Land of the Rising Sun
A land that I dream to visit ever since I was a child. It was a dream that I thought that it was untouchable and unreachable. A dream that cannot become reality. Like many other Americans, our knowledge of Japan and the people is mainly from the media. Popular media such as kaiju films, anime, and the unrealistic idealization that Japan is stuck in history. This idealization of Japanese people promotes stereotyping and racism, the unhealthy belief gained by false information.
It is because of the experiences and interactions in Japan, that I met such wonderful people and it open my mind, showing how much I was hidden in the dark. I was so hidden in the dark, that my knowledge was overshadowed by flawed expectations. Expectations from false information from brief history books and the media. I grew to love the knowledge and culture as I get to know Japan and its people. I even learned some indigenous people exist in Japan that are just as similar to my own indigenous culture.
They face daily challenges with their identity and history being at risk to be erased. I understand this issue since I face these challenges myself. I become more empathetic toward the people of Japan, as a Native American woman, I had previously and continued to face racism, stereotyping, and the miss information of my indigenous culture. I learned that the city of Hokkaido and Tokyo, are just cities where people work daily and go outside to take a breath of fresh air. I got to see the daily life of a family in Japan as well.
A bond was created despite the language and culture barriers, the host family reminded me of my own. Full of laughter, comfort, and kindness. I believe America has a lot to learn from Japan. To change the perception to more of “we” instead of “I.” To start to feel more empathy for others no matter what their job status is, and treat others with respect. I even gained a pin pal, who I remain in contact with through email.
Every night while in Tokyo or Hokkaido, I go beyond my comfort zone as a foreigner and go into shops, and buy souvenirs. It helps me understand the language barrier and how I rely on my observation and assumptions to interact with a cashier. It is quite nerve-wracking and uncomfortable but I believe despite how uncomfortable it is, it helped me understand what it is like to only be the small percentage in a foreign land, that speaks a different language.
These small journeys every night, makes me feel empathy toward the people that come to the United States, feeling nervous and uncertain in a foreign land. In conclusion, despite the language barrier and the constant misunderstandings, I was faced with understanding and compassion in Japan. I felt so welcomed and I am forever thankful to all the people that took myself and others on this journey, to create a bond between Japan and America. I will continue to remember this beautiful experience for the rest of my life.
