The Balance Between Talking About Pain and Getting On With Life
I have a slogan on my fridge: “Shut up. Suit up. Show up.” It reminds me that sometimes talking keeps you stuck, and action is the only way forward.
JapanLife
Observations from two decades of Japan life, from the nuances of teaching and farming to the comfort of a small home and everyday routines.
The Family Outsider: When You Love Them But Live Differently
My sister sent a photo of her and my dad eating at McDonald’s. It reminded me of everything I am missing. But it also made me realize something else: I am the family outsider.
It’s All Relative (But Is That Comfort or Cop-Out?)
Yesterday, I cycled to work in the pouring rain. At 56, it felt both liberating and slightly absurd. Part of me felt like a happy kid. Another part wondered if this is “failure to launch.”
The Quiet Practice of Being Grateful
Some mornings at 4 AM, walking to 7-Eleven, I have a conversation with something larger than myself. It is not formal prayer. It is just acknowledging that I have enough for today.
Chasing Dreams vs. Chasing Money (And Why I’m Still Figuring It Out)
At 3 AM, I wasn’t awake from stress. I was awake because I am addicted to hope. At nearly 60, I am still chasing dreams instead of sleeping. Is this healthy optimism or just avoidance?
Finding Balance in Alone Time
Even with friends, there is a hidden cost to constantly “adjusting” ourselves. Solitude is the only time we can stop performing. Here is why I crave the silence of the farm.
How Dreams Change as You Get Older
People say we are “rich” if we have a dream, regardless of our bank account. But sometimes I wonder if that is just a story we tell ourselves to feel better about living paycheck to paycheck.
The Art of Checking In With Yourself
For 20 years, my wife was my reality check. When she left, I lost my mirror. Now, 552 days into living alone, I have to perform my own daily audits to make sure I haven’t disappeared.
After 20 Years in Japan, My Japanese Is Still Pretty Basic (And That’s Complicated)
I have lived in Japan for 20 years. I have a 567-day Duolingo streak. Yet, I still panic at the tax office. Here is the complicated truth about why I am not fluent.
