Step in the Right Direction & Words of Wisdom
Writing this post from Tokyo, Japan as I am here to process my short-term working visa for Korea (termed “C-4”). As usual, it was a veritable challenge to carry out the entire procedure — locating the right Consulate/Embassy where to apply (it is worth mentioning that there are different documents requested depending on the location), gathering all of the proper materials, scheduling the plane ticket, and arranging accommodation in this city that is far too expensive. In the end, I managed to obtain the visa with the fortunate help of friends and family, which is all very relieving. I will board a plane to return to Seoul tomorrow and start my internship with this public relations agency next week. I am excited to take on a new challenge and believe that it is what I would like to become involved in.
It is almost surreal to think that I once lived here in Tokyo, almost as if it were in a former life. It was not an easy experience and I have to say that Japan is the country where I feel the most disconnected and like an outsider amongst all countries where I have visited (more than 36 now). However, this country is absolutely captivating and I unequivocally advise everyone to visit Japan once in their lifetime — there is no place quite like it in the world. I prefer the countryside regions (Kansai in particular) over Tokyo for cultural and historical aspects.
On an off-topic note, my mother recently wrote me this bit of philosophy, which I would like to share. The more I travel, the more I realize how true this is and how strongly it resonates with me:
“You the youth have a beautiful life, all of your generation; no war, prosperity, in good health. Think just for a moment about the past generations… the youth of today is the fruit of the work from our ancestors, all of you carry the dreams of past generations; dreams of happiness, dreams of traveling, dreams of action! It is really great to see all you young people live life to the fullest! At least the sacrifices of our elders have served for something – the youth from all nationalities can meet, get to know one another and become friends. This Blue Planet is our haven, our anchor, and belongs to each being on this planet; leave our disputes behind us and let’s all become friends!”
I am certainly lucky to have been provided with the opportunities and accessibility to persons and places that were not afforded to others both in the past and present. It is not something that I take lightly and I continually strive and hope to help others now and in the future in any way that I can.
Cheers! Matthew
