Random Thoughts of Being Raised in a Bi-cultural Family (2)

I come from two cultures that respond/react tremendously different, when it comes to expressing your emotions physically. In Guam, when we greet each other, we will often embrace one another, give the other a kiss or at the very least extend a hearty handshake, often letting the moment linger. While talking to one another, it is common to periodically touch the other person, to show affection. When parting, this may all be repeated; often more than once! However, in Japan, it can be the total opposite. Although this is changing and does differ with family, relatives and close friends, there is still a certain amount of distance and restraint practiced. Bowing to each other is the norm; if there is some physical contact, this is usually limited to a handshake or a pat on the hand or shoulder; even then, it could be an awkward experience, particularly if the other party is not "prepared" for such physical contact. In most cases, keeping one's composure under control is important and can be expressed by more verbal means or facial expressions. This has been both a frustrating/confusing and interesting/comical experience for me most of my life, whether it be with personal or professional situations. I am very much accustomed to both ways, yet there are times when it can be difficult to put into play my bi-cultural habits of expressing myself physically, especially during times of extreme happiness or sadness.

The ISLAND FIESTA PLATE

Anyone who comes from or who has lived in an island community within the Pacific Rim knows what I am talking about; the familiar paper plate that is loaded with many wonderful foods we grew up with and is usually served at a BBQ, a casual gathering, some special event or even at one's home. Local cuisine, as well as dishes influenced from other neighboring islands or countries is most always included, as well. Simply put, we from the islands love good chow and eat it well!!! The individual dishes that may be included are too numerous to mention; as they say, "a picture paints a thousand words", so here I will share with you a beautiful ISLAND FIESTA PLATE from a close friends' wedding reception I attended within the last year back home on Guam, which also represents the island of Palau (Belau), where they both originally are from.

Where is Grandma & Grandpa??? Case of the Missing 100+ year-olds!

There has been coverage on TV lately here in Japan about several missing or unaccountable CENTENARIANS, from the northernmost island of Hokkaido to the southernmost islands of Okinawa. When I first heard the news, foul play was suspect and there was a case featured that led the viewer to assume that indeed, it was a case of murder for money. However, as other cases were featured, it shed light to the sad fact that for several other reasons, there are just many, many elderly folks that just disappeared or whereabouts have been unknown (for years even), as family members and friends just were not in contact with them at all. The Japanese government is now involved in having local municipalities and officials take into account the whereabouts of all their centenarian residents, whereby door-to-door visits and in some cases, investigations have commenced. As I watched the news, two things came to my mind immediately; the sad truth that yes indeed; unlike days of past, people have become more estranged and disconnected with their own family members within many island cultures, as traditionally, these bonds have always been strong and steadfast. The other thing that came to mind and made me shake my head in amazement was the simple matter-of-fact that since centenarians are so prevalent in Japan, the news of having to check on all the 100+ year-old residents would take awhile and they announced efforts would be made nation-wide to ensure all were accounted for.