12/27/2025 Reflections on a Year of Change

Blog Update

At the start of this year, I intended to update my blog regularly with personal stories and reflections. However, time seemed to slip by, and before I realized it, an entire year had passed without many posts. For those of you I haven't connected with in a while, I want to assure you through this blog that I am doing well. While there haven't been major changes in my life, I continue to cherish everyday moments and memories. Unfortunately, I haven't had many opportunities to share these experiences with you all. Looking ahead to 2026, I am determined to return to the basics—posting more frequently and creating more chances to share my thoughts. I also hope to see your own updates and photos, so please feel welcome to share them!

Loss of Family and Friends and My Thoughts

Growing up, I often heard that with age comes the growing sadness of losing friends and loved ones year after year. Now, I have reached that stage in life. Over the past year, I have experienced the loss of my brother, my cousin, and friends, each of whom left a profound impact on my heart. The passing of my brother was especially shocking, and whenever childhood memories resurface, I struggle to accept that he is no longer here. My cousin, who lived to be 100, was also a cherished presence from my childhood, and her memory continues to shine brightly in my heart. I find myself reflecting on joyful times and the moments of support I shared with friends—playing music together, sharing meals during the COVID-19 pandemic—and I feel the absence of these loved ones in my daily life.

Social Situation and Generational Changes

This year, there has been an increased sense of instability in political, economic, and personal security on a global scale. The way individuals engage with politics in the coming 10 years will be a pivotal factor for future changes in society. In Japan, the formation of a new government headed by the first female prime minister has drawn attention, particularly due to its high approval ratings among young people. News reporting is also undergoing a transformation, shifting from traditional outlets like newspapers and magazines to web-based media. Young people now primarily obtain information online, leading to a decline in readership for newspapers and magazines. This shift is contributing to noticeable generational differences in perspectives and opinions.

Thoughts on Life and New Goals

Experiencing the loss of family and friends has caused me to reflect deeply on the fleeting and precious nature of life. Although we live in an era where people speak of a 100-year lifespan, in many ways, life feels incredibly short. As a result, I have set new goals for myself: to strengthen my relationships with loved ones and to maintain a sense of gratitude each day. In the coming year, I hope to continue playing in ensembles, traveling, walking, reading, and cooking—essentially, to carry on living my life as I have, for as long as possible. Since changing to a new medication for my chronic lung condition and maintaining moderate exercise, my health fortunately has slightly improved.

I sincerely hope that next year brings good health and happiness to all of you. Please let me know how you are doing.

With all respect and love, please accept my deepest gratitude.