In April (about a month ago) I had the luxury of traveling to Japan for the second time in my life. I went with 28 students, 4 chaperones, and 1 travel agent. We spent time in Kyoto, Mt. Fuji, and Tokyo. The experience the second time was very familiar, but also very different. I spent more time trying to hang with the students and be more of presence around them, instead of being a tourist like my first time. Kyoto is always magical. The depth of history and natural beauty of Kyoto is one of a kind, and although it rained again, I still loved being there. I was able to touch the love stone, eat more foods that I haven't tried yet, and wander around more freely. Mt. Fuji was a new aspect of Japan I haven't seen. It was simple, unique, and we were able to enjoy the onsen in natural spring waters. Tokyo itself was okay. It was my first time seeing the city, but it wasn't my favorite. I learned I enjoy the nature side of Japan and smaller unique towns versus city life. The only awesome part is that in Tokyo, there is so much to eat and do. The downside, I didn't do too much like I wanted to. The destination may have been the same, but the journey was entirely different. Which is what I had expected. The most important memories are the ones I keep to myself, and that is okay. As expected, traveling changes you in some shape. Whether it opens your mind to a new world, or in this case an old world. It changes your perspective in who you are and those who surround you. I loved it but also struggled with it at the same time. But time moves on, you live with it, and you let it be in the past. I know I sound vague because it is vague.
Japan once again holds a special place in my mind and in my heart. It is the reason why I lost and found myself. It is where I love and understood that I have to be okay. That my confidence cannot waiver in the midst of confusion. There is more to it than what the eyes may see. There is something there that makes me believe.
Overall, life is a journey. And that has to be enough for me to keep waking up each and every day.