Over the past few weeks, you've followed my journey here in Japan. Together, we learned about transportation, traditions, finding a new community, food, nature and the environment. You also came along on my trip to Kawaguchiko and Hakone. Sharing my experiences with you was very enjoyable. I have been wanting to start my own blog for a while, but have never gotten around to it. Sharing my story through Reach the World has really helped me to move forward on this goal, and I have decided to start my own blog at the end of this month. Before signing off, I'd like to share three values: be courageous, do hard things and continue to be curious.
Being courageous doesn't mean you're not afraid. It means not letting fear stop you. It's okay to be afraid and unsure, but don't let that get in the way of doing good things. Moving to Japan was really scary. I didn't know anyone living in Tokyo, and I don't have any family here. However, I knew that studying in Japan was a really great opportunity and that I would not have this opportunity again after graduating college. By moving past my fears and making decisions based on the available information, I was able to go on this crazy adventure. If I could re-live this time, I would still choose to come to Japan.
Next, I want to encourage you to do hard things.