When you travel to other countries that have very different cultures and customs than what we're used to in the United States, it is very important to follow the expectations of the country you're in.  You should not expect food, treatment among people, or the language to be like the U.S.  Unfortunately, many Americans fail to respect another country's differences and want to have things "their way," meaning the U.S. way.  It's called being an "ugly American."  We all have tried very hard not to be.  I almost gave in for a small moment at lunch when I was tempted to go to Wendy's.  I resisted, and went to the basement of a major department store instead.  The basements of these stores are wall-to-wall food -- a Japanese version of "fast food."  The food is already put into small serving cartons.  When you make your selection and pay, you're given your food and chopsticks (remember - no napkins!), and presto - you have lunch.  I am looking forward to American pizza soon.  I've missed that!
      There are many Japanese foods that are oishii -- everyone in the group has devoured and savored a special orange - it is similar to a tangerine, but a lot more orange in color, no seeds, and oh, so sweet!  Their apples are a delicacy, too.  And I'll show you a picture of the $120.00 melons, ß-- you get 2 for that price!  Needless to say, I won't be bringing them home.
     The lobby of our hotel was transformed overnight into a Christmas theme.  Since Christianity is a very small religion here, the celebration in Japan is for commerce only.  That means, "buy gifts."  I am also looking forward to seeing Christmas decorations in the U.S. where people have connected the story of Christmas to them.   
     Mikimoto is the most famous store in the world for pearls.  They have a huge tree in front of their store, trying to look like the famous tree at Rockefeller Center in New York City.  I'm ready to see the OCES Christmas tree.
     There are many ways to learn.  In my life, I have learned a lot by reading and traveling.  I have learned so much during 3 weeks in Japan; now the rest of the journey of live continues as I add this experience to it.  Our farewell song was titled, "Eagle Flies to the Rising Sun."
    I am ready to see Eagles flying around OCES.  When I leave the hotel tomorrow at 10:30 A.M., it will take me almost 20 hours to get home.  I won't know whether to be awake or go to sleep.  That's what happens when you fly halfway around the world.
     See you next week