When the World Turned Upside Down

I am in Japan as the year nears an end.

For some reason, out of all the places on Earth, I have spent the past year here. We all know that 2020 has changed the world forever, and for some reason, I have been privileged to live in Japan during this year of uncertainty. For whatever reason, I have been blessed with security throughout the wildness that 2020 brought. During 2020 is when the world turned upside down.

I have followed the news flowing out of my home country as several plagues existed at once. Whenever I consume it, it feels like I am looking through a small window into a house that is chaotic. A place where everything is turned upside down.

Where grocery store workers are taking on the most responsibility, and government workers are ignoring responsibility.

Where socialization is dangerous and isolation is necessary.

Where school buildings are empty and hospitals are full.

My home country has been standing on it's head and I commend all who have dealt with it. Let us hope that we regain balance, regain stability, and emerge from this delusional year with a new appreciation for life.

My life in Japan has been unbelievable in the sense that I often cannot believe that I am here. It is something I will cherish forever. Aside from the occasional mini earthquake, language misunderstanding, or crowded train, this country has treated me well. If it weren't for these struggles then I wouldn't be able to appreciate the beauty of it all.

A life without dissonance is lifeless.

J.S

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