Part 1: Native vs. Non-Native English Teachers

photo credit: www.pixgood.com

There's a perennial argument in ESL teaching about native versus non-native teachers. There are so many issues and thousands of argument about this it took me almost 10 years to finally write my own piece. Also, because of the various points related to this topic, this will be a 3-part series.

The most common argument of Native speakers is that they know English more intimately than the non-natives. They've heard it since they're in the womb. That's how intimate they know the language. This argument is truly valid. Even if I want to learn Japanese, I'll look for a Nihonggo teacher who's actually Japanese. If an Indian teacher shows up in my Japanese class, I'd doubt him at first. 

On the other hand, non-Native speakers argue that since they've learned English they know how to break it down and how to teach it to ESL learners. This argument is also valid. I'm a non-native speaker and the way I teach is the way I learned English. If native speakers have an intimate knowledge of the language, non-natives have personally experienced learning the language. 

Both arguments have merits but there's a disconnect in perspective. Native speakers look at English holistically. English is not just a language but a representation of a culture and of a race. Non-native speakers view English as a skill. It's a tool and a means. 

Interestingly, native speakers' most common arguments against non-natives are skills-related. On the other hand, non-natives' most common arguments are more on the race.

Here are the most common arguments I've read against non-native teachers. As a non-native teacher, I will not provide rebuttals cause I might just sound bias. Instead, I'll try to explain the situation of a non-native English speaker- both as a teacher and as a learner.

Japan's National Foundation Day 2015

photo credits: Agence France-Presse/ Getty Images/ The Wall Street Journal

Today is Japan's Foundation Day. It's a holiday! So Yay!

In Japanese this day is  Kenkoku Kinen No Hi. (Thanks, Wikipedia.)

This is believed to be the day when the first of emperor of Japan named Jimmu came into throne. This was supposed to coincide with the lunar New Year. But the Japanese followed the Gregorian calendar during the Meiji Era so the new year's date changed. The government then picked February 11th as the official National Foundation Day. Why they picked the 11th? Even historians has no definite answer. It was in 1873 when this day was officially proclaimed as a holiday. So today, Japan is celebrating 142 years.

However, there are really no big celebrations in Hamamatsu during this day. There are no parades or any festivities. The Prime Minister will deliver a speech in Tokyo. People will probably stay indoors and rest or maybe go to the mall. Schools and offices are closed- supposedly. I know some people who still planned to work today. (Oh well, carousel!) As for me, I'll just have ramen and go to karaoke with a friend later. That's how I'll celebrate today.

For more information on Japan's National Foundation Day, check out these wonderful blogs;

1. (Genkinahito's Blog) National Foundation Day in Japan

This post has a lot of colorful and interesting information about National Foundation Day.

''Today is National Foundation Day in Japan. The creation of the day uses elements that stem all the way back to Japan’s earliest history but the exact day, the eleventh of February, was decided during the Meiji period (1868-1912)

February 11th is a day that celebrates the foundation of Japan by Jimmu, the first Emperor of Japan and direct descendant of the Sun Goddess Amaterasu. Scholars are unsure of his origins but the original date was recorded in The Chronicles of Japan (Nihon Shoki).'' (Read More)

2. (Stripes Japan) Foundation Day on Feb. 11 highlights royal controversy

Another informative blog post that encapsulates the history of the National Foundation Day. 

''One day out of the year many nationalists groups and Shinto shrines throughout Japan celebrate a national holiday with parades and ceremonies, while the Japan Teachers Union and other groups assemble and rally in protest of the holiday.

That day is Kenkokukinen-no-Hi, or National Foundation Day, on Feb. 11. And its history and making are as complicated and controversial as the pastimes that now surround it.'' (Read more)

How about you, how do you celebrate National Holidays? 

Setsubon: Spring's Starting

photo credit: http://blog.ofjapan.jp/awaiting-spring-japan-setsubun/

Today is the first day of spring in Japan.

At least that's what the lunar calendar is saying. (But the temperature is telling a different season.)

The first day of spring in Japan is called Risshun. There are no special events during this day. Instead, the celebration happened  yesterday, the last day of winter. This is called SETSUBON. In translation it means ''seasonal division.''

There's an ancient belief that when the seasons are about to change, the spirit world and the human world are in close contact. The spirits can wreak havoc to the human world. To avoid this, people wearing an ogre's mask should cast out the spirits from their houses... with roasted soybeans! While throwing soybeans, these phrases should also be uttered ''Oni wa soto, Fuku wa uchi'' (Devil get out, Happiness come in!)

Because it was setsubon yesterday, the school lunch included roasted peanuts coated in sweet batter. Actually, that's how I knew it was setsubon yesterday. A teacher explained to me that we have to eat roasted peanuts on Setsubon. Japan has a lot of traditional food for every occasion, I suppose. Aside from peanuts, we can also eat roasted beans and makizushi. These food will bring us good fortune.

For a clearer and idea of the Setsubon, here are some websites and  blogs you can check out: (It's Wednesday today, time to Share Other Blogs/ Bloggers)

1. (Of Japan) Awaiting the spring in Japan- Setsubon 

Aside from explaining the rituals on Setsubon, it also has an information of Setsubon celebrations in different parts of Japan.

2. (Human Japanese) Setsubon

This  summarized version the rituals during Setsubon. I included this entry because of the scary ogre picture on this post.

3. (Elementary Japanese Blog) Happy Setsubon is Coming Up!

This blog is maintained by Japanese teachers. I admire their efforts to write in English. Since the writers are Japanese and they know their customs more than foreigners do, they're more credible to talk about Setsubon. What's unique with this blog is it also features what the students did during the Setsubon.

4. (Zooming Japan): Setsubon; Bean Throwing Day

This post described the rituals on Setsubon in a personal funny way.


Aside from eating the peanuts in the school lunch, I alse ate a whole, uncut maki roll yesterday. A kind neighbor invited me to her place. Then she explained how we should eat the maki facing the ''lucky direction.'' I don't know what direction we faced but the maki tasted good! I have a kind neighbor who served a free delicious make- I'm definitely fortunate.

Happy spring!!!

Why the OEC (Balik-Manggagawa) Should Be Abolished

Note: This post is meant for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) and has no direct relation to Japan. I'm posting this because I'm an OFW who sees no point for OEC. 

photo credit: http://polomuscatoman.weebly.com/how-to-get-an-oec.html

What is OEC? 

OEC stands for Overseas Employment Certificate. According to Pinoy-OFW:

"An Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is a requirement under POEA Rules and Regulations to help ensure that Filipino overseas workers (OFWs) are properly documented and protected. This certificate, when presented at Philippine airports for outbound international flights, also exempts OFWs from travel tax and terminal fees normally charged to travelers."

The purpose of the OEC looks reasonable and noble on print. It's meant to "ensure proper documentation" and to "protect OFW's". It's even meant to exempt OFW's from travel tax and terminal fees. 

But this is only in print.

Culture Shock in the Philippines: Fat People, Fat Cheeks and Not-So-Fat Wallets

photo credit: http://thestylesunltd.com/

I was shocked at my own culture.

I know there's really nothing shocking about this. Lots of people living abroad experience being culture-shocked at their own culture. Still, I was shocked at myself for being shocked. Shock! Shock! Shock!

I went to the Philippines for the winter vacation. This is my third time going home after I started living in Japan. I didn't experience culture shock the first two times probably because I went back too soon. It took me 16 months before this third homecoming so maybe that's why I got bewildered.

How did I get culture-shocked? Let me count the ways...

1. People are spilling all over the place

There are about 100 million Filipinos all over the world. I shouldn't be surprised if there are a gazillion of people when I got home but I was. I was overwhelmed by the number of people in the airport, on the streets, at the malls, at the spa, on buses, on trains and on just about everywhere. When I went to a government office earlier this month, there were about 10,000 people gathered in that office. How that office contained us is a mystery.

My place in the Philippines is similar to where I live in Japan. Both are on the edge of bigger cities. They're not as exciting as the big cities but not as sleepy as in the rural areas. But my once quiet hometown is no more. There used to be less children, less people and less dogs in my neighborhood. Now, my neighborhood feels smaller and suffocating with all the people and dogs and even chickens living there. Where did all the people and animals come from? In Hamamatsu, I only see crowds during the Hamamatsu festival and on fireworks Festival. Even with these big festivals, the number of people in Hamamatsu seemed irrelevant compare to the Filipinos flocking the malls daily.

Even when I visited the smaller cities in the provinces, people are still in every corner. The Philippines seem to be bursting at the seams with people. It's ironic why it doesn't feel like this in Japan. Japan has 120 million people but they must be hiding in their houses and offices.

My Kakizome for 2015

There's a Japanese word for the first writing of the year. It's called kakizome. People used to write traditional proverbs or short poems related to peace, love, happiness, prosperity, youth or whatever the calligrapher wants to have in the new year. Modern kakizome just used kanji characters.

(More on kakizome here)

Now, I can't write kanji. I can't do calligraphy. So obviously, I can't do kakizome. I'll just use this first post of the year as my very own and personalized kakizome. 

Here's my kakizome for 2015: 

photo credit: travelingscarf.blogspot.com

I've been so used opening the year with a bunch of things-to-do, and annual goals. I spend the last days of the previous year planning on things I have to accomplish.  I like to think of myself as a go-getter, someone who's in constant pursuit of goals and dreams. I like being busy learning new things, developing skills and growing with people. I like filling my days writing, observing, talking, cycling, planning, travelling and hanging out. I like being physically and mentally mobile. 

However, before 2014 year ended I realized that I spent too much time being on my feet and less time being on my knees. I'm running after life when there's really nothing to hurry about. I'm doing and thinking a hundred things when only a few really matters. I'm trying to play god when I can barely control my own life. 

So this year, I'm making a conscious decision to take things easy, to let go of things I have no control, to take longer coffee breaks and naps, to savor sunsets and sunrises and to spend unhurried moments with people. I'll be still this 2015 and just let life happen.

How about you, what words will you use in your kakizome? 

Want to know more about New Year in Japan? Check out these informative and wonderful sites:

What Japanese eat on New Year's Eve

New Year's in Japan

Shogatsu- Enjoy New Year Celebrations in Japan

Nengajo: How to Send a Japanese New Year Postcard

Making the Most of New Year in Japan

Stress Alert!: I'll Be Home for Christmas...

Blurred; Winter Illumination at Flower Park, Hamamatsu

This is how most Japanese celebrate Christmas: Go to work (if it's a workday), eat fried chicken from KFC, have some pretty Christmas cake and maybe give gifts to immediate family. Then go to work again the following day. Short and simple.

This is how Filipinos celebrate Christmas: Start a 100-day Christmas countdown, play carols from September, put up the Christmas tree in October, have Kris Kringles in November, attend parties from the 1st day of December and feel the Christmas hang-over in January. Around the days before and after Christmas, there's a lot of pigging out and shopping. Philippines has the longest Christmas indeed!

What Flowers to Give?

One of my Business English classes ended last week. As a way of saying thank you, my students gave me a bouquet of assorted flowers. I don't know the names of the flowers; I just know they're beautiful. I received a few bouquets of flowers on my last day in my former school, too. The few schools I substituted during my first months here also gave me flowers. When I was a guest speaker in a community English class, I got flowers. I'd probably get flowers in March when I bid farewell to my current school.

In Japan, giving flowers is a customary way of showing professional appreciation.Giving flowers is not only for women. Schools and companies also give "flowers of appreciation" to male employees. Also, the more elaborate and more expensive the bouquet, the more it shows how appreciated you are. From the grapevine, the principal in my former school got a bouquet worth 20,000 Yen during his farewell party. (That's 10000 PHP or 200USD!) I find it quite extravagant. I'd prefer cash. (haha!) But well, that's their culture and that's how they say a big THANK YOU.

How to Teach in Japan

Tetsujin 48, Kobe

Are you getting ready to come to Japan and teach?

Are you planning of becoming an ALT in Japan?

Are you a new teacher in Japan and needs some help in finding your way?

Or, you're just plain curious how teaching is done in Japan?

If you're one of these, then my latest e-book, Jumping to Japan (How to Survive Teaching in Japan),  is for you!

I wrote Jumping to Japan to help incoming Assistant Language Teachers (ALT). I've been a new ALT once so I understand the anxiety and confusion new ALT's may feel. Jumping to Japan covers topics of immediate concerns of prospective and new teachers such as:  what to do on the first day of school, what Japanese level should ALT's have to survive, how to prepare the first lessons, how to work with Japanese teachers and how to deal with Japanese students.

Its 20 pages are packed with the most essential information that could help new ALT's easily adapt  and understand the Japanese school system. It's short and sweet.

And what's more, this book is FREE! This is Purple Pen in Japan's second year offering. (Yes, this blog is on its 2nd year now! Thanks to the people who take time to read this blog, I'm inspired to keep this running.)

To get your copy just send an email to: fayevitz@gmail.com.
Copy and paste: Please send me a copy of Jumping to Japan. 
And voila! Jumping to Japan will be delivered in your inbox for FREE!

To get a glimpse of this book, click the Jumping to Japan header or just click this link!

May you find the information you need. Happy reading!

Repost: 10 Types of Japanese Men

Did you know that Japanese men are labeled as Carnivourous? Creamy? Soy milk? and Fasting? There's also the Cabbage Roll and Hyena? 

I didn't know this until I came across this article. To be honest, I'm not even sure if I understood the types of Japanese men at all. Still, I'm reposting this article from Japan Today in case someone out there is interested. I find the labels funny, too. Tells you something about Japan!

Equality in Japan, Equality in the Philippines

Statue in a fertility cave in Chi Ki Iwa, Shinshiro City

I sat in front of my laptop with the full intention of writing about gender equality in Japan. I wanted to integrate Emma Watson's speech at the UN that has gone viral on the internet. Plus, I also wanted to feature the cheer leading routine of the University of the Philippines in last week's competition. It used equality as a theme. To emphasize the point, the ladies carried the guys while doing the pyramids. This is the PLAN. But I guess my brain cells are still half asleep. (At least you know that I had grand plans in writing this piece).

I'll just be direct on this gender equality issue and write this: There's gender inequality in Japan especially in the areas of business and politics. In fact, Japan and Korea are the only OECD countries that are in the lower ranks when it comes to gender equality. Bangladesh, a developing country, ranks higher than Japan. Interestingly, even with these findings, gender inequality doesn't seem to be a major issue in Japan.

Respecting the Elderly

''The afternoon knows what the morning never suspected'' - Robert Frost

A month ago, I met an old Japanese-man who fluently speaks in English. My friends and I were planning to go to a river in that small town where the man lives. This man is the only staff in the small tourist information. At that time, I just wanted to ask how we can go to the river. However, the old man did not only show us how to get to the river but he also talked about his life as a trader, his initiatives in tourism, his thoughts on politics and his experiences abroad. I think he would have continued talking had we not cut him off (as politely as possible). Clearly, the old man's thirsty for companionship. I would gladly listen to him if only we didn't have some place to go. Sometimes, the only thing old people need is someone who'll listen to them. It's not because they want to talk nonstop but because they want to feel they still matter.

Why I Use English?

A friend asked me why don't I use Tagalog in writing. For her, I'm a Filipino so I should be writing in Tagalog. It made me think. I thought why my Filipino friend doesn't know that the Philippine's official language is called Filipino and not Tagalog. (Tagalog is a regional language.) Instead of educating her, I just told her. "I'm at ease using English when I write."

My own answer made me think. Why can I write more easily in English when writing? And why does my friend bother telling me to write in Filipino when she doesn't even read my blog?

Why, You Using English?

Since I have plenty of time these days and August is Filipino Language's Month, I took time to reflect why I use English all the time in writing. First, I realized that my sentences are shorter when I use English. My essays would be longer if I use Filipino. I'm worried that no one would read my blog since the entries would look longer. (By the way, Filipino looks like a longer language because we use the consonant-vowel combination when syllabicating words. English uses the letter's sounds in syllabication.)

Modesty aside, I can write pretty well in Filipino. I was awarded "Best in Filipino," when I was in high school. Also, I can teach Filipino's grammar even though I'm an English teacher. I know the correct usage of confusing Filipino prepositions such as "ng" and "nang." (These two are being interchangeably used by most Filipinos.) I can explain how to find the focus of the verb. (This is a grammar lesson that most students hate.) And I can still summarize the Philippine's two greatest novels- Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. Modesty aside again, I believe I can call myself a true bilingual- I can communicate fluently both in English and Filipino and not in Taglish. (Taglish is a combination of English and Tagalog words in a sentence.) I didn't set aside learning my native language for the sake of English.

English is Formal, Filipino is Impormal

Despite of these, I still choose to write in English. It's not because I don't like to use Filipino. I just realize now that writing for me is a formal means of communication. At the same time, I grew up in a culture where English is the formal language of communication. So in my mind, writing and English should go together. I'm not comfortable using Filipino in writing because Filipino sounds quite informal.

The Filipinos have a weird way in using English and Filipino. In formal events, the host or emcee would usually use English even though the guests are all Filipinos. It's a formal event so it's time to use English! Even in the schools, students would use English when delivering reports and presentations then they'd revert back to Filipino as soon as they're out of the classroom. In radio and TV, it was only in the past 15 years that Filipino was used in reporting news. English was used for the longest time. In print until now, tabloids use Filipino while broadsheets use English. Presidents used to deliver their speeches in English. No wonder people go to rallies all the time. They can't understand their own leaders. When I watched the impeachment trials, everything was in English you'd think you're in another country. I could give more examples but my main point is this: I view writing as a formal language. Hence, I use English.

Native English Level...Daw

This entry was originally written in Filipino. When I read the original version, it felt like it was very informal. Seems like I was just talking to a friend. I can't help it. I can't change how I view my native language over night. It doesn't mean however that the original version is of lesser value. Truth be told, I do miss speaking to friends in Filipino. I'm using English here all the time and a little Japanese.

Without sounding like a braggart, I think I can communicate in English fluently. I've been asked many times if I've lived in the US or UK. I feel good about myself whenever people say that. By the way, I was also Best in English when I was in high school. Communicating with English speakers all the time made me think that I have native English level. However, I've realized in many instances that though I can communicate in English, I'm still a Filipino at heart. I laugh louder and more genuinely when the jokes are in Filipino. I feel lighter speaking in Filipino. I sound more emotional when I speak in Filipino. I'd be hurt badly if someone curse me in Filipino. I can see myself more when I write in Filipino.

My mother's family has a weird habit which was passed on to me. I express my anger in English. My boyfriend would just be quiet when I'm angry because he said he doesn't understand me anymore. I realize that I speak in English when I'm angry because I filter myself. Speaking in English help me think twice before saying anything hurtful. Also, using English in anger has less impact than if I use Filipino. If my words in anger have been translated in Filipino, my boyfriend and I would have split up long time ago. A lot of people notice too that I sound more polite, kind and genteel when I use English. I don't know why cause when my mouth is full of crazy things when I use Filipino. I was even teased as a bully because of how I speak in Filipino. I can't help it, I'm one crazy Filipino.

Sorry, Susulat Pa Rin Ako in English

Still, after all I've written, I decided to still write in English. My blog statistics would go lower if I use Filipino. Sad to say, Filipinos are not readers. Unless a blog is full of showbiz news, people won't take time to read it. Also, my top readers are not from the Philippines. I'm actually surprised that my country only ranked 4th or 5th in this blog's traffic. I believe I can reach more people around the world by using English.

The next reason for using English is this- I like it! For some unfathomable reasons, I feel more creatively free when I use English in writing. I'm free to make mistakes, to be boring, to sound preachy or to sound dramatic. I can't understand why this is so. This would be much longer if I think about this again.

All I know is this, I may be writing in English but I my heart's still a Filipino.


Here's the Original Version: Bakit English Ako ng English?

Bakit English Ako ng English?

(For the English version of this piece: Why I Use English?)

May isa kong kaibigang nagtanong bakit hindi daw ako nagsusulat sa Tagalog e Filipino naman ako. Napaisip tuloy ako ng 'di oras. Naisip ko, siya nga Filipino hindi niya alam na ang opisyal na wika ng Pilipinas ay hindi Tagalog kundi Filipino. Baka sabihin niya minamaliit ko siya kaya sabi ko na lang "Mas nadadalian kasi ako magsulat sa Ingles." 

Napaisip ulit ako sa sagot ko. Bakit nga ba Ingles ang ginagamit ko sa pagsulat? At bakit ba nakikielam ang kaibigan ko e hindi naman siya nagbabasa ng blog ko? 

Why, You Using English?

Dahil marami akong oras at Buwan ng Wika naman ngayon, pinagbulay-bulayan ko ang dahilan ng paggamit ko ng Ingles sa pagsulat. Una kong napagtanto na ang haba ng mga pangungusap ko pag Filipino ang ginagamit ko. Nabalisa ako na baka wala ng magbasa ng blog ko kase ang haba tignan. (Siya nga pala, mas mahaba ang wikang Filipino dahil ang pagbabaybay natin ay laging may katinig at patinig. Ang pagbababay sa Ingles ay batay sa tunog ng mga titik. Ang patinig at katinig ay vowel at consonant sa Ingles. Kahit Pinoy ka, I'm sure nosebleed ka!)

Hindi naman sa pagmamayabang pero marunong din naman akong magsulat sa Filipino. "Best in Filipino" kaya ako nung high school. (Ewan ko bakit Ingles ang pangalan ng parangal.) Hindi ulit sa pagmamayabang, kahit guro ako ng Ingles, kaya kong magturo ng balarilang Filipino. (Grammar pala ang ibig sabihin ng balarila. Alam kong medyo inisip mo kung ano iyon.) Alam ko ang tamang paggamit nang "ng" at "nang" (Oo, magkaiba sila ng paggamit.), maipapaliwanag ko ang pokus ng pandiwa at kaya kong ibuod ang Noli at Fili. Muli, hindi sa pagmamayabang, pero masasabi ko na totoo akong bilingual- kaya kong makipagtalastasan sa Filipino at Ingles at hindi Taglish. Hindi ko sinantabi ang pag-aaral ng Filipino para sa Ingles. 

English is Formal, Filipino is Impormal

Sa kabila nito, pinili kong magsulat sa Ingles hindi dahil ayokong gamitin ang Filipino. Ngayon ko lang napagtanto na pormal ang tingin ko sa pagsulat. Dahil pormal na uri ng komunikasyon ang pagsulat para sa akin, gagamitin ko ang pormal na wikang kinalakihan ko. Iyon ang Ingles. Lumaki ako sa kulturang may paniniwala na ang Filipino ay impormal na wika samantalang pormal naman ang Ingles. 

Pag dumadalo ako sa mga kasiyahan, Ingles ng Ingles yung host hindi naman naiitinindihan nung mga bisita. Porket pormal ang okasyon, magiingles na. Kahit sa paaralan, yung mga naguulat kung maka-Ingles ang galing pero balik sa pagFiFilipino pag kausap na yung mga kapwa mag-aaral. Kahit naman sa telebisyon at radyo, kelan lang naman nauso na Filipino ang wikang ginagamit sa mga balita. TV Patrol ata nagpauso nun eh. Maging sa mga pahayagan, pag broadsheet- Ingles, pag tabloid, Filipino. Pag may SONA dati puro Ingles. Kaya ayun protesta nang protesta mga tao. Hindi maintindihan sinasabi ng pangulo. Nung nanood ako ng impeachment, siyeeeet Ingles na naman! Marami pa kong pwedeng sabihin pero ang nais ko lang naman ipunto ay pormal ang tingin ko sa pagsulat. 

Ibig sabihin ba nito ay hindi pormal ang pagsulat na ginagawa ko ngayon? Pag binasa ko siya, ang dating niya ay hindi kasing pormal ng ibang kung naisulat sa blog na ito. Ganun talaga, hindi naman agad-agad magbabago na pagtingin ko. Kelan lang din nauso ang pa-impormal na pagsulat sa Ingles man o Filipino. Ang pakiramdam ko ngayon parang nakikipag-kwentuhan ako sa kaibigan ko. At sa totoo lang, nangungulila na akong makipagkwentuhan sa wikang Filipino. Puro Ingles halos kase ang ginagamit ko dito tapos konting Nihonggo. 

Native English Level... Daw

Ngayon magmamayabang na ko, sa tingin ko magaling naman ako makipagwentuhan sa Ingles. Marami ngang nagtatanong sa'kin kung tumira ba ko sa UK o US o anumang U na bansang nag-Iingles. Dahil mayabang ako minsan, naisip ko siyeeettt ang galing ko pala talaga sa wika! Nga pala, Best in English din ako nung high-school. (Hindi na ko nagtaka bakit Ingles ang award.) Akala ko native level na ang Ingles ko. Pero maraming pagkakataon na pinakita sa'kin na kahit anu pang pag-iingles ang gawin ko, Pilipino ako sa puso't diwa. Mas totoo at mas malakas ang pagtawa ko pag ang joke ay sa Filipino. Mas magaan sa pakiramdam ko magsalita sa Filipino. Mas madamdamin ako pag nagsalita sa Filipino. Pag minura ako sa Filipino, mas masakit. Mas nakikita ko yung sarili ko pag ang sinulat ko ay nasa Filipino. 

Merong isang kakaibang ugali ang pamilya ng nanay ko na namana ko. Pag nagagalit ako, nag-iingles ako. Yung boyfriend ko tuloy hindi sumasagot kase hindi na nya daw ako naiintidihan. Dahil kakaiba siyang ugali, inisip ko na naman kung bakit ganun. Napagtanto ko na Ingles ang ginagamit ko pag galit dahil sinasala ko ang sarili ko. Ayokong makasakit ng damdamin kaya Ingles na lang. Hindi gaanong masakit pag galit sa Ingles eh. Siguro naghiwalay na kami kung sinalin sa Filipino mga sinabi ko. Iba din ang pagkatao ko pag Ingles ang ginagamit. Ang lumanay ko daw magsalita, mahinhin, mabait, ganyan. Pero sa totoo lang, puro kalokohan lumalabas sa bibig ko pag Filipino ginagamit ko. Natawag na nga kong bully dahil sa mga pinagsasabi ko. Hindi ko mapigil eh. Filipino talaga ako eh. 

Sorry, Sususlat Pa Rin Ako in English

Sa kabila ng lahat ng sinabi ko patuloy akong magsusulat sa Ingles. Bakit? Una, pag nag-Filipino ako bababa ang stat ng blog ko. Hindi palabasa ang mga Filipino, nakakalungkot man sabihin. Kung hindi tungkol sa showbiz ang blog mo, wag ng umasa na may magbabasa. Tapos ang mga nangungunang mambabasa ng blog ko hindi mga Pilipino. Ika-apat lang o ikalima lang ang Pilipinas sa stat ko. Dahil dito, mas marami akong maaabot kapag Ingles ang ginamit ko. 

Ang pangalawang dahilan ko ay napakalalim- Ingles ang gusto kong gamitin eh. Hindi ko maipaliwanag pero mas nakakaramdam ako ng kalayaan pag nagsusulat ako sa Ingles. Nailalayo ko ang sarili kong pagkatao pag Ingles ang ginagamit ko. Mas malaya akong magkamali o maging boring o maging preachy o maging madamdamin. Hindi ko maintindihan kung bakit ganun pero ganun. Hahaba pa lalo to pag inisip ko kung bakit. 

Basta alam ko kahit Ingles ang pagsulat ko, pusong pinoy pa rin ako. (Naks!)


For the English version of this piece: Why I Use English?

Where's Christianity in Japan?

"I don't know anything about religion but I will always remember that God is with me," Akihiro shared with my group. He's replying to my question what message would he like to remember after the youth camp.

Aikihiro is one of the 30 teenagers who attended Hamamatsu Saviour King's annual youth camp. He was assigned to be on my team- the Super Mario Team. (Why my team's name is like that is another story.) In this 3-day camp, I've always seen Akihiro actively participating in the games and happily singing worship songs to a God he didn't know until the camp.

Christianity is not Japanese

For all Japan's religious festivals and traditions, most Japanese are not actively religious. There are no Sunday masses to attend, no prayers to utter on meal time and no holy book to read. They can't even distinguish whether they're Buddhist or Shinto. They go a Buddhist temple when they want and go to a Shinto shrine as they desire. Crossing over from Shinto to Buddhist and vice-versa is no big deal. Japanese culture is rooted in these two religions. Unlike Christianity.

"Christianity is not Japanese," an old Japanese once told me. I believe this opinion is somewhat reflective why there are barely 2 percent Japanese Christians. Christianity is the foreigners' religion; the Japanese have their own. It's like saying wrestling is the foreigners' sport; the Japanese have sumo. The foreigners' have tea time; the Japanese will have the eleborate (and knee jerking) tea ceremony. The foreigners' have this and that; the Japanese have their own this and that. All I'm saying is this: the Japanese are most nationalistic people I've met when it comes to their culture and traditions When something does not seem like Japanese, they're not very open about it. And this applies to Christianity.

Japan Does Not Need God

I heard once that Japan is like a dead man's land for Christian missionaries. It's not because they will be killed or will be persecuted here. It's because it's so difficult to make people see their need for God. Unlike in other areas where Christianity flourished, Japan is a comfortable and safe place. People don't need a god to make things right for them. It's their government's job. People don't need a god to hold on to when times get tough. Their lives are okay.

However, if there's one thing that Christians can do is to show God's love by being genuinely friendly and sociable. The Japanese are, perhaps, the most reserved people. They won't show affection until hell freezes over. Because of this, a lot of Japanese hunger for warmth. They may not know it until they experience it. I know a couple of Japanese ladies who want to marry foreigners because they believe that foreigners are loving and affectionate people unlike Japanese men. Even studies show that the Japanese are least sexually satisfied people. I think it's not just because of sex but of the over all standoffish culture they have here. Christians in Japan may not be able to preach how God provides our needs, how God saves us from troubles but we can sure preach (and show) how God cares and longs to be in a relationship with His people.

God's Not Dead... Not in Japan

Before the camp, I've been praying to God to give me the wisdom in handling my team. I only know how to cheer and push people to do things, how to make sure everybody feels included and how to be loud for team energy. Even though I'm a Christian for a long time, I still don't have the confidence to share the Word to non-Christians. I'm not comfortable in discussing other people's beliefs. So I just prayed that somehow God will speak to the youth in my team without me saying anything. After all, he's God so he can do it.

I believe that God did work in ways I couldn't even imagine. Weeks after the camp was over, I can still remember the lessons that the campers shared on the last day. One shared how he learned that God wants us to live for others because it's best way to live. Another said that people who are quietly doing things excellently are also brave people. A young girl reflected that God has always been there in her life. And then Akihiro ended the discussion with his own "... I will always remember God is with me." Their statements may not seem mind-blowing but considering the kind of culture these youth are coming from, their statements on God are big things.

I'm amazed that God did not only gave me wisdom. He also gave wisdom to these young people. He did not only use me to bless them but he also used them to bless me. God even used these young people to remind me He's with me even in Japan.

Tanabata and Long Distance Relationships

"And ever has it been known that love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation."- Khalil Gibran 

Long Distance Relationship is not a modern concept. There's an old Japanese myth of lovers who only meet once a year.

How To Go to a Fireworks Festival the Japanese Way

Summer is hanabi time. Hanabi means “to see fireworks.” The Japanese have a special way of seeing fireworks. It’s not just looking at fireworks display. For some reason, the Japanese have made fireworks watching a cultural thing.

To go hanabi in Japan,

Wear a yukata with an intricate hairstyle

One way to know if a festival is being held is when lots of people are wearing yukata and they’re headed to the same direction. A yukata is the summer equivalent of kimono but lighter and more airy. Japanese people, esp. women, love to wear them during hanabi topped with French-sounding hairstyles. They look so fashionable you’d think they’ll have a sideshow with the fireworks. I suggest wearing a yukata to make your hanabi authentically Japanese. Make sure to do your hair too!

Go to the festival venue early and reserve a place

Fireworks festivals usually start at 7 pm or as soon as the summer sun sets. But, the Japanese would insist that you have to be there early. There might be no place to sit. There could be a heavy traffic and you might miss the festival. There might be no parking space. Etc. etc. etc. I’ve never seen a more patient people than the Japanese.  Expect a crowd in a festival venue as early as 1 pm you’d think Apple is launching a new iPhone.

Bring food and don’t forget some alcohol

A festival is never complete without food in Japan. Food makes everything feel festive. If you don’t have food, you just don’t get it. Food makes hanabi a social event. Japanese use fireworks festivals to be with friends and family. Imagine a social event without food. It doesn’t feel very social at all. The alcohol is optional but it’s so common I think festival goers have a silent agreement to get drunk on hanabi.

Say, “Sugoi!” or  “Kirei” whenever fireworks explode

Sugoi (su-goy) means great while kirei (ki-rey) means beautiful. The Japanese usually use these two words in the same way that we use “Wow!” or “Amazing!” The difference is the Japanese are easy to please as a people. What may be sugoi to them may not be great to foreigners. So even if they’ve probably seen the same fireworks explosion for several years, you can still hear the audience saying “Sugoi’ and “Kirei” with breathless enthusiasm.  

Wait until the last fireworks exploded before going home

The actual fireworks display lasts for about 2 hours. I mean it. Hanabi is non-stop firework explosion for 2 hours.  A friend invented the term ‘firework fatigue,” because you’ll eventually get tired of the fireworks even if they’re beautiful.  After a few minutes, you’ll just want for the fireworks to end so you can go home. But then again, the Japanese are very patient people. They’ll stay until the very end. 

HOWEVER...

Now, I wish I could say I did all those things when I went to a fireworks festival in Kanzanji. I didn’t though.

First, I don’t have a yukata  and I don’t have the money to have my hair done.

Second, I have things to do before the festival. I can’t spare time waiting and waiting.

Third, I’m trying to save money so I ate dinner before going to the venue. And I don’t drink. I brought some popcorn and a bottle of water, though.

Fourth, hmmm… okay I think I said that a couple of times just because I got used to saying them.

Lastly, my friend and I went home after 30 minutes of firework explosion. We don’t want to be caught in traffic just like what happened to us last year in Bentenjima. Last year, we feel very “Japanes-y” so we waited for the fireworks to finish. This was a bad choice. We were trapped in the midst of a big crowd wanting to go home too. What could have been a 30-minute travel time ended up in 2 hours. We’re glad that we went home earlier than the rest of the crowd this year. Saved us lots of time!

Even if I didn’t go to the festival the Japanese way, I still enjoyed it. I’m with good company who didn’t complain about the long ride, the crowd or the popcorn. I was able to do my laundry and clean my apartment before the festival. I didn’t have to push my way through the crowd when I went home. I didn’t have fireworks fatigue. I’m happy to have gone to the festival my way.

Fireworks are beautiful in however way you want to see them. You can go all out and have the full Japanese experience of hanabi or you can just go your way. It really doesn’t matter as long as you’re enjoying yourself.

What's the last fireworks festival you've seen? 

Check out Famous Fireworks in Japan here 

Sumo Wrestling: Japanese Culture in Massive Bodies

I was part of a large crowd gathered to see massive bodies wiggle and jiggle, slam into each other and try to outdo each other’s massiveness. Big booties were bared along with man boobs.

Guess where I am? In a sumo competition! 

Search for Sumo Tickets

I’ve mentioned in my summer list how a friend wanted to see sumo on her birthday. Her wish was granted last Monday! And I really mean that it’s a wish because getting a sumo tournament ticket is hard. You see, sumo is so popular that once tickets are sold online, it just gets sold out after a day or two. We had no choice but to get up early, fall in line to get the day’s ticket hoping we’ll get one. In reality, a very kind Japanese friend did this getting up early and falling in line for us. By the time we arrive at Nagoya, we already have tickets. (Thank you, Japanese friend!)

So if you’re planning to watch sumo, better watch out for tickets online or have a very kind friend.

I only want to watch sumo because it’s very Japanese. I’m not interested in the actual sports. It’s one of those things you do just because it’s unique and rare like eating balut (eggs with a chick inside).  I only want to take pictures I can post on FB and make people say “Hey, that’s so cool.” (I’m boastful like that sometimes.)

Uber Ceremonial, Sumo is

Sumo is a great reflection of Japanese culture. I shouldn’t be surprised since it’s an authentic Japanese sport.

It was originally establish to please the Shinto gods. Even until today, the rituals done during a sumo tournament are rooted in Shinto practices. Example would be the throwing of salt of the wrestlers before competing which is symbolic of purification. The entrance of the yokuzuna is also parallel with entrance of mikoshi in festivals.

In fact, sumo is so ritualistic only a fraction of the time is spent on actual fighting. Sumo wrestlers do a lot of posturing for more than 5 minutes then they’d fight for less than 2 minutes. Even if the fight is intense, there’s still more posturing than fighting. This is very Japanese. Japan place more value on the process than the product. They’re more focused on the how than on the what. 

In Japan, they have a tea ceremony but it’s just basically tea time. They have a lot of ceremonies in schools which are almost ritualistic. They do exactly the same thing year in, year out. Only the years and faces change but not the flow of ceremonies. Don’t matter even if half of the people fall asleep. They have to stick to traditions. Even eating Japanese food feels ceremonial to me. This is the way to eat onigiri, this is the way to natto, this is the way to  whatever-food-you-want. The same with sumo. It’s is basically just like wrestling but less intense, just like karate with less moves. But what makes it different are the rituals. Very Japanese, indeed.

Most Polite Fighting Sport

Not only sumo is full of rituals, for a fighting sport, it’s actually very polite- a well-known Japanese trait. From the 20 matches I’ve seen, only 1 match showcased an aggressive player. He repeatedly hit his opponent’s face to push him out of the dohyo. And he’s a foreigner.  (He lost, though) The other players used the usual grappling or making the other person lose his balance. I don’t even think the players would hurt so badly after a match. I think I’ll hurt more from a pillow fight with my siblings.

There’s a silent rule in Japanese culture which is Do Not Be the Source of Inconvenience. Thus, everybody seems to be polite. Everybody falls in line. Drivers give way to other drivers. People try to be quiet on trains.  Bosses don’t directly tell how bad you are as an employee. Friends won’t tell you that your breath smells bad. At the extreme, people would rather suffer than ask for help. This is the kind of Japan I see and this is how I relate it to sumo: The wrestlers seem more concerned in keeping themselves inside the ring than pushing their opponent. From an observer it seems like they don’t want to hurt each other. It’s like their movements are out of defense. They don’t really like to hurt the other player. 

I remember reading a commentary how the Japan team were not aggressive enough during the World Cup in Brazil. They lost because of it. A case of politeness, I think. In fact, the top sumo wrestlers are foreigners. Ironic for a Japanese sport, isn't? Maybe because the Japanese wrestlers are not aggressive enough. Sports that require a degree of aggressiveness such as basketball and boxing are not very popular here. Maybe it has to do with that polite mentality.

One-Chance Game

The bad thing about sumo is that it’s a one-chance game. Each match only lasts for one round. So once a wrestler is out of the dohyo, that’s it! Just one fighting chance. This one-round, one-chance game seems to reflect how second chances is not in the Japanese vocabulary.

Ever heard of hara kiri? It means cutting of the belly. It’s how defeated samurais kill themselves when they’re defeated. They’d rather die than be captured by their enemies.

How about kamikaze? These are the pilots in WWII who flew their planes in the enemy camp because they were being defeated. Again, death is better than living with defeat.

At present time, Japan has one of the highest suicide rates among developing countries. Old people jump on train tracks. Unemployed people go at the  foot of Mt. Fuji to kill themselves. Ostracized and bullied students forget to breathe,( according to their parents.) The underlying similarity with these suicides is the Japanese mentality of no second chances. They think once unemployed, always unemployed. Or once bullied, always bullied. Once defeated, always defeated. No chances of recoveries.

Even in elementary schools, all students must be a winner in a simple activity. Otherwise, they’ll just cry and feel bad all day.  I don’t know what they’re crying for when they can try again next time. I don’t know why they can’t at least make sumo matches a best of three game. If I were one of the wrestlers, it would be nice to be given another chance if I got pushed out the first round. It sucks to suck and not be given a chance not to suck. Even in real life, it's more freeing to live knowing you can have another shot. 


For a more comprehensive facts on sumo, check this. 

The Best 3 Things About Japan

For the nth time, a Japanese asked me what I like most about Japan.

And for the nth time, I said, "I like the cleanliness, the safety and the order." Always in that order.

Most of the time, those who asked me would agree as I elaborate. In this occasion, I got a curious response. He said, "Do you have an OCD?"  He then explained how OCD's are very much into cleaning, ensuring safety and being organized.

I haven't been diagnosed with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder although I sometimes think I might have a mild case of it. All who have seen my apartment always say my place is neat. A lot of people are surprised when I tell them I have a planner showing hourly tasks. I'm time-conscious. I like following routines, making checklists and cutting my pancakes into equal parts. So do I have an OCD? I don't know.

Whether it's because of OCD or not, I love living in Japan because...

1. Japan is clean. 

I read somewhere that the best way to check how clean the air is, is to check the color of your dried snot. It may sound disgusting but I think it's true. When I was still in the Philippines, I'd always have dark snots after taking public transportation. Here in Japan, they're always lighter even if I'd cycled on the main roads. (I'm sure you're checking your snot now.) Lighter snots mean cleaner air.

Aside from me having lighter-colored snots, I'm also comfortable using public toilets. I can even do number 2 because there's always tissue papers. And toilet bowls always flush.

On a less disgusting note, streets in Japan are free from trash and smoke-belchers. Parks are well-maintained. Rivers look swimmable and fish-able. Bus and train terminals are presentable. Even narrow dark alleys do not seem that dark. They also don't smell like urine.

2. Japan is safe.

It's only when I started living in Japan that I can safely take out my phone and wallet without fear of being robbed. I can go to the convenience store in the middle of the night without checking my back.

Once I left my iPhone at a public toilet. It was still there when I come to get it. I can visit places alone. My sole problem would be to ensure I'm taking the right train. I can leave my bicycle anywhere as long as it's parked on the right spot. (Otherwise, the bicycle police would get it.)

Even when my phone rings for tsunami and earthquake alerts, I still feel relatively safe since it also give directions to the nearest evacuation center. I could go on and on why I think Japan is safe. I'll just stop here.

I heard a story of a young man who lived in Japan for several months. On the day he returned to New York, he was mugged. He mentioned how he got so used to the safety in Japan, he forgot how unsafe other places are.

3. Japan is organized. 

Japan is heaven for me because trains and buses are on time. I also like how people stay on one side of the escalator and how people fall in line to board the bus and trains. When there's an ongoing construction, a bunch of uniformed people help traffic the roads.

I like the little bells in restaurants to call servers so I don't have to raise my hand or incline my head or even raise my voice. I also come to appreciate the calorie count of each dish in the menu.

Whenever a big festival is happening, I appreciate how the police anticipates the traffic flow easing what could be chaos. I attended a festival in Kobe where we had to walk for about an hour because the police made a circuitous route to hold the crowd. It was inconvenient for us but I had to give it to them for that smart but simple idea.

I'm impressed with how well elementary and junior high schools are coordinated to accommodate students in their areas. I even like the similar school bell sound all over Japan. (Watch an anime with a school setting and you'll hear it too)


Are my reasons for appreciating cleanliness, safety and order here because of OCD? I don't really think so. It's a simple case of appreciating something my place back home lack. I was just considering the best things in my daily life here. Cause really, who wouldn't love cleaner snots?



How about you, what's the best things about where you live? I'd love to hear it!

7 Things to Do in Summer

It's almost summer! I'm soooo happy!

Except for the suffocating humidity, I love summers in Japan. First, I have a month-long vacation. (Actually, it's not really that long. I just feel like it's that long.) Second, my friends are also on vacation. Last, there are a lot of traditional things going on it's easy to fill my calendar. Because with these summer events, I've realized that about this time last year my entries have become far and between. I didn't find the time to write.

To make sure I'll write my summer experiences this year, I'll publish my list of activities. (This blog forces me to do things, I think.) Who knows, someone out there might want to join me this year. This list might also give you an idea of things to do this summer.

This summer, I will...

1. See the Lantern and Fireworks Festival in Kanzanji

Kanzanji Lantern and Fireworks Festival
photo credit: http://shizajet.wordpress.com/2011/07/12/shizuoka-hanabi-2011/

I saw a beautiful picture of my friends in this festival last year. The sight of a thousand lanterns was lovely. I was envious so I'll go this year. This would be on the last Sunday of July.

Lantern festivals are common in Japan during the summer. They coincide with the Obon season. Obon is a time when the dead spirits visit their families, according to Japanese belief. The lanterns are supposed to guide these spirits to their homes.There's also traditional dancing to entertain the dead. I leaned from an old Japanese man that they have to please the dead spirits so bad things won't befall on them. Interesting, I think.

If lanterns are not your thing, summer is the time for Hanabi or Fireworks Festival. Starting this month, there'll be fireworks festivals all over Japan almost every weekend. This would last until the last week of August. In Hamamatsu, the Bentenjima Fireworks Festival draws large crowds every year. Japan Guide has a schedule on the major fireworks festivals in Japan.

2. Watch a Sumo Competition

PHOTO CREDIT: http://blog.instagram.com/post/73775162513/ryogoku-kokugikan-2014

Japan's the only country that has a sumo tournament so might as well see it while I'm here. I've been planning to watch since last year but nobody wanted to go with me. The ticket prices are also expensive. Then I learned that one of my friends wanted to celebrate her 32nd birthday watching a sumo competition. Sumo tournaments happen every other month starting in January. However, they take place in different cities. My friend's lucky cause the Nagoya tournament happens in her birth month. It'll start in July 13 and ends in July 27. She's leaving Japan in August and this would be our last time together. This is a good reason to forget "EXPENSIVE" and just savor the remaining time with a good friend.

3. Go camping!

I enjoyed camping last year at Akiha so I'll do it again this year. It would be better if I can find a different camping ground. There's a campsite I've been wanting to visit- The Tatsuyama Campsite in the mountains but I need a car to get there. How will I have a ride is something I still have to  figure out. <cross fingers>

Japan's a safe country to go camping as long as what you do is within the bounds of common sense. It's easy to find camping sites even for the whole family. To find camping sites in your area, visit your local tourism office. In Hamamatsu, the Bentenjima camping grounds by Lake Hamana is accessible by JR Train.

4. Have a barbecue party by the river

The Keta River in Haruno

A friend invited me to join a BBQ party in August. It'll be in one of the rivers in Hamamatsu. I attended a few BBQ parties last summer and all of them are by the river. I guess, this is a popular summer activity in Japan. The river provides a cooling effect during the hot day. Fishing, sort-of-swimming and some feet dangling are usually allowed in most small rivers.

5. Assist in a Youth Camp

Summer is also the time for youth camps. My church will have one in the second week of August. I've had summers in my youth spent in Christian camps. This time, I won't be a camper anymore ( which means I'm getting older) but one of team leaders. I don't know any details yet except for the dates.

In Japan, language schools also offer English camps to young people. Some ALT's earn extra by helping out in these camps. I've helped in an English camp once but it was in winter. Most activities are indoors but I still enjoyed helping out. I bet summer camps will be more fun with more outdoor exercises. Check Gaijinpot for a summer camp position.

6. Climb Mt. Fuji!

Mt. Fuji from the train

The only thing I look forward in climbing Mt. Fuji is reaching the top. The only reason why I'm doing this is for the sake of saying I've done it! (Yeah, it's pride talking.) I think most people scale Mt. Fuji for this reason, too. Who would happily subject themselves to this exhausting venture? Most people I know who climbed it once are happy to have done it but they wouldn't be forced to go again. Good thing that I've three more friends who haven't climbed it yet so I'll have company. One of my friends will be flying all the way from Hokkaido to climb it with us.

Climbing Mt. Fuji is a popular summer activity in Japan. The Shizuoka tourism office is expecting more than a hundred thousand climbers this year especially on the Obon week- the second week of August. There are tour operators if you want to climb with a group. You can also gather a group of friends who don't mind some adventure this summer.

For more information on climbing Mt. Fuji, click here, here and here.

7. Cycle the outskirts of Hamamatsu

Cycling has become my favorite summer activity since I discovered how lovely summer nights are around my neighborhood. For the past two weeks, I've been cycling almost every night. This gave me an idea to spend 3 or 4 days cycling around the outskirts of Hamamatsu. (Actually, I've originally planned to cycle around Shizuoka prefecture but I think that's too ambitious!) Though I've been in Hamamatsu for almost two years, I still haven't seen a lot of places because of transportation issues. I should have thought of cycling sooner.

Safe roads for cycling is one of the best things about Japan. Anyone can do it in whatever part of Japan. I know a couple who cycled around Shikoku for a few days. They said it was lots of fun until the guy toppled over his bicycle. It wasn't anyone's fault but him. Be careful is what I'm saying.


I'll end this list here. I think it's more than enough to fill my summer vacation. If I add more, I might not have the time again to write.

Happy summer!