Farewell to Japan

A life overseas can be difficult. It can be more difficult when moving to a new country, with its different culture and language - implies an even greater life change. But it is also one of my greatest experience. The past three-and-a-half years in Japan, instead of a one-way cultural shock, I'd say to some extend we have engaged in some cross-cultural experience. There are so many people to thank - good friends and good people for making this journey memorable.

Foreign students get home sick (although that is not so much of my case). I have been placed with the Takahashi as my host family since April 2002. My japanese host family did not ask me to help them do chores. I didn't live with them since my stay here was not quite short term. Very fortunate to have them - spending time with them (especially my host mum) was truly enjoyable and rewarding.

As some say, I was too frequent a traveler. Others, I have spent too much time blogging. Quite hardworking I am although not that brilliant. I am much indebted to the Japanese Government for awarding me the scholarship (a big chunk of money) for full time studies in Kyoto University and a life time experience.

The study of food science at the molecular level was indeed interesting (no doubt tough). I spent two years manipulating DNAs, expressing food proteins with bacterias (and also insect cells) and finally earning a Master degree. I have learnt a great deal in bio-techniques from my teachers. All of us (lab members) went through a periodic of ups and downs. And some had hard times getting good results. But we often bounced back from those downs after a good holiday break together. Recently, 6 months after I started my doctoral program, with more than enough reasons, I decided to quit - I am offered with better opportunities.

I will miss them. Dorm living - overall a great experience (some good and some bad) and some great company. Students from different continents and cultures, of different races and colors, different social strata, religions and outlooks live together (for sure not without any cultural misunderstandings). Expected - since living as part of a big family is not always easy. I have enjoyed the sharings, the many parties and outings, and most importantly - the friendship.

Being house parents (and dorm staffs) can sometimes a taunting task. The task more complex and difficult than one might imagine. Good food, clean environment - I appreciate all they have done.

Well, well ... I am not (so) fluent with my nihongo. This year, I did have a japanese friend for some serious language exchange, but mastering a new language is not all that easy. Perhaps I am just not very good with language. I have to be careful not to forget it after returning to my home country.

My choice of a dentist - I went upon recommendation of a thai friend. My dentist and his family are very kind and friendly.

Good friends enrich our lives. Asian friends and some from far off places - they have made my good times better and bad times bearable. I have learnt alot from them. And we often hang out together - coping together being a gaijin.

I wish everyone good luck. And also to thank blog readers - this blog will be one year old soon.

Wishing to be friends is quick work, but friendship is slow-ripening fruit. -- Aristotle.