One of the most wonderful highlights of my life has been the two months I spent working in Japan.

Now mind you, Japan was not a place I thought I would ever visit or even enjoy. However, I was delightfully surprised at how much I felt connected to this country.

And what amazed me the most was the fact that for as hard as the Japanese people work, they know how to balance their lives with fun and relaxation.

And let me tell you….the Japanese know how to PARTY.

Another thing that impressed me was how much spirituality plays a part of their everyday lives, because it’s obvious in how they live confidently, yet quietly from their souls.

I never felt more peaceful and calm than the time I lived there.

I would like to share with you some of the things that Japan has taught me…

Waste not, want not

I never realize just how wasteful I was, because the Japanese are extremely conscious of waste.

Food portions in restaurants are far smaller than here in the U.S. Paper napkin usage is minimal. I never realized how many napkins I habitually used when I ate.

Beverage refills are not automatically given when your glass is emptied – you must ask.


Service

As far as I’m concerned, no one gives customer service like the Japanese. The service in department stores, restaurants, hotels, and public transportation is mind-blowing.

The Japanese have service down to an art.

I paid 45 USD for a mans haircut that I would have gladly paid more, because of the care and attention I received. The hotel I lived in for two months took care of my comfort as if I was staying at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.

Everything in Japan is about service.

And tipping is not allowed.

Cleanliness

OMG…..I would have been honored to eat off their city streets because of how immaculate everything is. I don’t think I ever saw a single piece of litter during the entire time I was there.

The subway system looks as though they had just built it brand new. There is no such thing as graffiti in Japan.

Respect for the Elderly

The manor in which the Japanese culture values their elderly is to be commended. They believe that as someone grows older…they become more valuable.

As well it should be all over the world.

Thank you Japan…..for all that you showed me.

Domo arigatou.

*thank you very much.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

X