The idea that I could live in Japan forever can become true
or not at all. The reason is because I am very open to change, and living in
Japan can either be a good thing or bad thing-depending on who you ask. The
fact that I am young increases my chances to living my future days in Japan.
However, I am currently in a relationship which means it also shapes the
decisions I make in life. I am not saying that this relationship is crushing
any of my chances with living in such a rich culture because both our goals deal
with the possibility that “our” future can go in such a way that we both end up
living in this country (or anywhere else really). At the end of the day, it is my
decision to make such a change which is why I say that I cannot be certain I
would ever decide such a thing.
I'm not going to lie, living in Japan sounds so amazing, but of course, you can’t have
everything. What I mean is that while living in Japan can help me gain so much
more experience and knowledge, I also leave behind particular aspects that has
made me who I am today. I’m not only an American, but a Chicana as well. In
case for those who do not know this, it means of Mexican origin or descent.
Both my parents were born in Mexico but of course, made their way to the States
before I was born.
I was born in Los Angeles, California and now reside outside
of L.A. but still within county range. I
grew up with people who were very much like me, so the area alone is inspired
by Mexican culture. The food, the people, the parties, and other
characteristics that make up my Mexican heritage have already been left behind
once. Moving to Minnesota, particularly in a rural area made it difficult for
me to even adjust to life there. I have been able to manage well but
nonetheless, I always seem to find myself missing home. This is important for
me to inform you because while I made a change in moving away so far away from
home, I also believe that I can’t imagine living my whole life away from home as well.
Therefore, what I have come to conclude about the idea of me
living in Japan forever is that I can see myself living here but not forever. Sure
I would love to have a job here and be able to incorporate myself within the
intercultural-communication relationship with others but I cannot allow myself
to lose my roots. Having a life in Japan will limit my ability to express my
Mexican heritage in any way. I can honestly say that finding Mexican food to
buy at restaurants is either impossible to do or “offense.” Their style of
Mexican food is an American version of Mexican food. Horrible right? Not to
mention that if you plan to consider cooking Mexican food on your own, just
know that there probably won’t be much left in your wallet; it is just so
expensive to find the ingredients you need. There are some Catholic/Christian
churches around but mass is told in English. For me, I only happen to know my
prayers in Spanish; I am very proud of that. In the end, even though I am open
to change I am just not open to “forever.”
