I always aspire to be free.
While I am not living an isolated life like a hermit, I aim to sustain as much freedom as possible within society's boundaries.
There was a period when I lived in the U.S.
During the weekends, my spouse and I would find ourselves obliged to attend various gatherings and parties.
The lessons I learnt there continue to influence me today.
In America, the melting pot of cultures, discussions on "politics and religion" were challenging topics, so I refrained from them.
I also discovered that Japanese values can drastically differ from those in America.
So, who am I really?
While I enjoy reading the Old Testament, I am not a Christian.
Just yesterday, I participated in the Nagoshi-no-Harae, a summer purification ceremony, not out of religious devotion but as a means to preserve Japanese culture.
I am neither Muslim nor, perhaps, I might be a Buddhist…
I believe there is a god of conscience within me,
And that dictates how I act.
I firmly believe this mindset is optimal for those who yearn for freedom.
By the way, whenever my husband finds himself in a difficult conversation with foreigners, he always defaults to,
"My wife's hobby is horse riding."
This strategy always works wonders. It invariably aids the conversation.
Responses often go like, "Oh, I ride horses too," or "My niece runs a ranch; she would be delighted if you paid a visit."
In times of uncertainty, horse-talk seems to be a universal language.
So, let's seek help from horses and maintain our freedom!