~:[CH8 - Day 212]:~ Bumper to Bumper

~:[CH8 - Day 212]:~ Bumper to Bumper

I sat on the freeway as the clock neared midnight, stuck in bumper to bumper traffic. It was the end of a long day that started 18 hours earlier. It was a day of walking through crowds and waiting in lines, feeling as if I was stuck on any major freeway in Los Angeles. However, in that experience, I ran into people I knew, had experienced I wouldn't have had otherwise and created memories that would last long beyond the fatigue that I will carry with me from the day. Our lives are often like these traffic filled freeways. There will be moments we can easily become mad or frustrated, or rather, we can slow down and enjoy what's around us. We can communicate, we can look around, and we can try our best to create a plan to navigate through all of this traffic. By days end, we stood staring at the beautiful displays of the World of Color, as the water came splashing down on us in the wet zone. It could have been the moment that broke the camel's back, but instead, it was another joyous moment, as we chatted about the wonderful display that we had just saw. Life is full of pitfalls, but also many opportunities. The differences between the two are the size of a hairline, as in life, it seems like we are always walking on the edge of a cliff. We often have the choice of how things end up, but it's always based on our decisions and how we do things. Today was definitely one to celebrate, as despite the traffic that ensued at night's end, I am surrounded by nothing, but wonderful memories that will surround me as I take my slumber. 

~:[CH8 - Day 211]:~ Isolated on a Trail

~:[CH8 - Day 211]:~ Isolated on a Trail

I walked along this desolate trail. It seemed as if nobody was around for awhile, as everyone faded in the distance earlier. I was able to enjoy the tranquility that came with it, but before I knew it, I was once again coming across person after person. I was curious about the stories of every one of these people, as you wonder what stories each of the people have to tell. I am not someone to openly start a conversation with a stranger unless a situation calls for it. People disagree that I am like that, but the reality is that it's me. I rather wander unnoticed through a crowd than gather in a large group talking. Regardless, even when that's your goal and you try to isolate yourself on a trail, you'll find that people will gravitate towards you and start up a conversation. Whether a simple hello or a nod, you'll soon realize you're not alone even in a place that once was so desolate. If we open our eyes, we will see the multitude of people waiting to help us when the time comes, as sometimes life itself feels like that desolate path. We may have moments when we feel alone, but remember there are so many people who care about you whether you see them around you or not. I have to learn from my own words and be able to open up more and more vocal with my thoughts, but throughout my life, I've always seen that no matter how isolated my road may be, people will always show up when you need them most. 

~:[CH8 - Day 210]:~ Simple But Sweet

~:[CH8 - Day 210]:~ Simple But Sweet

Most of you who follow me know that I like to cook. Often times, I get a response like "that's so fancy" but a meal doesn't have to be expensive to fit that WOW factor. Sometimes, something so simple can make your mouth water. I played around with the chicken ramen I got as part of my birthday gift. I normally don't get that type of ramen, but since I had it, I figured I'd use it. I decided model my recipe after a ramen I had in Japan, a yuzu ramen. While I didn't have chicken to top off this dish, I used some shrimp I had lying around along with load of other Japanese sides. This is what I came out with. I think when you think about life itself, it's these types of simple things that provide you with some of those WOW factor moments that you never thought you'd get out of something so simply, like a day at home. You don't have to go out to a fancy restaurant or place to make something amazing, but rather, put a few fine touches on things that you have at your fingertips. On a tight budget? Perfect, keep it simple, but put in the time (or at least the thought) into your final creation.

~:[CH8 - Day 209]:~ Breaking Through

~:[CH8 - Day 209]:~ Breaking Through

There were a number of close games the past few days for the Angels, even having one last until the 16th inning, however, today was the one that they broke through. Under the blazing sun (which actually cooled down a bit today), the Angels came ready to battle it out. They did so as the game was tied 4-4 and it was closed out with a walk off home run. After the frustrations of being so close, that break through is quite the amazing feeling and can bring on other great moments. While there are still many ongoing struggles that will arise, have moments like these are ones that can bring on momentum and change. The heat eventually subsided, as it was fun to celebrate with those around who can cheer, as they finally had the chance to have one of those break throughs.

~:[CH8 - Day 208]:~ Under the Sun

~:[CH8 - Day 208]:~ Under the Sun

Running at Clark Park can be okay, but when the temperatures heat up, it's quite the challenge and Saturday proved that as the athletes had to battle though the agony of this place. Regardless, they did and made a small step forward on this journey under the sun. We continued the day with a wonderful day at the park, as the team played a number of games and topped it off with a corn hole tournament and a Super Smash Brothers tournament, both of which were successful. It ended up that we had just enough time to do both. It was great that most of those who came, stayed the entire time and while it was a last minute add to our schedule with relatively few things structured into it, the athletes made the most of these moments. With the shelter overhead, the athletes were protected by the sun, by still continued the progress they began making earlier in the day. Life is about these steps and while the sun may be beating down on your or not, you need to keep pushing forward, showing the person you are or the one you are trying to become. 

~:[CH8 - Day 207]:~ A Whole Different Land

~:[CH8 - Day 207]:~ A Whole Different Land

Storm troopers came marching along in such warm temperatures. I came expecting a massive crowd, but was surprised to see a moderate  one all around the park. The "ghost town" actually was fairly true as I wandered through Disneyland, realizing that it was less crowded than usual. It could be the new passes, price system, or even more space, but regardless, it was pretty awesome. I wandered through the park, took photographs, and even was the pilot on the new ride. We actually did a pretty good job on the ride. It paralleled to the experience of a few visitors from Japan who are staying in the US for a bit. It made me wonder, what does this "different land" look like when you come, especially when the language spoken is different. It was a day full of different lands, however it is in these experiences that we find our ability to explore and learn on one of life's many great adventures.

~:[CH8 - Day 206]:~ Learning the Ropes

~:[CH8 - Day 206]:~ Learning the Ropes

One of the coolest thing about going to these competitions and holding events is that these athletes begin to experience things for the first time. They begin learning the ropes and the hope is that the develop into a stronger runner and more importantly a person of good character who is always able to put their best foot forward. Together, we gathered, we learned and we began that process of growth. It wasn't a great racing day, but they battled and together, we celebrated with one of our largest post-race groups ever. Our numbers have been impressive this summer and add a table for 35 to our list of those impressive numbers. There is work to do as they learn the ropes, but I am confident we will get there as we keep working at it. 

~:[CH8 - Day 205]:~ More Than Just Another Birthday

~:[CH8 - Day 205]:~ More Than Just Another Birthday

Sometimes, there comes a point where birthdays change from looking forward to the party and gifts, to the celebration with friends, to the day you want to forget them all together. However, as life changes, so do the things that make those days like birthday's special. Even Jordan seemed to know it as he gravitated towards his dad to celebrate together over a wonderful day. My brother got an extra special gift with the Clippers announcing their new star additions to the roster, but I know that it was these precious moments that became even more special. If this happened just a few years back, this discussion would only be around the excitement of this conference, but times changes and instead, we focus on this precious moment that show it was more than just a birthday. To my brother who has always watched over me, I love you. I hope that you enjoy this special day and these special moments, because as while times change, I am glad that the distance between us did not. I have loved working with you and hope that we will celebrate many more of these "more than just another birthdays" in the future. You never know what life is going to throw your way, but you surely can recognize when life throws you these special moments that truly will be unforgettable. Happy birthday oniisan! 

~:[CH8 - Day 204]:~ How Quickly the Tide Will Turn

~:[CH8 - Day 204]:~ How Quickly the Tide Will Turn

I've always approached life with a bit of caution. I like to have a backup plan in case things go awry, however, I understand that you can't always approach life with anxiety. Is it truly anxiety or being paranoid or is it being prepared? I've always found myself never getting too comfortable knowing how things change so quickly and today was somewhat of a reminder of that; a lesson from mother nature. The skies gave way to some droplets as the skies looked fierce and angry, the blue skies peeked through and by day's end, it was baking in the 90s. What a drastic change! If anyone said this would be the case, I would have thought they were pulling my chain, but truly, it changed so dramatically. While the day itself was fairly mediocre, I still thought about how much variance there is in life. When you think all is set to go, you hit that bump in the road that throws it off track. Don't hesitate, but also don't live so carefree that you don't think about the plan B. Sometimes, we can be so focused and confident in our goals, but even so, it's always nice to have a backup plan, as you never know how things will change. Today, there was much change, but who knows what tomorrow will bring. The same story goes for life, which is why it's always nice to be ready for any weather that comes our way.

~:[CH8 - Day 203]:~ The Rise

~:[CH8 - Day 203]:~ The Rise

Every year, I have to work on a new theme and design for Mammoth, the Great Cow Run and the season. It's great to have people around me to help me figure out ideas for it, but it keeps my life interesting as well, as I have to constantly search for things that make sense, connect, and ultimately impact the minds of those around us. I think this year's theme is something that all of us can relate to. We all have a shining light within us and it's just a matter of time before we let that light go to light up the world around us. Let's do the search within us and find that light and not be afraid to show it off to the world. 

~:[CH8 - Day 202]:~ Discovery

~:[CH8 - Day 202]:~ Discovery

I had a lot more work to do today, of course, I left some time for myself. I edited some photos, caught up with a few friends and even had time to get back to poetry. I used to write almost daily, but as the times get busy, you take care of other things and the things you want to do get pushed into the background. Regardless, Sunday became one of those days where I didn't do all that I could've done in a day (in terms of going out), which resulted in a highly productive day (in terms of work). By night's end, I closed out almost everything I wanted to finish and I could smile just a bit knowing that I reached the end of my to-do list for the day. Getting off to a great start for the weekend is always a good thing and I am hoping that it's a sign of the great things to come.

~:[CH8 - Day 201]:~ Having a Ball

~:[CH8 - Day 201]:~ Having a Ball

I've been getting the summer pass the last few years and this year was no different. On a day where I had to try to drag myself out of bed for practice, I also got to meet up with people, vchat, run some errands, and even get in a few games of bowling. I like the days where it's pretty open to relax and while there are things to do, sometimes, you just need to set it a aside for a bit and give yourself some time. Doing just that, I had time to bowl and even grabbed a late night boba and had a chat. There are so many great things in this world to enjoy, whether out on an adventure or simply stuck in the house, you just have to be willing to open up your eyes to see it. Whether getting dressed up to go out or if you're in your PJs, find a way to make each day fun by having a ball. Anyone want to join me?

~:[CH8 - Day 200]:~ The Spark of a Bigger Flame

~:[CH8 - Day 200]:~ The Spark of a Bigger Flame

Sometimes there is a moment that you realize that a moment is a part of something greater. As in the place I despise most, I saw something that I was happy about, a bright future. One after another, the athletes rolled in and came to enjoy the bonfire and by night's end, we surrounded the entire pit with one of the largest bonfires our team has ever had. From freshmen to alumni, everyone was truly represented and we truly saw the beginning of this year's ohana. While the day didn't start off on the right foot as all the pits were taken beachside, a change in scenery ended up not being all that bad and led to something greater than I could have ever imagined. Sometimes, it just takes a spark to light a greater flame and I definitely saw that today. I was proud of how the event ended up and as miserable as I was at the beach, it was worth all of the misery I suffered through to see the athletes come together in the end. On a landmark day of the year, it truly was a day to remember. 

~:[CH8 - Day 199]:~ The Obstacles Against Us

~:[CH8 - Day 199]:~ The Obstacles Against Us

There was the wind, the hill and of course gravity working against the team as they trained along the hills today. I always think about what is against us when we take something on, but not in order to create anxiety, rather, to make a plan. I think we don't always realize what's against us, while others know every little obstacle in their way. I think it's good to know the challenges ahead of us, but also good to know that you can overcome them. The challenges were no match for our athletes as they had one of the best workouts of the season, battling the conditions and looking strong as they did repeat after repeat. They could have stopped, but they continued on, pushing themselves, not afraid of the obstacles working against them. When we have that kind of mindset, we definitely will be able to overcome any obstacle in our way.

~:[CH8 - Day 198]:~ Music to My Ears

~:[CH8 - Day 198]:~ Music to My Ears

I think one of the coolest things about my job is to see countless students who move on to greater things. Whether it's an amazing job or opportunity, award or accolade, or seeing their dream become a reality. Earlier today I was informed of an alumni having their group reach a milestone after years of hard work together. They don't always get as much promo as other groups, so this breakthrough was quite amazing and I also want to do the same for them. I closed out the night chatting with an alumni and as I did, it helped me realize just how many opportunities I have to be proud of all those who I have worked with in the past. It makes me so happy to see people succeed and while I am not always able to congratulate people on what they've accomplished, I hope that everyone knows how proud I am of them. I have been looping the top song from this album, Time of Our Life throughout the day, as there is something quite catchy to it, but the title says it all, as truly all that I have been able to experience thus far in life has allowed me, day in and day out, to have the time of my life. As I heard the progress of more alumni and have the chance to sit down with them, I know that their stories will truly be music to my ears. Check out Day6 on iTunes or catch their music video on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnS_jn2uibs&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR0fFGDKnvFHLTpkRx5mDieBrwfcpYX7v1OYMcSc12bII0vkA2Hg2ezWD0w) 

~:[CH8 - Day 197]:~ As Routine As It Gets

~:[CH8 - Day 197]:~ As Routine As It Gets

It's our normal routine. We hit many of the same spots every year trying to fine tune our workouts to best prepare us for the season and this year, we had one of our biggest groups gather at the trail head. It cooled off just enough to make the run through the trails tolerable and the group showed signs of their potential while running through the trails. It's going to be a long summer of training and this is just the beginning of the routine we go through every year. I think life has these routines that we get used to and while it may seem so mundane, in reality, every experience has its variations and today was no different. Life is full of these routines, but just because it is the same, doesn't mean that we don't have to put in our full effort and also that we won't enjoy it. Make the most of these opportunities and chances, as you really never know what these routines will present to you.

~:[CH8 - Day 196]:~ From the Big Screen

~:[CH8 - Day 196]:~ From the Big Screen

I think it would be interesting if we could see a movie of our own lives. What would that movie entail and what would be the focus? As I came out of the television today, I began to think about it. Would it be focused in athletes, MUN, arts or travel? I am not sure where it would lead and what it would be about, but then I would also be curious about the script of others. I think we are so fascinated by seeing others coming from the big screen that sometimes we forget that we are the lead in our own movie. We have the power to change what goes on around us and to write the ending we hope to have. Sure, there are a number of factors that impact that, but the script writers of movies have the same problem. As while in Hollywood, they have the freedom to create sometime so unearthly that we would never be able to do it in our own lives, our story doesn't have to be one that is made to impress others. Let's focus on writing a script that is not made to impress others, rather simply that is made to make ourselves happy. As I continue to wonder what the script of my life would be, for now, I am just enjoying each day of shooting the film of my life. 

~:[CH8 - Day 195]:~ On an Adventure

~:[CH8 - Day 195]:~ On an Adventure

I woke up a bit late because we were cleaning at night, but then I headed out and got a few games in at the alley. I timed it so that I could link up with those who were doing the Entei raid. I think one of the things I realized over time is that I am kind of nomadic with my groups. I don't always do things because others are, rather, I join crowds when they're doing what I'm doing. However, I am not one to open a long, detailed conversation with anyone. Regardless, it became an adventure as I traveled from place to place. running across people I never have seen before and others that I see regularly. One of the things that makes this game so fun is just that, it forces you outside, if you want to have the best account around. You can't really do it from home (legally anyway). As while the day might have been one enjoyed from the comforts of my own room, this day forced me out and I was rewarded by my rise to 40.

~:[CH8 - Day 194]:~ The Spark in Our Lives

~:[CH8 - Day 194]:~ The Spark in Our Lives

It feels like it's been ages since we've seen each other. Times where we would just get together on a whim and hang out and others where we took a long trek somewhere. One thing I realized is that sometimes people thing that it takes something spectacular to find a reason to reconnect, but sometimes they fail to realize that it's more so about the opportunity to reconnect rather than what you're doing. Whether you're in a suit and tie or shorts and a t-shirt, it's about the people you are with and the conversations that are the sparks of our lives that lie ahead. I'm always guilty of thinking that these spectacular things are the ones that will "change" me, but the real change comes not in the "must-get" tickets or the spectacular locations, but rather in simply the simplicity of the connection. Often times we value the time we spend attending an event on where we are headed, like a night at a theater, but the reality is, as you may be able to buy the best seats for that once-in-a-lifetime show, there is no price tag you can put on those family and friends who are the ones that truly put the meaning in your life. On my last adventure in Asia, I cut out a lot of the "amazing experiences" so that I could spend time with my friends, to hear them speak, to see them smile, and to feel that connection that truly spark my life. As chaotic as it was to cook and clean, I am so happy to have another opportunity to see everyone and although I was spread pretty thin, there's no doubt that the evening left me so happy. Thank you again to all those, near and far, who make life amazing and great. As while there are so many great sites to see, worldly treasures and the like, it is no match for the spectacular spark that each of you add to the real show of life. 

~:[CH8 - Day 193]:~ Beyond Explanation

~:[CH8 - Day 193]:~ Beyond Explanation

Sometimes you wonder if it's divine intervention. Normally in a human's life, an intervention from God is not likely. While we have heard of miracles, sometimes, the pieces fall together too well to be a coincidence. Whether or not it was a divine intervention, Friday was quite a miracle. I know firsthand how tough it is to lose a member of a team. The ups and downs of everyone is rough and the need for unity is essential. That moment becomes a make or break for everyone. Somehow, you feel another presence watching over you and while some may say, you're just saying that, things happen that seem as if you've received an assist. Donning the 45 Skagg's jersey, the Angels displayed magnificent hitting, near perfect pitching, and even matched the birth date of their teammate with their first inning runs and the total score (7/13). The win was enough, but to see a two pitcher no hitter thrown when those two athletes are wearing the Skaggs jersey is definitely beyond explanation. There was an angel in the outfield tonight and everyone in stadium and watching the game could feel it. #RIP45

~:[CH8 - Day 192]:~ Another Round

~:[CH8 - Day 192]:~ Another Round

It wasn't the best of pictures, but the day was close to picture perfect. It's always a bit stressful hoping that things work out as they should, but when they do, it makes it even the more special. We had fairly good performances and showed our depth, while the day itself had it's highs from food to relaxation and finishing off the night with some billiards. As routine as the day was, it was great to experience the variations the day had and the familiarity of it all. I finally felt like I was back at home and trying to get back into the rhythm of things. There is a lot to work on in the days ahead, but this round is definitely getting off to a great start. 

~:[CH8 - Day 191]:~ On the Hunt

~:[CH8 - Day 191]:~ On the Hunt

It was scavenger hunt day, one of the favorite days for the athletes. As we headed out to our different locations, the groups tried to bond together and get to know each other. It's a bit difficult to get comfortable with a group of people you just met, but sometimes, you find a way to mesh quicker. As they searched for clues, they may not have realized that the day is more about bonding, that it is about the workout or task at hand. Competing and winning is one thing, but the experience is something they'll remember a lot more. As while I was left exhausted by day's end, passing out on the couch for a bit, it definitely was a joy to see our team out there on the hunt. 

~:[CH8 - Day 190]:~ We're MOOving Along

~:[CH8 - Day 190]:~ We're MOOving Along

Yes, that is similar to our Cow Run theme last year, but how can I help it when it fits so perfectly. Day 2 of practice was absolutely wonderful as the newbies begin to reveal themselves and show who is ALREADY ready to step up. One thing I love is that some athletes show their skills right away, while others slowly build into the season and are ready by CIF. Some of these athletes will have no idea that they are of varsity caliber then all of a sudden, WHAM! One of our favorite days of the year is Chick Fil A's annual customer appreciation day, as it's the easiest dress up day for anyone in cross country. You actually only need to wear your COW RUN shirt to get a free entree, but we pull out the cow suits and show up in style. We did again and got all the same looks we normally do. After a day full of taking care of odds and ends, I grabbed dinner with my former runner/coach and pseudo-son before he headed back home. He will be back, but definitely miss the days of him being around all the time. I came home to a pile of work to do as while having all these new athletes is great, it also means a lot more work on my end. I'll be doing paperwork for awhile, but for now, I'll just keep in mind that it's a good thing. I definitely spotted that. I guest now it's pasture bedtime as it is for me, so I will say goodnight until I find myself on the udder side of midnight.

~:[CH8 - Day 189]:~ First Steps

~:[CH8 - Day 189]:~ First Steps
Just like we look forward to the first steps of a child, on the first day of XC, athletes sometimes come stumbling out of the blocks hoping to get used to it all. It's not an easy thing to do. It's not an easy sport to join and get used to. However, with the right mindset and perseverance, almost anyone can develop into a solid cross country runner if they work at it. We had one of our best first day turnouts in our program's history, which is saying a lot. It's hard to get everything organized and to get cards when this happens, but it leaves you with a good feeling in your heart. Hoping that this trend continues, I am excited to see what is ahead for this group of young athletes. Like the upperclassmen who took these same first steps before, even if in the wrong direction or they fell as they took that first step, I know that with determination, they'll be able to keep striding forward.

~:[CH8 - Day 188]:~ Slow and Steady

~:[CH8 - Day 188]:~ Slow and Steady

I've been trying to get myself back into the swing of things since I got back. I made a slight pledge that I wouldn't do much over the weekend to let myself recover. Of course, there is always work to do and I got right on that work until distractions came my way. It's amazing how productive I can be in a month, week, day or even hour, but I am completely a Gemini, as I can also be completely unproductive for a month, week, day or even hour. Strangely enough, I found just enough energy to piece together what I needed to do, slowly and steadily. I could have done so much more, met some people, and felt productive by day's end, but today was also my last day of summer, as season begins for me tomorrow. It's a great day when that comes, but it also means that rest will slowly go out the window. 

~:[CH8 - Day 187]:~ Our Virtual Reality

~:[CH8 - Day 187]:~ Our Virtual Reality

You can dream of places far and wide, but until you actually step foot into that place, you live in a world you cannot truly experience. As we venture into a world where we can travel thousands of miles without leaving our bedroom, we sometimes can miss out on the opportunities that await us. As I began to wrap up everything from my last trip, I've been lucky to experience all that I've seen, but never experienced. While this trip seemed to be an opportunity to catch up with friends and meet new ones rather than a vacation, it was amazing to experience the true realities that exist beyond the virtual spaces that we are so connected to. As I now do some work to wrap up some of the work that I received over the course of the trip, I am so happy to know that I've made my connect to people who are so distant, as while we will only be able to have digital conversations for a bit of time, our relationships have changed due to our opportunities to meet face to face. The reality is, whether is tens of miles or thousands of miles, going out and experiencing rather than simply sitting behind a screen and connecting with the digital version has a distance that is immeasurable. The realities of life are something that nothing on this world wide web can truly teach you. Strangely, I sit here sorting my way through all the files I have to work on over the coming weeks as I once again lock myself away from the world, but with each file, my experiences the past few weeks give me something tangible that I can relate to. Luck gave me the opportunities I was presented on this trip, but the fact that I went out and took that opportunity helped me discover so much. There is a sadness that resides within me as I have once again left behind a place that I so dearly love, as while I love being home, the new realities I have discovered keep me yearning to discover more. It's only a matter of time. 

~:[CH8 - Day 186]:~ Delivery

~:[CH8 - Day 186]:~ Delivery

No longer were my messages being sent from abroad, as I was finally home. After taking care of some errands, I caught up with a friend, trying to get back to life as it was before I left. It's never easy to do. However, you try your best in order to do so and hopefully find a way to get things back on track. While my sleep schedule is off still and I know that adjustments need to be made, it was also nice to not worry about a thing and just chill. Of course, while most of the day was just an adjustment, the best delivery of the day came in the form of an update of the Clipper's new signing. The Internet went crazy as news broke that we would now be bringing Kawhi and PG. An unexpected thrill overcame me and was the cherry on top of the day. While not much can top reconnecting with friends and being in the comfort of your own home, this was a close second. 

~:[CH8 - Day 185]:~ In the Skies

~:[CH8 - Day 185]:~ In the Skies

When you take a late afternoon flight from Asia, it tends to be one of the longest days of your life. As I hit the skies after a morning in Japan, I landed with a full day ahead of me. Yes, I gained five hours in the day after landed (the time I lost when I left). We ventured to Ktown for lunch and had spicy galbi jjim at Sun Nong Dan. It was a great welcome home and much better than the quake that hit when we landed. I ventured home and got some rest before we headed out for the fireworks. I made my trip schedule specifically to be with this boy as he enjoyed his fireworks. While he was knocked out by firework's end, it was great to see him enjoy the beauty in the skies. From the airplane to the ground, the magnificence of the sky is undeniable and it was fitting on a day like today, where we celebrate our independence.

~:[CH8 - Day 184]:~ For All That We Don't Understand

~:[CH8 - Day 184]:~ For All That We Don't Understand

I kept ordering the wrong thing on my last night in Tokyo. I couldn't decipher everything on the menu and so I ended up with a few surprises, some good and some bad. However, I think the intrigue about life is that we don't fully understand life. We're bound to be confused, we're bound to be lost and we're bound to make mistakes. We don't understand a lot of things and that is perfectly okay. It not only is the intrigue about life, but exactly how life should be. As I walk away from Tokyo, it's all that I don't understand that keeps drawing me back. Part of my love of Tokyo is that I want to learn more, grow more and figure out more of what I don't understand. I guess it being part of my roots, it becomes one of the strongest reasons, but there are so many indescribable things that leave me wondering. I know it won't be long before I return and before I can once again greet my wonderful and loving friends in Tokyo, but for now, I am left wondering and trying to figure out all that I don't understand, similar to what I experience daily in life. 

~:[CH8 - Day 183]:~ The Interconnectivity of Life

~:[CH8 - Day 183]:~ The Interconnectivity of Life

The artist Shiota Chiharu had her work the Soul Trembles on display at the Mori Art Museum. It was quite the magnificent display to look at, as the massive interconnectivity of the piece across the room is mind-boggling. Of course, while the piece may be aesthetically pleasing, it also leaves you in deep though. The work is suppose to evoke emotion and as I looked at the piece, it made me think about how our lifelines become so interconnected to the world around us. I saw the veins running through the room as if it were our interactions with people and experiences we encounter along the way. With each meaningful interaction, we then connect a piece of our lives to that and are left with these web that extends in every which direction. Many think of veins as things that run through us and keep blood flowing through our bodies, but those veins are truly external as which each joy, the blood flows easily and with each pain, we lose a piece of ourselves. As much as one may not see it, our actions impact those around us who have attached their vein to us. While we may not realize how important we are to them, they know how important we are to them as they have attached a piece of themselves to you, thinking that you are someone who has had a significant impact on them or will be apart of their lives going forward. As I met new people today and reconnected again with friends of the past, I thought about where I have entrusted those lifelines and hope that I have placed them well. Knowing you all, I am confident with every step I take forward.

~:[CH8 - Day 182]:~ Life Comes & It Goes

~:[CH8 - Day 182]:~ Life Comes & It Goes

News broke of the death of the 27 year old starting pitcher Tyler Skaggs of the Los Angeles Angels. It's a heartbreaking update as he is described as one of the nicest people you could meet and also had a bright future ahead of him. You can only imagine the pain and agony that his family, friends and teammates must be going through. As the thoughts of this article lingered in my mind, it reminded me about how life passes so quickly sometimes. Like the constantly flow of trains in every stations, people come and go. We cross paths, we may chat, but at some point, that train arrives and that train will leave. As much as I love soaking in the change in environment around me, wandering the streets and trying to find places I've never been, today also made me miss the love of my family, friends, and all those I encounter. As much as I wanted to stay abroad, as there were a number of people I still wanted to meet, today was a reminder that there are a multitude of things awaiting me at home. As the countdown of my final few days begins, my sadness suddenly turned to excitement as while I will miss my friends and all the experiences I've been able to have here, I'm excited to head home before any train departs into eternity. Rest in peace Tyler Skaggs.