Life as it is... living in Japan

I have to say I’m a fan of Yankees. I am not referring to the baseball team or the American population, although I don’t have anything against these two parties. I am instead referring to the bad boys of Japan, nicknamed ‘Yankees’. These boys are recognizable by their dyed hair, piercings, baggy clothing and general loudness. Most teachers find them a nuisance, always skipping school or sleeping in class, but there is a special place in my heart for these kids.   Miura Hamura Playing a Yankee boy in the movie Koizora I was walking along the corridor the other day and found myself surrounded by the troublesome trio; the pierced punk, the schemer and the brawn. The punk wanted to show me his new earring. It was an awesome looking black hoop, that is definitely covered in the schools absolutely no piercings allowed policy. Growing up I never considered getting more than the standard one piercing in each ear, it didn’t interest me whatsoever. The one piercing I d...

I’m not sure if teachers are allowed to have a favourite, parents certainly aren’t supposed to. But sometimes, chance brings together a special group of kids, and you just can’t help but think to yourself, if I were to have a favourite, it would be this group. March 16th was the day I had to say goodbye to that group at my first Japanese Junior High School graduation ceremony. It was a heart-breaking yet heart-warming experience that I am so glad I had the opportunity to have. This is how my day proceeded. To my horror I was seated with the third grade teachers, special reserved seating right at the front for all to see. Thank goodness my boss had told me the day before to wear a suit. There wasn’t a person present, parent, teacher or other that was not in formal attire. My original plan to sneak in and hide at the back would have been an absolute failure. Once everyone was seated, the third graders processed in through the back entrance by class. The clapping was endless...