LASTING MEMORIES OF JAPAN
Dear Clarissa
I wanted to leave you this particular photo I took during my time here in Japan. To me it epitomizes all that I have experienced during my time here. This was taken on one of my adventures to Kyoto from the front of a shrine and it is my favorite. When I look at this photo I am reminded of the hospitality that I, a foreigner, have been shown in this ancient land, even though I can’t speak the language. I know that this sculpture has it’s own meaning, but I have attached one of my own.
Each of the figures represents something that I have experienced.
The first stands for nourishment, initially I thought of the food – which I have to say I love – but I have also been enriched by the sharing of knowledge and traditions of Japan. I have found everyone so generous with their time and culture and I feel fortunate to have experienced that.
The second stands for Japan’s natural beauty. I have very much enjoyed arriving at the end of the winter and seeing snow, then watching the cherry blossoms bloom and spread it’s own blanket of colour. I have also enjoyed meeting the wild life and the old forests here, and wish I could see more of the natural history.
The third stands for the prayers, good wishes, love and friendship I have received while I’ve been in Japan. The last is me, filled with the simple joy of a child, for just being here and spending time with you, your friends and the strangers I’ve met along the way.
Love you lots
Kath
