Memories of Japan

By Devin Brown

Walking off the plane, walking into a strange place, walking into beautiful weather, beautiful scenery, I was more scared yet more excited at that exact moment than I have ever been in my life.
Nothing could have ruined that moment, not the long flight, not the heat, and especially not the tiredness. How could I be tired when I had so much excitement running through me? So much excitement that I couldn't even sleep after I had gotten back to the resort. The resort, which was also the nicest place I have ever seen in my life. So nice, that the exact words out of my mouth, as we drove near it at 12 am, were "Hey, that place is amazing looking, I hope we stay there?" Much to my surprise, we pulled into the parking lot of this amazing building.
After a short sleep, the next day was definitely the most important of all. Running off pure adrenaline and excitement, we met the city of Muriyama's mayor, went to the Coming of Age Ceremony, and had a reception with the mayor and his wife. This really made an impact on how the rest of the trip would go, the first impression was most important of all. I feel that we made a great impression, really showed what we could do as ambassadors. But we still had two more weeks ahead of us, and two more weeks to be a delegation, and I feel that we did a great job to show who we are.
The culture in Japan was such a huge difference from that in Canada. The culture is so refined, and so historic. They have a huge respect for their elders. The food is different, but all you can do while you're there is go with the flow, soak it all up and take it all in. Try everything, and go with everything. While we were there I don't think there was a single thing introduced to me that I didn't have an open mind about. How could I have an opinion or judge anything? I have never experienced anything like this.
After visiting countless amounts of phenomenal shrines, and amazing temples, I have a different outlook on how a culture can treat a religion. Nothing like how Canadians do. It is so sacred, and cherished by everyone there, Buddhism, and all other religions. The spiritual cleansing before being permitted to enter any religious building or area is something I feel is amazing. To be capable of experiencing that is a privilege and I thank everyone who allowed me to experience it.
In Canada we have hills, large hills, medium sized hills, and small hills; still they are merely hills. In Japan, and especially Murayama City, they have mountains! This small farming community is surrounded by these huge mountains. Probably the most beautiful sight my eyes will ever see, was clouds wrapping around the mountains and shifting through the day. It is heavenly. Not only did the beautiful weather, and ocean blue skies make it so nice to go outside, but also these giant mountains. Acting as protectors of the area almost, these ancient giants look down on Murayama. Perhaps something that made the second impact on me during my stay.

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