelve

Konichiwa,

Today was rather bittersweet. It was my last day of school at Kenmei Academy All Girls High School in Himeji. I’ve gotten to really know the girls there and they’ve become some of my close friends. At first it was really difficult to talk with them because I was nervous and I felt the glass wall separating us, then it transitioned into me being able to talk with them and tell their personalities from behind the glass wall, and finally to a state of pure friendship. Each of the girls in my class H2A were amazingly kind and loving. I always felt welcomed and at home. The teachers were just as kind- they always supported me and tried to speak english or communicate to the best of their ability.

But I have to confess- my favorite teacher was Mr. Yamamoto. He teaches english at Kenmei- and he’s a fantastic teacher. The girls all love him and he makes class enjoyable every day. I thought of how kind and funny and happy he is whenever I see him in class- and I wondered if everyday is like that for him. I sincerely hope it is. And if so, I’m so glad he is happy in his work. I hope to be as happy as he is in whatever job I have.

There are so many teachers in AZ that may dislike teaching but stay because it’s a secure job, and I think of the #RedForEd movement and how the teachers in Arizona are not NEARLY respected as much as they are in Japan. It feels like the teachers here are just all in all: happier. And don’t get me wrong- I’ve had plenty of teachers who love their job and who enjoy class every day- but I wish ALL teachers could feel this way in AZ.

But back to the students. My entire experience at Kenmei has been one that I will treasure close to my heart forever. I felt like the most popular girl at school, which was fun yes, but to be honest I was happy just to get to know all of the new faces and personalities. I think you forget that there are people in the world that you literally cannot imagine what they are like- and it’s an amazing feeling to meet these new faces. All the girls would often come up to me and say hello but due to lack of english, usually only giggles followed their greetings. But I was 100% content with that. Even though the language barrier exists- people are still people. Smiles are still smiles and laughs are still laughs. It connects us.

Today I had music class- and it really made me appreciate music. It connects the world- even though I had no idea the words my classmates were saying, I felt connected to the music just by humming the melody. I wrote an email to my music teacher (Mrs. Duncan) in Phoenix with a newfound appreciation for music and it’s teachers. I also had Home Economics, where I got to make tea cookies and tea with a lot of new friends. Baking is still baking (thank goodness) and the cookies turned out delicious.

But my final class was my favorite. Each day I started and ended school with Homeroom- and today I stood at the front of the class per Yumi’s request, and told the class how grateful I was for all of them. Then all of a sudden Mai, my friend, walked up to me and handed me a homemade yearbook/notebook complete with stickers, notes from the girls and pictures of the H2A class all cut out and carefully pasted on each page. I ain’t even gonna lie- I started to cry. After a few tears and a big group hug, I waved goodbye to my friends and left Kenmei with a refreshed love for school, learning, teachers, music, and friendship.

But after school did NOT mean the end of the tears. During the day my host mother Kumi told me that she had learned about my blog and read it all and she told me it made her cry. Due to the confusing language that english is and the difficultly of translation in google translate- in her text message it seemed that she was apologizing for something so I was rather worried when she picked me up from school. I asked her why my blog made her cry and she teared up and said “I [I’ll] miss you”. I LOST it. There’s no WAY I’m wearing makeup on Thursday. I’ll cry it ALL off.

To distract ourselves we headed to the zoo- it was pretty small and the animals were in small cages which made me a bit sad. But spending time with Kumi made it all better. We took funny pictures in the face cut out boards of animals and walked around talking about different names and sounds for animals in english and japanese. The whole time I thought of my dad and I at the zoo when I was little. I told Kumi about the turtles before you enter the Phoenix Zoo and how my dad and I would go every Monday and Tuesday to see the animals. I told her about my little pink bucket hat and matching yellow shirts with my dad and how it was very special to me. I missed my mom too. I missed her smile and her laugh and her hugs. I’ve realized that I’ve gained a set of parents, gentle Kumi and funny Kenji. I also thought of Cade- and his facts that he knows about all he animals and all the different names he talks about. I do miss his trivia. (Hi mom, dad and maybe Cade reading this- yes I miss you guys even though I’m not texting or calling very often).

After coming home from the zoo having a snack and passing OUT for a couple of hours (a WELL needed nap), my whole family and I just sat and talked for an hour. We talked about Disney movies and english words and funny stories about our families. I wish it could last forever. But as the Buddhist monk said, its best to “Be here now”.

Again- I’m so thankful and honored to be apart of my host family and happy to have made many friends at school. I’m gonna be a MESS on Thursday oh lord.....

But matane for now and Oyasumi.

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

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Chapter Ten

Konichiwa-

Man I am TIRED. I had such a huge day today.

The morning started bright and early when my host grandmother came over to help Yumi and I wear our brand new Yukatas for the Yukata festival in the evening. It honestly felt like prom prep- there was so much primping and makeup and clothing adjustments it was identical to the pre-prom/homecoming hustle. Directly after getting dressed, Yumi and I headed to the hair salon.

My hair was the most BEAUTIFUL it has ever been. I was stUNNED. The curls, glitter and sunflower style was gorgeous and definitely worth the solid 15 minutes I spend untangling the mess after I got home.

From the hair salon we hustled over to the takoyaki (octopus, ik sounds strange) party where we ate dELICIOUS (Oishi) takoyaki and played a very intense game of pictionary. It was fun to get to see all of the other youth ambassadors that would be traveling to Himeji’s sister cities as well as the ones who had already traveled. It was cool to be in a place with so many people who were in the program.

Once the party ended- all of us rushed off to the festival. There was food lining the streets and carnival games. Was I ripped off a couple times during the games? Yes. Was it worth it? Yes. The experience of another culture’s party was fantastic and it felt similar to the AZ state fair, except every girl was in a yukata and it was all out in the streets of Himeji.

We walked for HOURS and my feet really hurt but I was having a great time. Totally worth it.

So, after a long day of festival prep, partying and walking, I finally got the chance to sit down and blog.

I’ll be heading to Nara, Japan tomorrow so I’ll keep you posted- but for now-

Matane!

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

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Chapter Nine

Konichiwa!

Today I had another wonderful adventure with my host mother and sister.

After having tea with my host grandmother, who really reminded me of my own grandmother, we got a bite to eat and then went to Kobe, Japan.

It was very posh- and it reminded me of Fashion Square in Scottsdale, Az. One of the best parts of the night by far was going out to eat at a Japanese steak/hamburger shop that seemed to be western themed but still had Japanese style food. They played the America’s top hits playlist and I literally knew every song. There was so much culture clash at once it was insane...😂

Tomorrow is the Yukata Matsuri (Festival)- and I can’t WAIT. I finally feel like a true part of the family and the glass wall is in shatters. It’s hilarious because Kumi (host mom) still makes so much fun of Kenji (host dad) for his broken english- but I love watching them tease each other. It reminds me of my own parents- and it also reminds me how (warning! gushy part) love connects everyone, language barrier, culture difference and all.

I’m so grateful for all of my experiences so far and I’m happy to be continuing my adventure.

Matane!

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

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Chapter Eight

Konichiwa,

Today I learned another influential fact of life. Teenage girls are still teenage girls, goofy teachers are still goofy teachers, and family is still family.

At school I had a couple of classes without Yumi or her usual friends who know a good amount of english- so it was pretty intimidating. But the students were all so kind and welcoming that I barely noticed. I played basketball and did some karate in P.E., I helped teach english, and got to try the extremely delicious cafeteria food. (Japan school lunch: 1 American school lunch: -1,000,000)

After school I hung out with Kumi and she took me to the Himeji Art Museum. The artwork was stunning and the museum even had works of art from different parts of the world like France and Italy- and even artwork by Pablo Picasso! Kumi was laughing super hard at me because in one collection of drawings were a bunch of animal drawings- and I tried to name all of them, but everytime I thought an animal was different Kumi would laugh and say “No. Bear”. There were literally 10 bears and I thought 8 of them were different animals. It was hilarious.

Once we left the museum I walked around Himeji with Kumi. It reminded me of walking with my mom- and it made me miss her a lot. Kumi is such a kind mother. I think my mom and her would be good friends. She has a top notch sense of humor- and a passion for adventure.

When we got home with Yumi from school, we were able to relax and just enjoy some quality family time. When I was showing them pictures from Arizona, I had to stop and explain the different things I was doing, and when I showed them pictures from the Woman’s March, The Anti-Gun Violeve March, and the Red for Ed march, I knew I had to expand.

I had a really serious conversation with my host parents (in as basic english words as possible) about the problems going on in America right now. I told them about our current president, Donald Trump, and why he is so controversial, I told them about the immigration problem and problem with policy making, and the scariness of gun violence such as the Parkland Shooting. Although it was all hard to explain- I’m really glad that they listened to what I thought about each subject. It was really refreshing.

Once the deep-talk was over, we talked about english words. Kumi and Kenji are sO FUNNY. Kumi constantly makes fun of Kenji for not knowing certain english words, but in actuality he knows a lot more than he lets on, so he would always say “I can understand! I know english.” And it would always make Kumi and Yumi laugh super hard.

I also want to talk about the waste management here. While on my walk- I didn’t notice a SINGLE piece of trash. It’s so CLEAN! This probably has something to do with their laws- but here are some things I’ve noticed that are better for the environment than American practices:

1. Sinks don’t have paper towels. Everyone has their own wash cloth! Super confident and very good for the environment.

2. There are no napkins! I feel like I’m a messy eater so it kinda bites- but it prevents TONS of waste

3. There’s no gum. Not in stores, not in people’s mouths, and not on any street or sidewalk. Its really refreshing and makes the area always beautifully clean.

All in all, today was a wonderfully simple yet extremely special day. I feel like the glass wall is almost completely broken down.

Matane and Oyasumi!

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

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Chapter 7

Konichiwa!

Today was a very big day for Himeji, Japan, Phoenix, Arizona, and me. This morning, my cohort and I met with the mayor of Himeji, Japan, Toshikatsu Iwami.

As a cohort, we presented him with a beautiful blanket that represented the Grand Canyon, and in return he gifted us with stunning photography of the ancient yet pristine Himeji Castle. It was really fun to talk with him, and it seemed like he was very down to earth and a bit of a jokester. We talked about what we enjoyed most about Himeji, and I even spoke a bit about the difficulties of the language barrier.

After this, we were briefly interviewed by the press (I’m gonna be FAMOUS haHA) and took some pictures with our newfound friend/the mayor.

Once we finished our small conference and had delicious raman for lunch- my cohort and I headed off to learn how to play the sport Chanbara. IT WAS SO MUCH FUN. Mainly because we learned how to properly hit each other with what felt like pool noodles but were really fake swords. Our sensei was very comedic, and I laughed so much my stomach ached and my face hurt from smiling.

Once the day with my cohort had ended, I came home and helped my host mother make fried shrimp for dinner. Oishī (delicious)! I even got to see Yumi’s baby pictures. Cutest. Baby. EVER.

I’m so greatful to be a member of this new family. I really feel at home- and the glass wall is almost completely shattered.

Matane and Oyasumi!

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

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Chapter Six

Konichiwa,

Before I start my post I want to address the Osaka earthquake that happened today. My family and I are safe, thankfully, but my host dad Kenji works in Osaka and he felt it the most. He wasn’t able to come home for some time due to the trains being down. People were injured, so I hope they all have a speedy recovery. I felt the ground shake too- it scared me but not as much as the loud Japanese alarm that went off on my phone. I didn’t know what was going on due to the language barrier. In summary- all is well.

Continuing on: Today I thought I’d do something a little different. Aside from this blog, I’ve also been keeping a personal diary and earlier today I made a list of the things that are different in Japan that I didn’t expect or already think of- Apparently, I don’t know everything. (Sometimes 😉)

1. Physical touch is not popular. I really miss hugs. In America, I hug family/friends at LEAST 10 times a day- and here I haven’t had a hug once. Tragic. Maybe I’ll ask Yumi if I can give her a hug tomorrow.

2. Slurping your noodles and soup is 100% ok and encouraged! Before learning this I had noodles for lunch and was super careful not to slurp- but thank GOODNESS it’s ok. Now I don’t feel embarrassed if I do.

3. You know how when you walk on the sidewalk people typically fall into the same traffic patterns and directions? Yeah, in Japan, that idea is thrown out the window. It’s literally a free-for-all. Wanna walk left? Person. Wanna walk right? Stroller. Wanna go straight? Group of school students. Honestly if you tried to follow my exact footsteps in the mall when I’m trying to get around-you would get dizzy.

4. Pigeons are wish birds! When Yumi told me this I thought she made a mistake- but no- they’re seriously wish birds & good luck. When I told my host mom and Yumi that they are “garbage birds” in America, they couldn’t believe it. I’ve never seen people laugh harder. Hopefully after hearing this I’ll have some better luck in America because pigeons are EVERYWHERE.

5. Breakfast is like lunch in America- It’s sooo gooood. Miso soup, lettuce, meat, egg omelet looking thing (I’ll ask what it is tomorrow) and lots of different juices to choose from. There’s a variety of juice and tea for every meal which is AWESOME for a diabetic. If my blood sugar is low, juice is always nearby.

6. You have to take your shoes off all. the. time. Home? Shoes off. School? Shoes off. Restaurant? Shoes off. Dressing room? Shoes off. I even went to the dentist when Yumi got her braces off and guess what? Shoes off. The strangest feeling was definitely walking through a restraunt with no shoes for lunch- I wanted to slide everywhere I walked but I restrained myself.

7. The Fashion is very conservative. I guess I’m used to the extreme heat of AZ, but here, long skirts and flowy tops are IN. I had to do some shopping for sure. Colored contacts are huge too- when I saw Yumi take out her colored contacts while waiting for a train I was SHOOK.

9. No one says bless you when you sneeze! I said bless you to a stranger on the train on accident and he just looked at me like I had a third eye. Oops.

10. Toilet is a common day word. This might not seem super strange but for me, I never use the word toilet. It seems slightly taboo for some reason and I’m not sure why. But here, toilet is just a normal non-taboo commonality.

11. JAPANESE CONVIENCE STORES ARE THE BEST. Enough said.

12. Everyone is SO QUIET on the trains. In New York, you can barely hear yourself think. In Japan, you can take a nap and wake up refreshed when you get to your destination. Super awesome. 10/10.

13. The customer is KING/QUEEN. Every store worker is super kind and humble. You’re treated with the utmost respect and when you buy something, it’s wrapped nicely and usually the bag is taped shut. Oh and they give you the bag outside the store too. It’s all super nice- especially because in America you are not treated importantly at ALL.

14. IT IS SO HUMID. I am SWEATING as I type. Those Japanese fans are seriously so useful. I made one in art class today and am currently using it like crazy. I’m so used to the dry heat, but it rained today and now everything is WET. But honestly if that’s the price I pay for being here- I’ll pay it any day.

15. There’s so much GREEN! Along with water, plant life surrounds me wherever I go. It’s so refreshing especially because in AZ everything is just various shades of brown.

16. There’s no napkins with any meal. You get a wet wipe before- but that’s about it. I feel like I can’t make any mistakes at all. I’m definitely getting good practice with chopsticks despite my messiness though.

17. Bed time is LATE. Everyone goes to sleep at like 11:30-12:00. My mother Kumi goes to sleep at 12:30 or 1:00am every night. It’s crazy. And there isn’t any time for napping either! I do miss naps a bit, but honestly I’m trying to make every moment I have memorable so I’m glad I’m not spending my time asleep.

18. Itadakimasu (I thankfully recieve) and gochisousama (I’m grateful for the meal) is said before and after every meal. There really isn’t a better explanation in english- it’s something that’s just special to Japan. I enjoy it though, I am already big on gratitude but saying thank you before and after reminds me how fortunate and blessed I am to be here.

19. It’s very safe. Yumi told me I don’t really have to worry to much about my stuff on trains- people don’t really steal much.

20. English is a popular language and all of the students I’ve met in school are eager to learn it. It’s fun for me to help them out- and today I actually got to teach one of the english classes because a teacher wasn’t there! (Seriously hoping I didn’t make any mistakes while teaching but I’m pretty sure I nailed it)

All in all, the people of Japan are very kind. Respect is a key aspect of their culture and again I’m very grateful to be a part of it. Everyone I’ve met is genuinely happy to speak with me and I feel so warmly welcomed and accepted. The glass wall I talked about in earlier posts seems to be cracking a bit, and for that, I am truly thankful.

Oyasumi and matane!

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

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Chapter Five

I would usually start this post of with Konichiwa, but today was no usual day and I want to respect that.

I’m being 100% honest when I say that today was literally one of the best days of my life.

Kumi, Yumi and I started the morning with a delicious breakfast which was very different than what I’m used to in America. Think lunch time food in America- and that’s pretty much the Japanese breakfast. We got ready (Yumi and I wore matching dresses that we got yesterday) and headed out to the train to go to Osaka. Getting to Osaka was like walking out and into a dream.

For lunch I got to try authentic raman noodles- and some other snacks too. I’ve made it a goal to try everything weird or strange that we don’t have in America- and it is by far the BEST goal I’ve set for myself. (Aside from always looking on the bright side). After a quick stop to a professional Japanese steel shop (shout out to my chef father), we headed back to the train and went off to Kyoto.

Now, when I said going to Osaka was like walking out and into a dream, I meant it. But when we arrived in Kyoto- it was more like stepping out and into a fantasy. I have never seen so much green in my entire LIFE. Kyoto is right in between two luscious green mountains- and a river flows through the city as well. All was fantastic until I looked down at my phone, my only way of taking pictures, and realized that it was at 1%. I only got to take 2 pictures before it died in my hands. I was pretty bummed out- but luckily Yumi generously offered to lend me her phone to take as many pictures as I wanted.

In Kyoto- the very first thing we did was get ice cream. Yumi has the biggest sweet tooth (just like me) so we never go long without sweets (yay). As I sat down and enjoyed my matcha ice cream- I longed for the moment to last forever. The peaceful sound of the river flowing by, the sweet taste of ice cream on a beautiful day that wasn’t too hot or too cold, and just enjoying time with my host mother and sister. Needless to say- whenever I have a hard day back in America, I will undoubtably think back to that one moment.

BUT WAIT...There’s more! (Shoutout to Billy Mays RIP)

After leaving Kyoto- we headed back to Osaka for a bit more shopping as well as a delicious gyoza dinner. I forced myself to eat all 12 gyoza even though I was totally stuffed because WOW it was good. After dinner we rode on the tallest ferris wheel I’ve ever been on- the High Ride. There was even a mini speaker inside our passenger car, which after luckily finding an outlet during dinner, I used my phone to play some Arianna Grande (their favorite). As I looked out the window and at the beautiful city of Osaka- I realized that this has honestly been one of the best days of my life.

I will treasure the memory forever- and I’m so grateful to be here.

Oyasumi and matane.

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

[haydenaraza-blog]

Chapter 4

Konichiwa!

Man do I have a story to TELL. Today was a very busy day, and because Yumi was at school I was able to spend some quality time with my host mother, Kumi. We went shopping in Himeji and I was able to get some really cute outfits, and then we headed off to lunch.

But at lunch, because I am a type one diabetic and have to take insulin for every meal, I felt around for my insulin pump that I carry on me everywhere I go, and it wasn’t there. You know that saying “my stomach dropped”? Well imagine that feeling x1000. It was literally the most terrifying moment of my life. I had left my external organ in a foreign country, in a foreign store, where no one speaks english, and where no one really knows what an American insulin pump is.

I immediately told Kumi that we had to go back to the shops, which we did promptly. After going to every store without finding it, I had come to the conclusion that it was lost for good. Luckily, I had packed an emergency spare pump (shout out to being prepared- a lesson WELL learned) in my suitcase so Kenji (host father) and I rushed back home to get it. I felt horrible, mainly because the replacement pump is really expensive, but also because I just felt like a travel failure. I explained this to my host parents who were nothing but kind and comforting to me during the entire process.

But by some luck of the stars, after going back to the mall with Yumi who had gotten out of school, we went back to a certain store that literally held my life in its hands. Yumi and I were going to get matching dresses to get a discount, and that just so happened to be the store that I left my pump in. The manager came rushing out after I told her I was still looking for my pump, and had it in a little bag all wrapped up for me. I screamed with joy (scared most of the people around me) but I couldn’t help myself. Best. Moment. Ever.

After this whole fiasco, Kenji picked us girls up from the mall and we all headed to Kumi’s parent’s house for dinner. There I got to meet all of Kumi’s family which was really special. It reminded me of my own family gatherings- filled with laughter and fun. The grandpa was HILARIOUS and he poked fun at every family member in the house. The grandma prepared sushi for us to make ourselves- and it was such an amazing and delicious experience.

After dinner followed a “watermelon cutting ceremony” for dessert, which was rather strange to me but very yummy. We even got to light some fireworks after dinner out in the street as well.

I waved matane as my little family and I drove off and on the way home I thought of how grateful I am to be here. Even though I still feel as though there’s a glass wall between me and the rest of the Japanese people including my family, I know that everyone I’ve met has been kind and welcoming and has made my stay in Japan unforgettable.

Oyasumi and matane!

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

[haydenaraza-blog]

(Chapter Three)

[haydenaraza-blog]

Chapter Three

Kon'nichiwa,

Today was my first day out and about in the city of Himeji. With the help of Motoco (Our program director in Japan) and others, my cohort and I practiced a bit of Japanese and learned some tips and tricks for life in Japan.

After this we visited a beautiful Shrine that I wasn’t told the name of (I’m not sure it has one). I learned how to pray at a shrine as well: Ring the bell, bow twice, clap twice, bow once more. Once I prayed for the first time, I went to the mini shop in the shrine and tried my luck at a little fortune revealing box. Depending on the slip of paper you got from the box of random chance, you would either get good or bad luck. Lucky for me (haha) I recieved the good luck paper! It was an overall beautiful shrine, and a breathtaking sight.

After going to the shrine, my cohort and I had a delicious lunch and then went to a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony. There, we met our Sensei who reminded me an awful lot of my own grandmother. She was very kind and after she served us tea and sweets, she taught us how to make our own tea! I’m definitely going to be making a mess in my kitchen when I get home from trying to recreate the process. We were then able to create a beautiful flower arrangement of our own with the guidance of the Sensei to compliment our tea ceremony. The entire performance was amazing.

But the most surprising thing today was undoubtably the fact that our Sensei actually spoke Spanish!! And because I can speak more Spanish than Japanese, I could have a conversation with her about Phoenix and my family! I never thought Spanish would be helpful in Japan- but there I was- using spanish- in Japan.

After this afternoon, Kumi (my mom) picked me up and we went to see Yumi who had just gotten her braces off (yay) and then we went out to sushi station. My jaw hung wide open at the sushi station because of the amazing process of how the restraunt worked. You would order food from an ipad and then it would roll out to you on a little train next to your booth so you could take it! (See picture/video for better explanation) I was also able to try dorayaki- which is basically two pancakes with red bean paste in between them like a sweet hot ice cream sandwich. I was STUFFED.

After doing a little more shopping and finally coming home to watch Finding Dory with her family in Japanese (they spent about 20 minutes trying to turn on english subtitles), I’m finally in bed getting a chance to catch my breath and blog.

But watashi wa nemui (I’m sleepy) so I think I’ll call it a night and get some rest. After all- my family at home just now waking up!

Matane!

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

[haydenaraza-blog]

Chapter Two

Kon'nichiwa,

I have to say- I never thought I’d enjoy having to go to school in the summertime, but here I am in Himeji, Japan, absolutely loving school.

Yesterday morning I woke up at 6:00am bright and early so that I had time to eat and get ready. We took the train to Himeji Station and from there, walked to her school, Kansei Catholic High. It’s an all girls school- so you can imagine the high amount of giggles and laughter that flows through every classroom.

Yumi’s friends are so kawaii (cute)! They asked me all about high school in Phoenix, my friends, and my hobbies, but the language barrier prevented any deep conversations. I have to say- the language barrier is really real, and a real bummer. I feel like there’s a glass wall between everyone else and me. I can guess what Yumi’s friend’s personalities are based on their body language and how the others react when they talk, but I can’t cross over into being apart of the group because I can’t speak Japanese. I really wish I learned more before I came. However, the girls all tried to talk in english and everyone was eager to introduce themselves. I was literally THE most popular girl at school, and I have to admit, it was so much fun. I spoke english with the few english teachers there, and I even helped out with the class vocabulary lists!

After school, Yumi and I went to her friends’ dance club. There I learned an intensified dance to the YMCA- which I thought was going to be easy before I realized that their dance version of the YMCA was way cooler than just the normal American arm movements. I was EXHAUSTED.

All in all, it was a great day at school and I can’t wait to go back again.

Matane (See you)!

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

[haydenaraza-blog]

Chapter One

Kon'nichiwa from Japan!

Wow do I have a lot to say...but I’ll keep it brief. On my flight to Konsai, Osaka, I experienced more jitters than ever before coupled with excitement beyond belief. It was a long day of flying, and I had been awake for literally 30 hours. But getting off the plane, through customs, and out of the airport made it all worth it.

I’m not kidding when I say that I literally screamed with excitement when I stepped outside in Japan for the first time. (I actually scared the Japanese director of Phoenix Sister Cities with my squeak). After a two hour drive to Himeji, my cohort and I were greeted by our very hyper host families who were all waving small versions of the American flag. It was there I met my host family for the first time in person, Yumi (my sister), Kumi (my mother), and Kenji (my father). They welcomed me with open arms.

Now, to be honest, I have never really thought of my house in Phoenix as very large. I actually always considered it a bit small. But man was I in for a surprise when I walked into Yumi’s house for the first time. My house could basically eat their house...it’s about 5 times smaller than mine. But I serisouly love it. After only two days of living with them, I’ve realized perhaps one of the most important lessons in my life: that less is sometimes more and that more does not always mean better.

Personally I’ve struggled with this concept at times, comparing my belongings or house to those of my friends, but living with Yumi really proves to me how much I DON’T need. (Oh and I’m sure you’ve already guessed that I WAYY overpacked). I’m very grateful for this lesson I’ve learned.

All in all, my first day/night in Japan were a complete success. My host family is so kind and they all make an effort to speak as much english as they can with me, and I’ve already learned a valuable lesson. I’m so very grateful and I look forward to the rest of this week for sure.

Matane (See you!)

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist

[haydenaraza-blog]

Allow me to introduce myself...

My name is Hayden Araza. I’m 17, a type one diabetic and a lover of sunflowers. I am passionate about standing up for the things I believe in and living in the present. Some things to know: 

- I’m a nature enthusiast and love adventures of the outdoors.

- I’m a strong believer of self-care and mental health. Routine, Awareness, and Checkpoints are key. 

- I’m a lover not a fighter, but I’ll fight for what I love. 

As I prepare to travel to Himeji, Japan, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement mixed with anxiety. I’ve never traveled on my own before- and this will be a totally new experience for me. I’ve been putting out my travel wishes into the universe for some time now, and I feel like the universe finally answered me back when the opportunity to apply for Phoenix Sister Cities appeared. 

Now I find myself with a plane ticket on my fridge and a list of travel dos and don’ts in my hand. But deep down I know that the pins in my map of the world, the countless travel books, and all of the bookmarked “Best Advice For travel” pages on my computer won’t be able to fully prepare me for my adventure. Like reading the inside flap of a new book, you never really know what journey the book will take you on before you read the whole thing. But one thing I do know, is that I am a lover of change. I’ve discovered that, for me, variety is the key to happiness, and gratitude is the key to fulfillment. Comparison is the thief of joy. 

As I type here on the evening of my last day of school and on the horizon of my first day of summer vacation, I feel compelled to inspire my future self.

So here’s my intention for this upcoming trip:

“I will live in the present, be the best version of myself I can be, find a silver lining to any difficult situation, embrace the unknown, avoid comparison, and be grateful for all of my experiences.” 

Signed,

A Teenage Optimist