"Staying in this room is what will make you sick!"
"Staying in this room is what will make you sick!" is one of the memorable quotes from none other than Japanese Animator, Producer/Director Hayao Miyazaki's international masterpiece "Spirited Away".
Reaching the conversation between the film's growing 10-year-old female protagonist, Chihiro and the reluctant to leave his room, Bôh hold a deeper message.
four wall partition
entering and exiting
the life of a pig
…
"Staying in this room is what will make you sick!" is one of the memorable quotes from none other than Japanese Animator, Producer/Director Hayao Miyazaki's international masterpiece "Spirited Away".
Reaching the conversation between the film's growing 10-year-old female protagonist, Chihiro and the reluctant to leave his room, Bôh hold a deeper message.
Given the world's current condition, it's completely normal to feel afraid and cautious of our surroundings when venturing outside (wear a mask)..
Yet, without setting a growth and positive mindset even when staying at home, is setting ourselves up to become stuck in our ways.
Today, I encourage everyone whose feeling overwhelmed, tired or lost to take a deep breath and release stress. Today is your day to get out of your (mind) room.
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dear mr. murakami,
Last year, I tried making a ritual of reading before going to sleep. The goal to reduce screen time and get my mind immersed in a story.
Honestly, the evening practice hasn't held up well but I managed to read two books. Both of which were penned by the famously, reclusive acclaimed writer Haruki Murakami..
feline prophecy
adversaries improvise
melodic timbre
…
Last year, I tried making a ritual of reading before going to sleep. The goal to reduce screen time and get my mind immersed in a story.
Honestly, the evening practice hasn't held up well but I managed to read two books. Both of which were penned by the famously, reclusive acclaimed writer Haruki Murakami..
Curious about the man behind works "Kafka on the Shore" to "Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman", I found an interesting essay Murakami published in the New York Times mid-2007 named" Jazz Messenger".
In it he describes his first encounter with Jazz music hearing Art Barkley and company at the youthful age of 15.
From that experience, the rest is as they say, history. Owning a Jazz Bar to eventually having the epiphany at a baseball game of writing his first book, set Murakami on the path of sharing his writing style with the world.
Revered for interweaving his perennial love for jazz, cats, strong female characters and fascination with fate/prophecy turning into reality, I've only just become a fan of his literature. Yet if given the opportunity, I would ask him..
What comes to your mind listening to "Moanin'" by Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers?
The NY Times article referenced
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high context cultures
With anthropologic beginnings, high context cultures is a term used to describe east asian countries as a result for their homogeneous, well-established, following rules nature and subtle communication is often implied or doesn't exist.
social gathering
sitting across the table
another monkey
…
With anthropologic beginnings, high context cultures is a term used to describe east-asian countries as a result for their homogeneous, well-established, following rules nature and subtle communication is often implied or doesn't exist.
The end goal of these behaviors is to foster a harmony of community. Like a hive mind with deep-seated status hierarchy, this topic is something I've observed watching international tv shows.
An example of this at work is in the Netflix's Series Terrace House. The hit Japanese reality show films six strangers living together and their everyday activities. While the plots expressed on the show cover work and relationships, it's very interesting to see how the members deal with disagreements and simply asking someone they like out on a date.
While implied gestures and small changes in body language are enough to "read the air" of a situation in Japan, not the same can be said in America or Western countries.
Yet, no matter the context, it may be best to follow the old adage when crossing a busy street - to always stop, look and listen to surroundings. Doing so before acting will give you time to fully take in the moment.
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MOTTAINAI!
Mottainai or "What a waste!" is an exclamation and feeling of regret for misusing material objects and other resources.
black takeout boxes
and in every takeout box
a box of treasure
…
Mottainai or "What a waste!" is an exclamation and feeling of regret for misusing material objects and other resources.
Deeply rooted in Buddhism, this principle speaks towards sustainablity and environmentalism practices.
Although most everyday items come pre-packaged and are made of plastic, it's good to be mindful of what and when to reuse, recycle and reinvigorate objects:
Instead of using paper or plastic bags, carry a tote to pack groceries. Mind throwing away leftover food and put in a storage container. If your clothes get a hole, add a patch or fix with a quick stitch.
No matter how small the effort, these actions add up and ultimately impact our homes and planet for the better.
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THE CURTAIN OF GOODWILL
What is your brand? Or let me ask this another way. What is your reputation?
The noren is a traditional fabric dividers hung between entrances, walls, or windows to protect homes and businesses from the changing climate & symbolizes a company's value.
walking in shade
red ants form a line
open for business
…
What is your brand? Or let me ask this another way. What is your reputation?
The noren is a traditional fabric dividers hung between entrances, walls, or windows to protect homes and businesses from the changing climate & symbolizes a company's value.
Often seen as welcome signs in front of restaurants, my perspective on these cotton curtains has shifted towards the word's literal definition.
Reputation. Everyone has one. Our identity or core in many ways is shown from the actions we do or don't take. How other's perceive this forms an image of our character.
As hanging a noren signifies opening for business, we all should be conscious of how our reputation but moreover our actions impact friends, family and others. Only then will we see patrons flok to your storefront to learn and appreciate your story.
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ONE PRE-MEAL PHRASE...
Itadakimasu!
The pre-meal phrase that translates as "I will humbly accept" has been an essential Japanese ritual passed down for generations. Appreciating what was sacrificed or put into making a meal before eating is similar to praying before a meal.
five generations
practicing etiquette
is second nature
…
Itadakimasu!
The pre-meal phrase that translates as "I will humbly accept" has been an essential Japanese ritual passed down for generations. Appreciating what was sacrificed or put into making a meal before eating is similar to praying before a meal.
Growing up as a fifth generation Japanese American this cultural dining etiquette was heavily engrained from an early age.
In my youth, I often dove right into eating and would skip this simple practice. Thinking back this I was always in a rush to get food from my plate and into my stomach.
Now 28 years old, not much has changed. Except a better understanding of the meaning behind this phrase and action.
Next time you sit down to enjoy your favorite food, say itadakimasu!
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-Tomosumi
SLOW POETRY MOVEMENT
What does it mean to live a slow lifestyle?
Often seen as an acronym that focuses on sustainable, local, organic and whole themes, this movement flows directly against today's consumerist and demanding way of life.
afternoon rainfall
reflected in the eyes
of passing strangers
…
What does it mean to live a slow lifestyle?
Often seen as an acronym that focuses on sustainable, local, organic and whole themes, this movement flows directly against today's consumerist and demanding way of life.
In my eyes, this can be seen by our actions and perspectives. You, me, family, friends and even strangers are all given 24 hours in a day. It's what we each intentionally chose to do (less or more of) in that time is what separates or brings us together.
For the future, I hope this post will act as a remember to savor your journey.
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THREE WORDS TO LIVE BY...
SAVOR YOUR JOURNEY
Three words to live by and a term my late father would often say to my family.
five minutes
beautifully we age
to golden brown
…
SAVOR YOUR JOURNEY
Three words to live by and a term my late father would often say to my family.
During his battle with stage four pancreatic cancer, he saw my older brother and me graduate High School and be accepted to his alma mater, became a published author, global inspirational speaker all while working his day job and enduring toxic chemotherapy.
While all incredible feats, I'd always admire his approach and attitude towards life. Family first, slow living and helping others were always on the top of his mind..
Until I see you again dad, I'll make sure to live a intentional life and enjoy some fries along the way.
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2.9 MILLION STEPS LATER...
From August 29th, 2020 to today, I've taken at least 20,000 steps per day.
After some quick math, this comes out to over 2.9 MILLION STEPS?!
five months ago
on the wrong path
a traveler turns
…
From August 29th, 2020 to today, I've taken at least 20,000 steps per day. After some quick math, this comes out to over 2.9 MILLION STEPS?!
Now I know what you're thinking, why would you want to walk that much?
To answer this, I have to take you back.
During a week long business trip in the fall 2019, I lived the "salary-man" work schedule in the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, Japan.
Everywhere I went, everyone appeared to be headed to their destination with a sense of purpose and direction.
Or maybe they were running late.
No matter the reason, that trip inspired me to take more steps as a way to clear my head and relax.
Until the next 2 million steps, follow for more introspective haiku.
How music transcends language part III
The finale of the three-part series for how music transcends language.
rising and setting
seeing a familiar face
twice in a lifetime
…
The finale of the thee-part series for how music transcends language.
What connects these three songs..."Stay With Me" by Miki Matsubara, "Plastic Love" by Mariya Takeuchi, and "NEON" by YUKIKA?
Two words: City pop - シティポップ
Recently, I've noticed the once forgotten "urban" music genre popular in the 80's of Japan has made a bit of a comeback from new media (TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube).
Nonetheless, I wonder is this music revival simply a passing trend or the genre's second coming reflecting today's "youth-culture"?
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How music transcends language part II
Writing yesterday's haiku motivated me to create a three-post series for how music transcends language.
Here is pt2:
walking home
once again, returns
fleeting twilight
…
Writing yesterday's haiku motivated me to create a three-post series for how music transcends language.
Here is pt2:
Jun Seba (1974-2010) was a Japanese record producer, label maker, store owner and progressive DJ whose considered one of the godfathers of genres - jazz rap, chillhop and lo-fi hip hop
Known under the stage name Nujabes (his name spelled backwards), his discography and genre breaking collaborations created new waves in the music industry.
While passing in 2010, Nujabes warm, nostalgic, and longing sound carries on with the artists he worked with and next generation.
Next time you listen to metaphorical music, lo-fi youtube playlists or watch the acclaimed anime, Samurai Champloo - think of Nujabes.
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How music transcends language
Music transcends language.
As I've gotten older, a burning desire to reconnect with my culture has taken various shapes from acquiring Japanese, cooking traditional cuisine and most recently, listening to J-Pop, Jazz Rap and Lo-Fi Hip-Hop.
clouds separate
whistling to the sky
a green pheasant
…
Music transcends language.
As I've gotten older, a burning desire to reconnect with my culture has taken various shapes from acquiring Japanese, cooking traditional cuisine and most recently, listening to J-Pop, Jazz Rap and Lo-Fi Hip-Hop.
When I first heard Kyo Sakamoto's "Ue o Mite Arukuo" (known as "Sukiyaki" in America), I never imagined 58 years ago, this song charted number 1 in America?!
This timeless tune with melodic whistling motivates me to continue acquiring Japanese.
Nowadays, the consumption of listening to multi-genre artists and songs is commonplace.
Beyond the catchy hooks, trending snippets, and endless streaming services, have you ever thought how music connects us?
Comment below a song that's transcended language for you.
"What's your dream for your children and grandchildren?"
Today's haiku is a dedication to my 95 year old grandmother's unshakeable strong-will, vision and our family's pear tree she planted after being excepted back as a citizen of the United States.
wrinkled by sun
in the eyes of
the pear tree
…
Today's haiku is a dedication to my 95 year old grandmother's unshakeable strongwill, vision and our family's pear tree she planted after being excepted back as a citizen of the United States.
Observing Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I asked my grandmother at a virtual safe distance this question:
"What is your dream for your children and grandchildren?"
Her responese sent my thoughts to the 1940's.
80 years ago, my grandparents were among the 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry who were unjustly discriminated by their own country.
The horrific attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th 1941 left all Japanese living in the United States targeted as a threat just from the color of their skin.
Humiliated and saddened, they were banished from their homes and businesses to live in makeshift barracks and internment camps for over four years.
This ugly truth in American history has reverberated through generations and unfortunately, still continues today.
As a Gosei (五世, "fifth generation") Japanese American I'm proud of my heritage and am committed to live my grandmother's legacy.
Reshare this post today and ask someone this question.
"a bee stings the horn of an ox"
Two weeks into 2021 and I find myself already looking back.
Exhausted, lost, relentless may not fully describe the feelings last year imparted on us.
lost in the world
stand firm and charge
an ox's devotion
…
Two weeks into 2021 and I find myself already looking back.
Exhausted, lost, relentless may not fully describe the feelings last year imparted on us.
While 2020 generally draws negative connotations, focusing on areas in my control has realigned my daily self-foundation for growth, perseverance and intentional acts of kindness moving forward.
The late Basketball Coach John Wooden often said "Make each day your masterpiece."
In kind, I say "Make 2021 your masterpiece."
Haiku is more than a Japanese poem
What comes to your mind when you think of haiku?
From time haiku 俳句; evoke stories of the natural world.
Short form poetry followed the seasons not trends.
When new media manufactured "value" in likes, follows, and what's newest, we lost touch with reflecting and stopped appreciating what's present in our lives.
I believe introspection is everything and am looking forward to sharing more slow poetry with you.
Read them, cherish them, pass them down.
Inspire intentional introspection.