It seems that the last editorial I did here was rather well accepted or at least I don’t recall any threats being made against my life. So with that I thought perhaps it was time for another edition of Alex’s Mad lunitic Ramblings known simply as The Editorial.

I thought for this editorial it was important to talk about something that’s close to all our hearts: Friends and the people who mean the most to us.

And the point of this is for YOU the READER to provide feedback so that hopefully when we all throw ideas into this pot, that maybe it will give us something more to think about!

For me, everything changed when I found an interest in all things Japanese. It began with the study of culture and food. How I loved to go to the restaurent! With that, came the study of its history and its language. With that came the search for a Japanese girlfriend. (Naturally!) With that came the adventures of actually going there, experiencing it all and seeing it for myself. With that came the search for something more… And the search continues on.

Yet its been the lessons I’ve learned from the Japanese people I’ve met in Japan and Canada that really tought me what I believe the Meaning of Life to be…

And so here are some lessons I’ve learned over the years from friends and people who’ve made an impact. I’m hoping that as you read this (Yes, YOU THE READER) will be kind enough to share with us some of the important life lessons you’ve learned from Japanese family or friends. Ok I’ll go first.

First from my good friend Reo I learned that “life must be enjoyed like a good stiff drink of beer or shochu. And don’t stop till every drop is gone.”

From my old roommate Yukie, I learned to “Be cool. No matter what. If you ask for vodka and they give you water, just roll with it“.

From an old friend Aki I learned “To live life to the fullest. Enjoy this moment right now because it will be gone before you know it“.

From my friend Shinobu I learned “Truth is much more cruel than our fate. But somehow we manage through the tough times“.

From my wife’s mother I learned “There is no one answer for anything Japanese. Everything is much more complicated then it seems.”

From my wife I’ve learned “ It’s not what the meaning of life is, but what brings meaning to our lives thats important”.

Ok, now its your turn…