Getting Older?

     I can remember my father telling me that there are certain times when you become more aware of the fact that you are getting older; times when something happens that surprise you with that fact.  That day he had just gotten home from work and he said,  “You can tell you’re getting older when pretty young women stand up and offer you a seat on the bus.”  I guess so.

Japanese and English personal communication

I would like to let everyone know that there is a new Yahoo club set up with the goal of providing a space for Japanese people who are interested in talking to foreigners, to meet English speakers who are interested in Japan and Japanese culture and people.  It is open to anyone, and the language is English.

You can access the club at this address:  http://groups.yahoo.com/group/japengbridge/

There are postings and a chatroom available.  We need some folks to join the club to help get it started and rolling, so if you are interested, why not sign up?

See you there!

A prayer for Japan

The nuclear emergency in Japan is dying out of the news, but it is actually still quite serious.  Japan has been suffering from the world wide economic crisis, and also from a very strong Yen.  That is not good news for an exporting country like Japan,

The Story of Mr. Lee

I’d like to tell you the story of Mr. Lee, of Taiwan.  I met Mr. Lee in a hospital in Kaohsiung, in the south of Taiwan.  I was doing volunteer work there, bringing books around to the patients in the various wards, hoping to brighten their day up with a smile, a kind word, and an offer of a magazine or book to read.

A funeral

Last week I attended a funeral.  The 30 year old son of a dear friend was hit by a car while riding his bicycle, and died after 10 days in a coma.  I haven't been to a lot of funerals, but at my age, I suppose that will be gradually changing in future years.

A Doubly Sad Story

     For several days I have been seeing mentions in the news of a recently released video from the US military in Iraq.  The video is taken from a US helicopter, and shows the crew shooting civilians, including a Reuters cameraman and two children.  When I read various mentions of the video, it sounded like the soldiers were deliberately shooting civilians for amusement.  However today I took a few minutes to search out the video and watch it; it was certainly an education for me.

A Valentine Story

     Happy Valentine's day!  I'm not so much into "hearts and flowers" stuff, but I like the idea that there is a day that is special to celebrate love.  Here's a cute story:


     Even at the age of 75, Thelma was very vivacious and full of life. When her husband passed away, her children suggested that she move to a "senior living community." A gregarious and life-loving person, Thelma decided to do so.  Read the whole story here: