Happy New Year! Akemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu !
In Japan, the year of the Tiger began on January the first. The year of the Ox has come to an end which, according to some interpretations of the Chinese zodiac, was a year of diligence and patience, perhaps even a little stubbornness in some cases. It was certainly a year when human characteristics did not always reflect integrity or principles. The entire world faced a series of financial, man-made and natural disasters and showed us once again, that to survive, we need to work together. It is encouraging to see that our students agree as you will see from their articles. Understanding the self, effective communication and environmental issues remain a top interest. We have included three group essays that show the challenges and rewards of working with a team. Note their personal comments about the process. It is a pity that space does not allow us to publish everything that crosses our desks but it is inspiring to read the many articles and essays that provide insight into the minds of a section of the youth of Japan that choose to come to KIFL.

Our guest corner should motivate ? it has three essays by three very different people. Tareko Hasegawa, “A Fascinating Person”, has travelled all over the world, is in her early 80s and continues to work as a volunteer Japanese teacher as well as participate in many other activities. Her courtesy is very natural and thoughtful and I love hearing about her childhood when things were so different than they are today. Kumiko Koiwa, “A Graveyard Mystery”, is passionate about Robert Louis Stevenson and her interest in all things sparks my own. I am sure that her staff is very lucky to have her guidance. Ken Ninomiya, “The Boss”, has a great interest in green gardening ? his spinach is especially delicious. His working life has been extremely creative and interesting as you will see from his essay yet he is so modest about his accomplishments.

Our graduate, Mikiya Kato was interviewed earlier on the past year. He has since joined another hard working graduate, Hiroyuki Kosuge, at Waseda where both are preparing to make a mark in the world. Hiroyuki has been busy taking courses, attending seminars and learning from interesting people and places as he always seems to be flying off somewhere. I am always impressed with his enthusiasm and self-knowledge.

For most of us in Japan, the old year is given a quiet farewell. Homes are given an extra top to toe cleaning in preparation for the New Year, “Nengajo” are prepared for post, temples become a place of purification with the ringing of 108 bells and a bowl of hot soba bridges the old and new. Families enjoy the traditional red and white song competition on NHK and children excitedly receive tiny, colourful envelopes of money from family members. But a week has now passed and the official start of our Winter Intensive Term (WIT) is providing us with fresh energy and new motivation. Some sources predict that this year of the Tiger will be a year of extra challenge because it is a Metal Tiger year. It has been stated in some sources that there will be more assertive action and determination than last year. This also means that we can achieve some positive goals if we communicate honestly and work together. Being rather impatient and independent, I am not the best of team workers but our student group essays remind me of the rewards of learning from the different views and styles of others.

Working with these students also reminded me that we teachers, parents and others in positions of authority do not always follow what we ‘preach', teach or say. Therefore, my resolution this year is to take more action, be more productive and work at acceptance. “Nothing is impossible” according to Shawn Mullins, the winner of our speech contest.

Editor