Perseverance is power

Did you know that the earthquake that rocked Japan was so massive that it actually moved the country closer to the United States and changed the Earth's axis?  The aftermath of destruction in the country is so devastating, it left the whole world in shock and grief.

Despite the country's loss, Japan's resilience and discipline is evidently restoring it's luster.

Airline food

Japan is one of the most (if not the best) beautiful place I was fortunate enough to have frequently visited.  And I will always love the place and will never tire of visiting.

Shibuya

It's colorful and diverse culture, particularly the youth's fascination with Manga and Anime fashion is predominantly visible.

Harajuku

Harajuku fashion

But it is a relief to see the old culture still alive....

I would have loved to experience Japan's famous sakura (cherry blossom), but autumn's colorful flora is just as spectacular.

Hibiya Park

 

Autumn from Tokyo Tower

View from Tokyo Tower

One thing odd about Japanese men, they seem to be content being left alone...  must be the sushi...

Alone at Hibiya Park

Alone again at Hibiya Park

Alone at Ginza

Weekends on Ginza's shopping district is a must-experience!  The city closes the street to give way to swarms of locals and tourists.  I was practically in heaven! 

Ginza's center lane

Fashionable in Ginza

Not a care in the world, I sat myself in the center of the road and fired away!

Relaxed and at peace...

But the highlight of my trip was my most anticipated visit to the world famous Tsukiji Fish Market! I had to be at the place very, very early (3:00 a.m.!) to get the best view of the auction.  Activity starts at 5:00 and normally ends at 7:00am.

Very early morning at Tsukiji Fish market

Tuna being inspected by wholesalers

Tuna auctioneers

Making a sale

A night in Tokyo

Having experienced it's culture, it's people, fashion and beauty, I am in awe at how they persevered, kept their cool and civility to get them through the tragic events.  Despite the enormous loss of lives and property, they are coming back, like they always do.  Such strength in a culture is inspiring and uplifting....  

Let me share to you a line my Japanese golf buddy,  Mr. Kurahachi, told me after a bad game some time ago. 

"Don't give up. Just continuing to hold on will reveal strength and power. Continuing on after a setback is its own kind of strength. Perseverance is power."

 
It has since helped me go through some of my own difficult moments, and it perfectly describes the Japanese's deep faith and strong cultural roots.

ありがとうございます！