Collected moments
Stories of becoming, belonging, and finding home between two countries.
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Having lived in Japan for more than a decade and being married to an American citizen, I have had the opportunity to experience and observe the stark contrast in language, expression, individuality, and uniformity as distinctive characteristics of both countries. In Japan, people are taught to follow the rules without question, maintain 平和 (heiwa)—peace—through conformity, and […]
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Sa una kay maulaw ko mag bisaya inig naay mga kaila nga Tagalog or mudayo sa dili Bisaya nga lugar kay di ba sa ato sa Pinas murag naay discrimination nga pag bisaya gani murag ubos – pobre, bugo, gahi ug dila unsa pa na diha. Ug mahadlok pud mu English kay mali mali grammar, […]
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When I was younger, I used to feel embarrassed speaking Bisaya whenever there were Tagalog speakers around or whenever I traveled to places where people didn’t speak Bisaya. Back home in the Philippines, there’s this stereotype that if you speak Bisaya, people think you’re poor, uneducated, or that your accent sounds “rough.” You know what […]
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If you had a choice, where would you live? In the Philippines or in another country? Why? Some people say the Philippines is a great place to retire. It’s affordable, warm all year round, people speak English, and there’s an abundance of fresh fruits and other natural resources. Many foreigners choose to retire there because […]
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I came to Japan in the spring of 2011 when my sister who lives in Japan invited me for a month-long spring vacation. During my stay (and even up to now) there are several…
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1. Teachers in Japan do not have a permanent school assignment. They change schools. They can only teach in one school for three to four years the longest. They have to move to another…
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07
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Oishi (Yummy) and arigatou (thank you). When I came to visit for one month in 2011, I learned a few more words. Words that are used in everyday life: ohayou gozaimasu (good morning) konichiwa…
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08
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What to give/receive In the Philippines, Valentine’s is more on flowers – roses as the main star. With matching teddy bears and chocolates on the side. And love letters too. In Japan, it’s mainly…
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09
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1. Japanese Sense of Nationalism First of all, I observed that Japanese people are very nationalistic. They love everything about their country and they are very proud to be Japanese. I am sure I…
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both countries. There are few similarities and many differences between Philippines and Japan celebrating New Year’s Day that I would like to share according to my observation and experience. Decorations and Preparations In the…
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