According to studies, millions of adults worldwide are survivors of childhood domestic abuse, enduring the impact of trauma well into their adult years. The scars left by such experiences can manifest in various forms, from emotional distress to physical ailments, shaping the way survivors perceive themselves and experience the world around them. As a survivor of childhood domestic abuse myself,…
A Japanese proverb goes, 自己知識は万事の基準 (Jiko chishiki wa banji no kijun) “Self-knowledge is the foundation of all things.” Looking back at my childhood, I have tremendous compassion for that little girl who had to carefully wade through a complex world at such a young age. It was a delicate balance, leading a double life between the charming and sweet side…
Life’s challenges are not meant to paralyze you; they’re meant to help you discover who you are.” – Bernice Johnson Reagon As I celebrated turning forty, the coronavirus plunged Japan into a phase of uncertainty and isolation. Little did I know that year would become a defining chapter of my life. I wasn’t feeling like myself. I was physically and…