昨日 Yesterday...
The other day, I spent some time with a friend in 山形市 (Yamagata-shi Yamagata City). We walked around 七日町 (Nanoka-machi 7th Day Town) and had nice conversations about friends, our lives, our dreams, the differences between America and Japan, and of course, English. This meeting felt nostalgic actually. It reminded me of the times I’ve spent with friends in America talking about similar topics while at the same time having fun and enjoying each other’s company. From my point of view, I think that I’m starting to become accustomed to life in Japan. The only difference is, that from time to time, we spoke Japanese. Actually, I would say about half of the time was spent speaking in Japanese while the other half was spoken in English. Honestly, my friend’s English speaking ability is not as good as you think. However, this person is sincerely trying very hard to become as fluent as possible. People in Japan study English for years whether they want to or not. And yet, the ability people possess seems that of barely knowing the language at all. Unfortunately, the opportunity to speak English is very rare around these areas and throughout most of Japan too. I knew about this before, but knowing and experiencing the problem are two different things. And from this meeting, I truly began to completely realize the importance of speaking my native tongue to those who have the desire and passion to learn.
“Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do.” ~ Bruce Lee
Until recently, I’ve found myself to be using more and more English than usual. The reason for not using as much English at first was to make myself feel comfortable and confident enough to have conversations with Japanese people. After overcoming this hurdle, I use as much English as possible within the conversations thereafter.
Trying to find the balance between my desire to use Japanese and everyone else’s desire to learn English has been difficult.
But, I’ve always looked at life as not being easy. And being able to overcome certain difficulties makes one that much stronger. As for the difficulties that I’ve been experiencing here in Japan, I know for a fact that my difficulties are not nearly as difficult as what other people in many parts of the world struggle with. Taking this in mind, I am always thankful for the life that I’m given. For this reason, I will continue to overcome my hurdles in life in order to achieve my dreams. And as for all of you, I hope you can all do the same, if not better.
“Acknowledge. Adapt. Overcome.” It’s only fitting.
“Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do.” ~ Bruce Lee
Until recently, I’ve found myself to be using more and more English than usual. The reason for not using as much English at first was to make myself feel comfortable and confident enough to have conversations with Japanese people. After overcoming this hurdle, I use as much English as possible within the conversations thereafter.
Trying to find the balance between my desire to use Japanese and everyone else’s desire to learn English has been difficult.
But, I’ve always looked at life as not being easy. And being able to overcome certain difficulties makes one that much stronger. As for the difficulties that I’ve been experiencing here in Japan, I know for a fact that my difficulties are not nearly as difficult as what other people in many parts of the world struggle with. Taking this in mind, I am always thankful for the life that I’m given. For this reason, I will continue to overcome my hurdles in life in order to achieve my dreams. And as for all of you, I hope you can all do the same, if not better.
“Acknowledge. Adapt. Overcome.” It’s only fitting.