Conformity is Required... But Anything Goes

Japan is a nation of tensions. In a nation where almost any outfit goes, there is at the same time such an overwhelming sense of conformity that bonds the communities and nations. Society continues to promote conformity, especially in schools and companies, but there is a growing individualism stirring beneath the surface.  

Kindness is Next to Godliness

In a society with such high levels of suicide and depression, there remains an overwhelming spirit of kindness and generosity, especially among the elderly generation. Kindnesses and generosities received by my young family continue to overwhelm and encourage me to be a more giving and kind person. 

The Land of "kawaii"

Kawaii means cute in Japanese and can be applied to almost anything- people, kids, clothes, or any of the many characters that are used throughout the country. From road signs, restaurant menus, tv commercials, to town mascots... the message here is that "kawaii" wins.