Monthly Reflections

I visited the Vancouver Japanese Language School and observed each class. While the children were studying diligently, I remembered the long journey of learning a foreign language, which I have experienced, and felt the strong will of those who are trying to maintain their Japanese language skills. I am also still on the way to master a foreign language and I would like to do my best together with them. I also had an opportunity to see some of the works from the New Year's calligraphy event that were on display. While the calligraphy was learned by example, the earnest brush strokes were full of individuality and were very impressive. I admired the more than 170 pieces one by one.
On another day, I attended a Japanese "Ohanashi Happyokai" (“speech presentation”) organized by the Japanese Language Teachers Association (JALTA) at the same Japanese language school and listened to speeches given by 19 students from elementary to high school. I was amazed at the magnificent presentations and was moved by the dedication of each participant to put their thoughts and feelings into their presentations. I know that preparation and practice must have been hard work, but I was also relieved to see everyone's bright smiles after the presentations.
 

I reported last month that I attended the Asahi Baseball Association meeting, and this month I was pleased to receive a visit by the young team that will soon be traveling to Japan. The players and coaches gave me a baseball cap and an autographed ball, and I had many conversations with them. I hope that they will have great games and a meaningful exchange with the Japanese youth.
 

I also had the opportunity to welcome returnees from the JET Programme and to meet with those who are involved in the programme. I was pleased to hear about their enriching experiences in various parts of Japan and their love and passion for Japan-Canada exchange. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.
 

This month, I was able to pay a courtesy call on BC Premier David Eby and had a very fruitful exchange of views. I also paid a courtesy call on Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, who moved energetically in a polo shirt and jeans, and exchanged views with him. As well, I visited the Yukon for the first time and was able to meet with Commissioner Angelique Bernard, Premier Ranj Pillai, Whitehorse Mayor Laura Cabot, and many others. I was truly warmly welcomed on all occasions, and the Minister of Energy, Minerals, Resources and Tourism, John Streicker, personally made me two connected paper cranes decorated with the flags of Canada and Japan respectively.
 

For the first time in three years, I hosted the Birthday Celebration Reception for His Majesty the Emperor of Japan as the National Day Reception of Japan, and the event was attended by many people from both Canada and Japan, as well as consular delegations from various countries. It was an opportunity to pray for the further enhancement of Japan-Canada relations and international goodwill.
 

I hosted a ceremony to honor Mr. Nagai Akira, who served as the concertmaster of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra for many years and has contributed to Canada-Japan relations and the Japanese-Canadian community through his various performance activities. I cannot begin to write about his vast accomplishments, but I was struck once again by his warm personality and love of music and people.