The Beauty of Going the Extra Mile

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This week’s issue blends heart, travel, and purpose. From the everyday grace of Japanese culture to one unforgettable act of kindness in Kyoto, this edition celebrates what it means to bring care, respect, and beauty into every moment — just like you do every day.

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🌸 Lessons from Japan That Still Inspire Me 31 Years Later

This week marks thirty-one years since I left Japan after living there for about eighteen months— I promised myself this would be my last Japan story for a while, but first let me share some special memories.

Beyond learning the language, Japan taught me lessons that shaped my view of life, family, and beauty in everyday things:

1. Food as an Art Form
Even homemade meals are presented with artistry. Each plate looks like a piece of art—thoughtful, balanced, and beautiful. When my kids were growing up, I carried that tradition by shaping their rice, decorating pancakes, and I still try to do so, if I have extra time.

2. A Deep Appreciation for Nature
From tranquil gardens to golden rice fields, Japan’s natural beauty is breathtaking. During Sakura season (cherry blossoms), people slow down, gather in parks, and simply be in nature. That mindful connection stayed with me, so much that I have a Japanese rock garden in my back yard.

3. Family Honor and Respect
Family names carry deep meaning. Honoring one’s parents and ancestors is woven into daily life—a reminder that our actions reflect those we love. Family History is important to them, about your family history?

4. Work Ethic and Mutual Respect
In Japan, excellence is a team effort. People take pride in their work, striving for harmony and improvement. Respect isn’t just spoken—it’s lived through gestures, tone, and care for others.

5. Finding Beauty in Simplicity
Homes are often small, yet everything inside feels intentional. Each item serves a purpose and adds beauty. I never saw clutter—just calm spaces filled with gratitude. My Japanese room is the cleanest and most organized inside my home 🙂 

6. Honesty and Integrity
Once, I lost my wallet while biking. The next day, I retraced my path and found it carefully placed near a sidewalk—untouched, every yen and my ID and credit card still there. That moment spoke volumes about the heart of the Japanese people.

Japan will always hold a piece of my heart. During my time there, I volunteered at orphanages and nursing homes, learning even basic Japanese Sign Language to connect with remarkable young adults. While awareness of autism and disabilities wasn’t as strong then, I saw deep compassion in the way people cared for their elders and loved ones.

It truly was an experience of a lifetime, and its lessons still inspire me to find beauty, purpose, and kindness wherever I go. 🌸

• 🪞 Pause and reflect: What simple beauty around you can you notice or create today?

• 💬 Share your wisdom: What cultural experience has shaped your outlook on life? Reply and tell me — I’d love to hear it.

• 📸 Create your moment: Arrange your next meal with a touch of beauty — Japanese style!

One of my favorite winter clothes is a Hanten, Is a house coat that is cozy and warm. It’s a great Christmas gift!

✈️ Highlights from Osaka, Kyoto & Nara – Japan’s Cultural Treasures

Japan has quickly become a favorite destination for travelers seeking beauty, history, and serenity. Whether you’re exploring modern Osaka, historic Kyoto, or the peaceful charm of Nara, you’ll find a perfect mix of culture, family fun, and unforgettable experiences. If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting the country that taught me so much about beauty and respect here are my favorite highlights for sensory friendly travels.

🌆 OSAKA – The City of Energy and Flavor

1. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
One of the world’s largest and most fascinating aquariums, home to captivating sea life and immersive exhibits.
🔗 Visit Kaiyukan

2. Universal Studios Japan
A favorite among families, this theme park brings beloved movie worlds to life — from Super Mario World to Minions Park.
🔗 Explore USJ

3. Osaka Castle
A magnificent historic landmark surrounded by lush park grounds perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
🔗 Visit Osaka Castle

4. Umeda Sky Building
An architectural marvel with its Floating Garden Observatory, offering panoramic views of Osaka’s skyline.
🔗 Learn more

5. Dotonbori District
Known for its neon lights, street food, and lively energy, Dotonbori is Osaka’s entertainment heart — perfect for exploring at night.**Flashing lights may not be sensory friendly.
🔗 Discover Dotonbori

🏯 KYOTO – Where Tradition Meets Timeless Beauty

🔗 Official Kyoto Guide

1. Fushimi Inari Taisha
Walk through the iconic vermilion torii gates that wind through the hills — one of Kyoto’s most photographed spots.
🔗 Visit Fushimi Inari

2. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Set on a hillside, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.
🔗 Kiyomizu-dera Temple

3. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A dazzling Zen temple covered in gold leaf and surrounded by peaceful gardens — one of my personal favorites!
🔗 Kinkaku-ji

4. Nijo Castle
Step back in time with a visit to this historic castle, where intricate interiors reveal Kyoto’s feudal history.
🔗 Nijo Castle

🎎 A Note on Geisha and Maiko Etiquette

A Geisha is a professional artist trained in dance, music, and tea ceremony. A Maiko is an apprentice learning these refined arts.
If you see them walking through Kyoto’s district, remember: they are often on their way to work. Please do not stop them for photos. You may take pictures from a respectful distance — but if they raise a fan to cover their face, it means they prefer privacy. Let’s help preserve this beautiful cultural tradition with grace and respect.

🦌 NARA – Serenity, Temples, and Gentle Deer

1. Tōdai-ji Temple
Home to one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world, this temple is both awe-inspiring and deeply peaceful.
🔗 Visit Tōdai-ji

2. Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Famous for its thousands of lanterns, this shrine glows with spiritual beauty.
🔗 Kasuga Taisha Shrine

3. Nara Park
Meet Nara’s friendly free-roaming deer — a favorite for families and photographers. But beware: these playful creatures might sneak a snack from your bag!
🔗 Learn about Nara Park

🧭 Travel Tips for a Respectful Visit

1. Photography: Some temples and shrines prohibit photos. Look for signs and follow local customs.

2. Shoes: Remove shoes when required. Watch how locals do it to follow respectfully.

3. Quiet Reverence: Sacred sites are peaceful places. Silence speaks volumes.

4. Cleansing Rituals: In onsen (bathhouses) or shrines, cleansing is part of the experience — follow the local rituals.

5. Umbrellas: It’s common to leave umbrellas at entrances — and they’ll still be there when you return! Honesty is part of daily life in Japan. Please don’t take umbrellas that aren’t yours, even if they appear to be “shared.”

🌸 Final Thought

Japan’s magic lies not just in its temples and gardens, but in the quiet respect and care woven into everyday life. Whether you’re feeding deer in Nara, walking under cherry blossoms, or admiring a tea ceremony in Kyoto — you’re experiencing a culture that finds beauty in simplicity.

• ✈️ Start planning: Which of these places would you love to visit first — Osaka, Kyoto, or Nara?

• 💡 Save this guide: Bookmark it for your future Japan adventure or share it with a friend who loves travel.

• 🧭 Travel kindly: When you visit new places, try practicing quiet respect — it’s the universal language of kindness.

🌸 The Extra Mile — Lessons from a Rainy Day in Kyoto

My husband once promised to take me back to Japan. We even booked a cruise that was supposed to dock there on my exact 40th birthday — but nature had other plans. A massive tsunami struck Tokyo, and our Japan stops were replaced with visits to other beautiful countries.

The following year, we finally made it. Returning after eighteen years felt like stepping into a dream. I was thrilled to show my husband and kids all my favorite places and even spent an entire day reconnecting with a dear Japanese friend I’d kept in touch with since my time there.

One of our most memorable days was in Kyoto. On sunny days, the city glows with color — Geisha and Maiko dressed in exquisite kimonos, streets alive with culture and grace. But that day, the skies opened up, and the rain poured down. Many attractions closed early, so we took shelter in a tiny curry restaurant with only a few tables.

A young woman ran the entire place by herself — cooking, serving, and smiling through it all. As we finished our meal, I asked her how far it was to the bus stop that would take us to the train station. She paused, then said softly, “I don’t know… but I’ll go find out.”

Before I could respond, she grabbed an umbrella and dashed out into the rain, leaving us alone in her restaurant!

Minutes later, she returned, out of breath and dripping wet, clutching a small piece of paper. On it, she had written the bus times and directions — she had run half a mile to make sure we could find our way. Then, she offered us her umbrella. We kindly declined, but my heart was deeply touched.

That moment reminded me of what I love most about Japan: trust, integrity, and genuine care. Their hospitality goes beyond service — it’s humanity in action.

As I think about it now, I can’t help but draw a parallel to parents and caregivers — people who, rain or shine, keep showing up. Parents and caregivers go the extra mile every single day. Through exhaustion, storms, and long nights… parents and caregivers keep showing up.

So, to all of you who tirelessly care for your loved ones — thank you. Thank you for running through the rain, for running after your eloping child to ensure safety, for every sleepless night and early morning. You bring beauty to this world in quiet, unseen ways.

Like the graceful Geisha and Maiko, the world often sees only the polished side — not the effort, dedication, or lonely moments behind it all.
But you are a masterpiece... even if sometimes you feel like just a piece of the master. 😉

💫 Reflection Question

• ☔ Reflect: When was the last time someone went the extra mile for you — or you did for them?

• 💌 Encourage someone: Forward this story to a friend or caregiver who deserves to be reminded that their efforts matter.

• 🌈 Join the conversation: How do you find beauty in your daily “rainy days”? Hit reply or comment — your story may inspire someone else.

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