During this time I also got to enjoy many sakura and ume (plum) flavored foods only available during the flower blooming spring season.
In addition, the tradition of “gratitude” is also closely tied to Japan’s environment. The Japanese word “arigatou” meaning originates from the verb “aru” (to exist) and adjective “gatai” (difficult). In its earlier forms in history, it was used to express that something was “rare or precious” or even “it is hard to live.” Japanese farmers used to say it after harvests because Japan’s mountainous landscape, frequent natural disasters, and geography make it difficult to grow crops. Due to the growing influence of compassion from Buddhism, “arigatou” is now commonly used to express general gratitude. When you receive help from someone or a gift, you say “arigatou-gozaimasu” because experiencing a stranger’s kindness or a friend’s thoughtfulness can be a hard thing to come by. Like most Japanese people, I’m sure we all have something to be thankful for.
