I want to take a moment to express how much love and gratitude I have for life.
I’ve been through a lot of hard times. Yet in these moments, I try to understand that life is full of lessons. Sometimes the lessons we learn feel very painful, but it’s through the consciousness of pain that gives us an opportunity to grow. Life will always contain suffering; no one comes into or out of this world unscathed. I find that it’s better when I lean into the hardship. What is this moment trying to tell me? I try to give myself time to evaluate the situation and learn from it. Wisdom arises from the difficulties we face.
I’m 38 years strong, and I can confidently tell you that I feel more at ease and at peace as time progresses. That doesn’t necessarily mean that I’m happy all the time. Happiness is an emotion; emotions are fleeting. If you were happy all the time, people might think you’re on drugs and crazy. Life ebbs and flows.
Feel all the feelings, the good, the bad, the ugly. Poetry exposes itself in every situation. In this way, we are all poets. As an artist, I can turn the viscera of life into something meaningful. And that my friends is what life is about. Expressing, sharing, communing, loving, and being open to the possibility that you know nothing. What an exciting prospect, for in that nothingness something can be discovered. Keep living, keep asking questions, and most importantly keep trying. “Perhaps a utopia can be found in the trying?” Those aren’t my words, but I like borrowing them in this context.
The photos are from my knee surgery yesterday (2.3.2025)
Hi Yoshino, your podcast meant a lot to me when I was a student gosh I can't remember how long ago maybe 12 years.
Good to see you here, wish you a prompt recovery, thanks for the comfurting words.
It's true that some of life's most profound lessons come wrapped in challenging experiences.
I appreciate how you distinguish between temporary happiness and deeper peace. It's a humble and open way to approach life that creates space for discovery and growth.Though we don't see each other often, I always value our conversations and the thoughtful way you engage with life's big questions. Looking forward to our next chance to connect in person.