Opinion

Life Worth Living

By CHRISTINE CUNANAN-NOMURA

This is my last column for Shukan ST. I have had an extremely enjoyable four years sharing my personal opinions with you as we watch Japan — and the world — change. Thank you for reading my writings, as well as for your support and letters over the years.

Lately I have been reflecting on and reviewing my life as part of a constant self-improvement process I undertake every few years. I would like to share with you an assortment of advice and ideas — some passed on by those much wiser than me, others I learned from experience.

Have a goal in life, whether big or small — but preferably big. We all get so caught up in school, jobs and everyday living that we often lose sight of the big picture (meaning the real purpose) of our lives. It's important to know what is most valuable to you or what major task or achievement you would really like to do.

Know yourself. Take time out regularly to reflect on your thoughts, actions and motivations; and learn from your successes and failures. Such wisdom will enable you to grow further as a person, as well as to communi cate better with others.

Never lose enthusiasm for, or interest in, the world around you. People who are forever curious and genki have a special energy that keeps them active no matter how old or young they are.

Cultivate passion. Feel deeply about worthwhile people, ideas or activities; and do something constructive with these feelings. Join an organization, write letters, attend meetings, volunteer for projects — in other words, be involved in something outside of your own life.

Live simply to feel truly free. Remove the clutter in your mind, heart and house so that you can think and decide clearly. Unnecessary baggage — whether material or mental — weighs people down more than you think.

Live beneath your means today and start saving for later on instead. Everyone should put enough money away for a "rainy day" fund or a "future life" fund because the time will certainly come when you will need some money — whether for an emergency, or because you want to quit your job, or even perhaps to finally pursue your dream of studying to become a flamenco dancer.

Help save the environment. We all can do small things such as using less water, recycling, separating trash, asking for simpler packaging at department stores and -- yes — sending e-mails or making telephone calls instead of mailing out New Year's postcards (or Christmas cards!). Too many trees are cut down unnecessarily just so people can continue this tradition.

Help remove prejudice from our society. The world has come a long way in making all people equal, but racial and gender discrimination still exists. Make friends with foreigners in Japan, travel and learn more about various cultures, and share what you have learned with those around you to enlighten them too.

Become technologically literate by learning how to use computers and the Internet. Allowing technology into our lives has both advantages and disadvantages — but more advantages, I believe. No other tool has ever allowed so many people to have the same opportunities — don't pass this chance up!

In fact, don't pass any of life's chances up!

Shukan ST: March 2, 2001

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