A Student Cried

I rarely talk about my personal stories with my students, unless they ask me too. I also don't ask about their personal stories and they don't open about it. Some would not just mind and are curious to know some little personal things about their teacher and some would also share about themselves, even complaints.

I just remembered that last night's lesson was the first time for me to talk about a personal story about my Dad. The student somehow asked if what kind of a man is my father and I said that my father is already dead. She was surprised and asked why and how. So I told her about it. And it made her cry.... Good thing that her video wasn't on because if it was, I would cry with her too.

A Hopeful Insight On Omoshiroi Article: U.S. Vows Justice For Slain Ambassador

Recently, we hear all these world news around us and some are in congruence with our own problems with other countries. For example, Philippines have territorial issues with China. So as Japan with China and with Korea too. The most aggressive move we can see, as per world news, is that Chinese people attack anything Japanese in mainland China.

On the other side of the world, we can hear such conflicts also but it deals with religion: Muslim people attacking US embassy in Libya is the latest one I have heard. Still right on with the senseless attacking.

Fortunately, I get to share this article with some of my expressive students.

U.S. Vows Justice For Slain Ambassador (13th September, 2012)

U.S. President Barack Obama has promised to bring to justice to those who killed American ambassador Christopher Stevens in Libya on Tuesday night. Mr Stevens was killed in an attack on the U.S. consulate in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi. Three other consulate staff died in the attack and five were wounded. Mr Obama said: "There is absolutely no justification for this type of senseless violence." U.S. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton asked: "How could this happen in a country we helped liberate; in a city we helped save from destruction?" Libya's interim president Mohammed el-Megarif apologised for what he called the "cowardly" attack, saying: "We extend our apology to America."

There is speculation over what caused the assault on the consulate. Initial reports said a YouTube video trailer for a low-budget film that gives an insulting portrayal of the Prophet Muhammad sparked the protests. Any depiction of the Prophet is prohibited in Islam and greatly offends Muslims. The makers of the film are as yet unknown, but reports say Egyptian Coptic Christians and an American-Israeli are behind it. However, media reports now say the attack was pre-planned to coincide with the 9/11 anniversary. Libya's UN representative Ibrahim Dabbashi said: "This attack…cannot be considered as a defence of Islam. [It] gravely damages the image of Islam."
Source: http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com/1209/120913-us_ambassador.html

There is a very small margin of Japanese who have religion. So in general, my students associate the article with the territorial issue between Japan and China. For them, it's better to talk over disagreements in calm, civilized manner. With that I have to agree with them.

It's barbaric to fight and attack one another because of disagreements in issues--religion, territory, violence, etc. You can even compare it with minor disputes within the family, friends, and other relationships. Nothing can be solved if one shouts and the other hits to make a statement. It just create more disagreements and more misunderstandings.

I know it's such a naive way of looking things but it's better to talk over the differences in a calm, open  manner and hope for the best.

Distaste For Others

It still is a typical work load even if I have a different schedule. It's still summer in Japan and students still complain about the heat. I have already stopped asking them about how they cool themselves or what they eat in summer, except for those whom I got rare chances to have lessons with. After summer, there will be autumn, and I guess it will be still typical for me.

One good thing with my routinely schedule is that, I can grasp those special things or special complaints, I should say, from students. Like today, I had a lesson with a this cheerful student. Let's name her K. She has already mentioned before that she has a particular distaste against Chinese and Koreans. With today's lesson, however, she expressed it vividly. She said that she hopes in the future, we (I guess she is referring to Japanese) will have a safe planet that is free from Chinese and Koreans. I asked her why and she said that she has been hearing and reading news about Chinese and Koreans cause a lot of crimes in Japan. I laughed to myself. I know everyone is entitled with their opinions, that's why I just listened to her while she was expressing her feelings towards that particular race. I just can't believe I would hear it from her, who has a kind and sweet voice and a cheerful character. I asked her if there are any Chinese or Koreans in her neighborhood, unfortunately no. I guess, she has a one-sided view of them. But I didn't expressed my reaction to her opinion.

I believe, regardless of the race, ethnicity, and nationality, people are people. People do bad things wherever they are, may it be there home country or abroad. It saddens me that some people have a general view of others. I guess it can't be avoided. It's just after all human nature.

As I've mentioned, I didn't say my reaction to what she said. It's her opinion and I respect it, even though it saddens me that there is a generalization. Teachers are usually encouraged not to raise controversial topics such as religion. I personally avoid topics about the connection of Philippine and Japan historically. But when I do, I try to be objective as much as possible. Thank God, I haven't met students who do not bash the rare instances of such underground topics.

K talked about it for almost all of the lesson time. I just listened to her and bid her good fortune. In my mind, I hoped her to be open about other races and nationalities because it's not about that that define a person.

10 things foreign guys do that make Japanese girls fall head over heels

One of my female students is single. In fact, many of them are single, career women. But this particular single, female student has some interests in foreign men, like how they are very much expressive of their feelings or very respective towards women. And today, I found an article that somehow answers the question in me and maybe this might be an answer for her too.

Here's the article:

10 things foreign guys do that make Japanese girls fall head over heelsBy Steven Simonitch

LIFESTYLE JUL. 10, 2012 - 05:47AM JST ( 180 )TOKYO —
While marriage rates in Japan have been declining overall, a growing number of Japanese women seem to be giving up on their male counterparts and dating foreign men.
So what is it about foreign guys that draws Japanese women to them? Kanae Hara at Gow Magazine writes: “Just this year, I’ve had one friend get married to an American and another to an Australian. Both of them moved overseas with their partners. They both tell me that foreigners are more expressive with their love and make them feel happy to have been born a woman.“

Hara continues by sharing 10 ways foreign guys express their affection that make their Japanese girlfriends fall head over heels. We’ve translated the list below, so be sure to take notes if you’re looking for some pointers on how to woo a Japanese girl!

1. A real proposal
“His proposal was amazing! He actually got down on one knee and, while looking straight into my eyes, said: “Will you marry me?” Then he handed me a diamond ring!” (31-years-old/Japanese, 34-year-old/English)

2. Flattering text messages
“His texts always start with ‘To the most beautiful girl in the world’. I think being able to use a phrase like that naturally is something only foreigners can do.” (26/Japanese, 29/Spain)

3. Makeup flowers
“He sends a bouquet of flowers to my apartment or work after we get in a fight. It’s embarrassing but I think it’s sweet.” (29/Japanese, 27/English)

4. Mornings just like in the movies
“On days off he makes breakfast for me while I’m still in bed and wakes me up by kissing me while saying ‘Hurry, I want to see myself in those beautiful eyes’. It’s like something from a movie scene, I never thought I’d experience it myself.” (33/Japanese, 37/French)

5. A flower for every occasion
“Our first meal together, the first time we held hands: he uses every ‘first’ we share as an opportunity to slip me a flower.” (30/Japanese, 28/Greek)

6. Leaving his love in a letter
“Since he has to leave for work early in the morning, he always leaves me a letter with a short message. I feel his love for me in his handwriting.” (28/Japanese, 26/Chinese)

7. Saying “I love you” on the phone
“He always says ‘I love you’ before hanging up the phone. I still haven’t gotten used to it and it’s embrassing.” (29/Japanese, 26/American)

8. The first and last bite
“He’s so kind, it drives me absolutely crazy for him. I was especially surprised at how he always gives me the first and last bite when we share food.” (32/Japanese, 27/Korean)

9. Eat, sleep, breathe, kiss
“He kisses my over 10 times a day while whispering words of affection. It’s just natural for him.” (36/Japanese, 32/Italian)

10. Pet names
“There are many different words to express affection in his language. Even when simply addressing me, he tenderly calls me ‘my love’ or ‘my treasure’. (34/Japanese, 38/French)

By contrast, Japanese men are known for being shy and inept at expressing their feelings to women. Therefore many Japanese women fear that dating a Japanese man will bring them a life of monotony, with no romantic proposals (some Japanese men propose by asking “will you make me miso soup for the rest of my life?”) and never once being told “I love you”.

So what do you guys and girls think? Are Japanese girls getting too worked up over cheesy romance or should Japanese guys start taking lessons before it’s too late?

Source: Gow Magazine
RocketNews24
External Link: http://en.rocketnews24.com/2012/06/28/japanese-guys-take-notes-10-things-foreign-guys-do-that-makes-japanese-girls-fall-head-over-heels/

Source:  Japan Today

Nicknames

When I ask students if they have nicknames, they will always say "Nothing" or a short version of their names. I already know that but it's interesting to know their answers. In rare case, though, some will say they have nicknames.

One of my students last night will go to Thailand within this year for business. I told him that Thais like to have nicknames. (I got the information from one of my other students. He was given a nickname by his Thai friends when he was working there.) I also told him that Filipinos like to have nicknames. So, if he would come here his nickname would be No-no, taken from his real name. He smiled at the suggestion and asked, "If Thais will ask me what's the meaning of my name, I cannot explain it." "Just say, no, no," I told him. He laughed.

Generally, students say that nicknames in Japan are only for children. Well, except in some rare cases like those two students mentioned. I remembered that one of my elementary teachers said, the sweetest name one can have is your own first name. I guess somehow, that's the way for Japanese....

Tanabata, Ochugen, And Oseibo.

July 7th is Tanabata Day in Japan. Happy Tanabata Day!

Tanabata is the day when the Cow Herder Star crosses the Milky Way to meet his love, Weaving Princess. This is also a day for children to write their wishes on a small strip of paper and hang it on bamboo trees.

I asked my students about it and they don't really celebrate it anymore 'cause it's for children (that's also because my students usually are adults). One student said, it's also the time when young people can dress in their nice yukata and stroll to some food stall set-up in parallel to the Tanabata Festival. One student also said that in malls there are some Tanabata decorations, like the bamboo, where people can hang their wishes. But basically, Tanabata is for children.


On the other note...

I also learned from another student about a time of gift-giving, which they call Ochugen and Oseibo. Both are terms for the culture of gift-giving in Japan. First comes Ochugen that happens in the early days of July and Oseibo in the early days of December. As per the student, there's no decided date for the gift-giving but it usually happens on the first days of the month. Such celebrations, of course, are signified by advertisements.

The student also mentioned that Ochugen and Oseibo are usually observed by adults who are married. They give presents to the important people in their lives who have helped them or played a great role in their lives. Aside from parents, it could be the relatives, teachers, bosses, or other important persons. Single and young people don't really storm in Ochugen or Oseibo areas, only adults he said.

There's no usual item to give on Ochugen or Oseibo because it depends on the favorite things or the things the receivers want to have. The student said that his wife usually gives an apron for his mother-in-law. This time, he said, he sent out some good beer to his relatives.


An insight...

It's interesting to know that there are festivals and celebrations in Japan that matter age. Tanabata for children, Ochugen and Oseibo for adults. I guess we don't really have that here. Maybe it's celebrated differently.

For example birthdays. For children birthday parties, there are games and a lot of children foods like sweets, ice cream etc. For adult birthday parties, there are drinking parties, alcohol, and maybe for the more older adults, healthy foods, I suppose. But there is always cake. So, in conclusion, even if birthdays are celebrated differently in the Philippines, birthdays are for children and for adults alike.

I guess Japanese celebrations and festivals are like a reminder of one's childhood and old age. The more  you age, the less happiness there is. But I don't know. This is the magic of the Japanese celebrations and festivals.

Once again Happy Tanabata~~~ And Ochugen! !^o^!

Belated Happy Mother's Day and Father's Day!

I know it's too late to post something for Mother's Day or Father's Day but I'm posting anyway because I'm always reminded how patriarchal and masculine the Japanese society can be and I cannot get away the thought of not posting it.

Two Sundays ago, it was the Father's Day and I supposed it was well commemorated in many countries, including Japan. Unfortunately though, it was a day that wasn't really a big deal for many, not so much when they talk about Mother's Day.

When I ask students about the usual presents for mothers on Mother's Day, they have many things to share. From carnations, which is the usual flower for mothers on Mother's Day, to jewelry and things that mothers want to get. And when I ask students about the usual present for fathers on Father's Day, they don't really give a unanimous answer.

One student--a Father--somehow said that the Japanese commemorate the Mother's Day more than the Father's Day because children are always with their mothers at home. The fathers are always out of the house for work and go home late at night. Fathers do not really bond with the children. So Mother's Day is more important and well remembered. He also added that he did not receive any presents from his children or his wife but that's okay. (Our lesson was in the afternoon. I was quite reassuring him that it's not yet too late to get a present. :D )

Japanese society is evidently a patriarchal and masculine society but the matriarchs dominate the homes. Mother's Day in Japan bear witness to how strong women can be, though they are still flourishing in other fields. And if Japanese women are given more chance to thrive, they might do a better job than men. Don't you think so?

Well, anywhere in the world, mothers and fathers alike are important. But like what our pastor at church said, "A home can live without a father but a home cannot live without a mother."

Belated Happy Mother's Day and Father's Day!

Being Busy-Japanese Style

I sometimes ask some working students (in our online school) if they are busy. They sometimes say, not really. I also ask if they go on overtime. They sometimes say, they do most of the time. "Then you are busy!", I usually exclaim. "But not so busy", they usually contradict. I always end up thinking what is "busy" for Japanese employees.

Till one new student defined what is busy for them. He said that if a Japanese employee is busy, they go home late, riding the last train at night or driving home at an ungodly hour. If they go home around 1900 or anytime before 2300, then they are not busy, even if they go on overtime for 2-3 hours. He also added that some companies do not offer a paid overtime. He thinks this is so, so that the the employee will have to focus on doing the work on itself and not prolong the work because of a paid overtime. That makes sense now.

"Here in the Philippines, overtime is always paid," I told him. He said, "You are lucky but the efficiency and productivity will not be so good." I have to agree with him on that.

I think I can say that I somehow understand what is busy for Japanese employees. From what my student said, I can somehow conclude that Japanese are very hardworking.

It's being hardworking that I always hope for Filipinos and me to conquer.

posted from Bloggeroid

Japanese Men

Maybe around last week, one of my students and I talked about the men in Japan. I asked him what kind of man he is, he said he is an herbivore man. Sounds strange right?

I learned from students that there are different types of men in Japan. The basic two types of men are carnivorous men, which they call Nikushoku Danshi and herbivorous men, which they call Soshoku Danshi. From the terms themselves, you can guess what kinds of men they are. Carnivorous men or Nikoshoku Danshi are the aggressive type. On the other hand, herbivorous men or Soshoku Danshi are the shy type of men.

I also learned from an article of Japan Today the exact characteristics of these two types and the different sub-levels of these two types.

Here it is:

Nikushoku Danshi (Carnivorous Men)

“Nikushoku Danshi” refers to men who are active in seducing women. Young Japanese women are said to be attracted to this type of guy whom they find strong and reliable.

Soshoku Danshi (Herbivore Men)

“Soshoku Danshi” are passive types who are shy about relationships. Many do not have a girlfriend and are content just to be friends. According to marriage consulting company PARTNER AGENT’s survey of 400 single men who are around 30 years old, 75% said that they think they are “Soshoku Danshi.”

“Gyoshoku Danshi” (Fish-eating Men)

“Gyoshoku Danshi” are not as aggressive as “Nikushoku Danshi.” They tend to be very patient and will wait until the woman they are attracted to starts to love them. They are usually smart and calm. There are various sub-categories for “Gyoshoku Danshi”—men who have bit of a wild streak are called the “Grilled fish with salt type;” men who think of themselves as all-knowing are the “Teriyaki type;” men who are patient are the “Boiled fish type;” while the narcissists are the “Meuniere type.”

“Rolled cabbage Danshi” (Rolled cabbage Men)

“Rolled cabbage Danshi” look like “Soshoku Danshi” and have a low-key fashion style and appearance (they like to wear cardigans and sneakers). However, their personality is actually “Nikushoku Danshi”—sort of like a hamburger in a cabbage roll. When women get close to them and they go out for a drink together, the men turn into “Nikushoku Danshi.”

“Creamy Danshi” (Creamy men)

“Creamy Danshi” have a sweet smile, beautiful skin and mainly black hair. They are hard workers. They care about a woman’s feelings, are good listeners and give good responses. Though their appearance is soft and sweet, they have a masculine personality also, so they can be relied upon to support women if something happens. They “heal” women like sweets, hence the term “Creamy Danshi.”

“Rikei Danshi” (Science Men)

“Rikei Danshi” think things out logically like scientists. They are defined as telling old jokes, inflexible, thinking logically, not good at relationships with people, and not good at gossip conversation. Their communication is usually predictable and they treat jokes logically, analyzing them. They are not used to communicating with women and don’t keep up with trends and fashion, so they are not good at humorous conversation.

“Biyo Danshi” (Beauty Men)

“Biyo Danshi” are fastidious about their hairstyle and skin. They are defined as loving themselves the best, their way of communication is a little childish, they are moody and carefree about time. They also care how other people think of them.

“Culture Danshi” (Culture Men)

“Culture Danshi” like subculture. They are defined as bookworms, like indie films and minor things, they are not good in public, and care about their individuality. They’re into literature, films, music and the humanities. They are happy when someone sympathizes with their feelings. Japanese actor Joe Odagiri is an example of “Culture Danshi.” He is a scriptwriter and director of the 2009 movie “Sakurana hitotachi” (Cherry blossom like people).

“Fashion Danshi” (Fashion Men)

“Fashion Danshi” love brand new trends and rare items. They are defined as caring how they look, narcissistic, being too proud, chasing ideals, having information and knowledge about cutting-edge fashion and love temporary things such as accessories. They get new things sooner than other people and like to be the first ones to wear or own them.

“Ryori Danshi” (Cooking Men)

“Ryori Danshi” love to cook meals and prepare bento (boxed lunches). They are defined as perfectionists, dislike being conspicuous, have a good planning ability, and work hard little by little. Many of them started to cook to learn better nutritional habits and save money. Now they love cooking. They have various menu repertories, especially for bentos.

Actually, men who make their own bento are called “Bento Danshi.” Japanese actor Mokomichi Hayami is an example of “Ryori Danshi” and he has his own cooking show section “MOCO’S Kitchen” in the TV program “ZIP!” on NTV. He has published cookbooks such as “Hayami Mokomichi ga tsukuru 50 no recipe kimi to tabetara, kitto oishii.” (50 recipes from Mokomichi Hamami that are delicious to eat together) and “MOCO meshi kimi wo egao ni suru ryouri” (MOCO meals to make you smile). Actor Osamu Mukai is another example of “Ryori Danshi.” He plays a French chef in the Fuji TV drama “Hungry!”

“Outdoor Danshi” (Outdoor Men)

“Outdoor Danshi” love outdoor activities and being in touch with nature. They are defined as being strict on themselves, doing things without saying much, good at cooking, and often dress in sports wear. “Outdoor Danshi” include sociable people who enjoy camping, hiking in the mountains and like the sea. They usually can do things by themselves, so they don’t rely on women much. Japanese actor Eita is an example of “Outdoor Danshi.” He says he has liked communing with nature from childhood and mountain climbing since last year.

“Otaku Danshi” (Geek Men)

“Otaku Danshi” are maniacs about their hobbies. They don’t pay too much attention to their appearance, are a bit shy, speak passionately about their interests and talk faster than others. They like to hang out with people who have the same hobby. They are not good at communicating with women unless the woman can talk about his hobby.

“Otomekei Danshi” (Girly type Men)

“Otomekei Danshi” love sweets and pretty things, just like a girl. They are defined as loving sweets, having girly hobbies, neutral appearance, having pretty accessories, and the opposite personality of “Nikushoku Danshi.” They are mild-mannered.

Here, we also have some different types of men but not really categorized interestingly like the Japanese men are. So guys, which type of Japanese man are you? Girls, what type of Japanese man do you like. :D

Taken from: Japan Today Lifestyle

Love Letter

Today, I received a letter of an apology for being absent from one student. I usually get those kinds of letters written in their broken English. Sometimes, they send it to me directly and sometimes they send it through the office and the staff sends it to me. But this letter today is different.

Here it is:

こんにちは。

今日の１６：００のレッスンで、応答がこないと思っていたら・・　ワイアレスのスイッチが

オフになっている事に、旦那さんが帰ってきてからわかりました。

私が　パソコンがあまり使えないので・・。

先生に　またまた　申し訳なかったです。

すみませんでした。

I consulted Google Translate with this and it said:

Hello.

Wireless switches · 4:00 PM I thought today's lesson, the childdoes not respond and

Was found to be turned off, comes back from her husband.

I can not use PC-much.

I did not apologize once again to the teacher.

I'm sorry.

Even though with the translation from Google Translate, it still doesn't make sense to me. I can read some of the characters so I know she is sorry. And I guess, she also said that she knew that the lesson will be at 1600 but the connection was not responding. And she found that their wireless switch was turned on but she still needs to wait for her husband to return. She doesn't use the PC so much, so, she doesn't know about it too well. She also mentioned that she didn't apologize to the teacher, so for that, she is very sorry. Isn't it sweet?

I hope I can read Japanese well so I don't have to consult with translators anymore. Translators can be handy sometimes but not so good with complex sentences. So, still the best resort is to learn Japanese. It can be helpful for students like her and it can be easier to explain English terms exactly.

So, in response to her letter, I gave her private message in English. That will serve as her homework. :D

It's always nice to receive apology emails/ private messages from students who miss your lessons. It makes you feel important and it really shows their eagerness to have a lesson with you. It gives you more inspiration to improve your teaching skills and interaction with the student. And you'll know for sure that the student will definitely book you again the next time.

A Different Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day in the Philippines is an important celebration of LOVE, LOVE, LOVE! Though it's not a national holiday, it's a day where people share or confess their love to their family, sweetheart, spouses, friends, and to people who they really care about. You will know everyone's at it because they will greet you "Happy Valentine's Day" or "Happy Hearts' Day" and other similar greetings. There are also many heart stuffs everywhere, not only in the malls and restaurants, you can also see them in some classrooms or offices. Radio stations and local TV channels also showcase Valentine greetings. It's not really big like Christmas or New Year, but because of LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, that's what it makes it BIG.

However, in Japan, it's quite different. I'm always excited to know how they celebrate holidays and events. That's why I would always ask students what they think about it or what they do during that day--just like what I did last Christmas and New Year. So for this time, the Valentine's Day.

Some students say that Valentine's Day is the day for young girls-- in elementary to high-school-- to confess their feelings to the guy who they like. And they wait for the response on White Day, which is on March 14th, which is a day for the guy's turn to return the chocolates that they received on Valentine's Day or to give a response to the confessed feelings of the girl. Sounds weird right? Why not respond to it on the same day?

I found an article from Japan Today's Lifestyle section that tells also about Valentine's Day in Japan. Let me write it for you here:

Lots of chocolate, but little love on Valentine’s Day in Japan

Ah, Valentine’s Day. That most romantic of times is just around the corner. That means roses and chocolates, right?

Wrong. Guys, take note. If you get lots of chocolates from women in your office on Valentine’s Day, don’t get the wrong idea. They don’t all love you. They might not even like you. It’s probably “giri-choco” (obligation chocolate), a custom that bemuses foreigners (and foreign media) each year at this time.

Love has very little to do with Valentine’s Day in Japan, and it’s been that way for a long time.

So who took the love out of the day?

The confectionery companies, of course. Morozoff reportedly introduced Valentine’s Day to Japan in 1936 and again in 1952, but Mary Chocolate claims to have got the ball rolling in 1958, which is the first time, according to the company, chocolate was sold in Japan for Valentine’s Day. The gifts were promoted as “lover’s day” treats at a counter in Isetan department store in Shinjuku. But marketers quickly realized that Japanese men did not have a tradition of giving chocolates to their sweethearts, so they hit upon the idea of promoting the day as an occasion when women could give chocolates to the men in their life.

But then they took it a step further. Since each customer buying chocolates for one boyfriend or husband wouldn’t result in many sales, they packaged Valentine’s Day as a way to show appreciation for all the men in a girl’s life, including male coworkers. Nowadays, it’s not unusual for some women to buy a small chocolate for each guy in her office.

However, love hasn’t been completely abandoned on Valentine’s Day. Besides “giri-choco,” there is “honmei-choco” for the real thing.

How popular is the custom, anyway? In 2010, online researcher Macromill polled working women on their attitudes toward giving chocolates. Of the 515 responses from Japanese women aged 20-39, 78% said they always buy chocolates for Valentine’s Day. Of them, 71% give chocolates to their husbands and/or boyfriends, 48% to their bosses, 44% to male family members and 37% to coworkers. The two most common reasons for continuing the custom of “giri-choco” were: “It contributes to smooth communication in the workplace” and “It will get me a better evaluation at the company.”

Now, lest you think all this is unfair for women, the marketing gurus, in all their wisdom, then came up with White Day on March 14 — meant to be an occasion when men reciprocate with something sweet. The origins of White Day are also open to debate, but the custom can be traced back to 1965, when it was introduced by a marshmallow manufacturing company to drive up sales of its sugary product. By the 1980s, white chocolates replaced marshmallows as the preferred gift, but since then, candy, flowers—even underwear—have become popular presents. Whatever the item, it is known in Japanese as “sanbai-gaeshi” (triple value) because it is supposed to be three times greater than the value of the chocolates the guy got on Valentine’s Day.

Whether it is “giri-choco or “honmei-choco,” Valentine’s Day is big business in Japan. According to the Chocolate & Cocoa Association of Japan, of the 406 billion in annual sales of chocolate in 2010, approximately 53% came during the month leading up to Feb 14. It is not unusual for confectionery companies to spend the bulk of their yearly marketing budget on Valentine’s Day.

Just as they do with Halloween and Christmas, retailers begin their Valentine’s merchandising campaigns well in advance, often in mid-January. From Feb 1 and even earlier, department stores, supermarkets and convenience stores set up huge red displays full of goodies. Some department stores, such as Takashimaya in Nihonbashi and Mitsukoshi in Ginza, for example, dedicate an entire floor to gift chocolates, with up to 50 brands represented. The stores predictably give their campaigns French names names like “Amour du Chocolat!” or “Mont d’Amour.”

In recent years, the European brands have conquered Japan. During their campaigns, department stores often bring the chocolate makers from Europe to be on hand to talk with shoppers and give chocolate-making demonstrations. Department stores also report that in recent years, there has been an increasing number of women who buy expensive chocolates for themselves, rather than for men.

http://www.japantoday.com/category/lifestyle/view/lots-of-chocolate-but-little-love-on-valentines-day-in-japan

From that article we would see a glimpse of the Japanese Valentine's Day. Not so romantic compared to here and more of an obligation for some. I asked some students if what day is romantic, they would say it's Christmas Day. I learned before (maybe I haven't talked about it last December) that Christmas Day is more of like a day for the couples, thus romance and sweetness is associated with that day and not so much on Valentine's Day.

Some curious students also asked me if we (Filipinos) celebrate Valentine's Day as a religious event. I told that though Valentine's Day is a commemoration of a saint we don't celebrate Valentine's Day as a religious event. It's a day where we commemorate the big L-O-V-E.

Others asked what would I do on this day or would I receive any thing special, I told them that I would just work, work, work, thus a normal day for me. LOL

I always have fun talking with students about events, especially about events that are differently celebrated in Japan. They give me a tour about Japan with their experiences, opinions, and their practices. They even give me more information compared to online encyclopedias and books. This is indeed one of the perks working as an HBOET.

I'm still in the middle of my shift. I still have four more lessons to go, that means four more students to torment with the Valentine fever in me. hehehe

Happy Valentine's Day again! XOXO

The importance of blood type in Japanese culture

Oh my! Quite a long update!

Anyway...

I guess, I haven't shared to you about the importance of blood types for Japanese. Some students have discussed this topic with me and it's amazing how important it is to know the blood type of your partner, sweetheart, loved one.

Today, I found this article today from JapanToday.com. I'll copy/paste it because they delete old articles in the future. It would be such a waste not to share this with you.

The importance of blood type in Japanese culture

LIFESTYLE JAN. 20, 2012 - 06:00AM JST

TOKYO —

It is a good idea to know your blood type. While most Japanese know their blood type, many foreigners do not (and Japanese are frequently surprised to hear this).

Many Japanese people believe that each blood type has a certain personality and affinity, so it is common for them to ask someone their blood type or try to guess someone’s blood type by their personality. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for women in their 20s and 30s to even select a prospective husband based on his blood type.

There are many books about the various blood type personalities. For example, “A, B, O, AB gata jibun no setsumeisho” (A Guide to A, B, O, AB blood types), written by an unknown author who uses the pen name Jamais Jamais, have become best sellers in Japan.

Here is a look at what it’s all about.

General personality of people who have type A blood

—Consider things carefully

—Can understand other people’s feelings easily

—Kind

—Good at hospitality

—Don’t express themselves in order to avoid possible quarrel

—Do things carefully and steadily, and don’t take the next step if they are not satisfied

—Honor student types who don’t go off the rail

—Fastidious

—Big on cleanliness

—Can be calm even when accidents happen

—Strong on taking responsibility

—Hard workers

—Safe drivers

Type A blood people’s affinity with each blood type

Partner who is type A – They have many common points; however, both of them are highly strung, so they may be irritated by each other.

Partner who is type B – Type A person envies type B’s happy-go-lucky personality. However, type A person worries about type B person’s personality.

Partner who is type AB – Type AB person is reliable for type A, someone they can turn to for good advice and help. They can have a stable love relationship.

Partner who is type O – Type O person is protective of type A. However, if type A talks about every small thing, the relationship won’t be good.

General personality of people who have type B blood

—Like to go their own way

—Do what they want without considering other people’s feelings, rules and customs

—Happy-go-lucky and masters of breaking rules

—Optimistic

—Friendly and open their heart to anybody

—Not pretentious

—Afraid of being alone

—Get lonely easily

—Quick to adapt

—Flexible thinkers

—Pragmatists

—Don’t chase a dream much

—Like to play

—Love festivals and parties

—Have been in love many times

—Don’t get heart-broken over lost love

Type B blood people’s affinity with each blood type person

Partner who is type A – Type A person is always willing to help type B person; however, they get tired of each other easily. Type A often complains to type B.

Partner who is type B – Both of them are not careful, so they may do things that are off the rail.

Partner who is type AB – They attract each other and they may quickly start a relationship. They love each other very much.

Partner who is type O – They can understand each other easily. Type O person covers for type B person’s bad points. They are a great match for friendship.

General personality of people who have type AB blood

—Chase ideals and dreams

—Don’t have secular needs such as greed and a desire to succeed

—Have strong spirituality

—Calm and rational

—Sensitive and easily hurt

—Have a complicated personality

—Private life is important

—Don’t like interference from other people

—Have various hobbies

—Vigorous in pursuit of knowledge in wide range of fields

—Are bookworms

—Have unique ideas and are creative

—Have fairy tale-like hobbies

—Calm and frank about love relationship

Type AB blood people’s affinity with each blood type person

Partner who is type A – Type AB person respects type A person, and they have a passionate love for each other. However, they may quarrel frequently.

Partner who is type B – They are a good match and connect with each other easily.

Partner who is type AB – Their relationship is always proceeding along parallel lines. They cannot open their minds to each other. It is best not to be too close to each other, nor be too far apart.

Partner who is type O – They can succeed in business and at various activities together. They can produce new things together easily.

General personality of people who have type O blood

—Realistic

—Good at developing economic concepts

—Vigorous at earning a living

—Strong in face of adversity

—Romanticists

—Dream of getting rich quick, but actually take a steady approach

—Ambitious

—Go straight toward their goal

—Have leadership ability and often take care of younger people and people below them

—Very cautious

—Don’t care about small things, taking a wider perspective instead

—Devoted, but with a strong desire to monopolize

Type O blood people’s affinity with each blood type person

Partner who is type A – Type O person always wants to take the lead for type A person. They are a good combination.

Partner who is type B – They can talk freely and openly and have a comfortable relationship. However, type O person gets confused by type B person’s moody personality sometimes.

Partner who is type AB – Their thoughts are a match. However, if they are in the same “arena,” they compete with each other strongly.

Partner who is type O – They cannot understand each other basically, and they feel alienation easily. It is best not to get too close together.

Source: Ketsuekigatabetsuseikaku (Each blood type’s personality)

Dieting methods by blood type

Erica Angyal, a Miss Universe Japan official nutritionist and health consultant, has published books on health and beauty by blood type, such as “Bijo no Ketsuekigata BOOK” (beautiful women’s blood type) and “Bijo no Ketsuekigata-bestu Obento BOOK” (beautiful women’s lunch box by each blood type).

Also, the fitness and health magazine FYTTE’s February edition introduces a dieting method by blood type directed by Angyal.

Here is brief introduction to the dieting method.

Recommended diet for type A

Recommended foods for type A people are carbohydrates such as rice and grain, vegetables, and fruits because type As originated from agricultural tribes who mainly ate foods from plants. However, type As usually don’t digest dairy products easily, so it is better to have yogurt. Also, meat is difficult to digest and turns into fat easily for type A people, so it is better to eat beans and fish for protein. Japanese traditional foods such as miso soup, natto, tofu, and so on are a good match for type A people.

Recommended exercise for type A

Stress is the main enemy for type A people, so slow exercise such as yoga is the best way to relax.

Recommended diet for type B

Type B people have the ability to digest various foods such as vegetables, fruit, fish, meats, grain and dairy products because type Bs originated from nomad tribes who ate various foods to survive in their extreme environment. It is best to have various foods, especially protein, otherwise type B people get irritated and tired easily. Lean meat with low fat, especially beef and lamb, are good because they are easy to digest and make metabolism faster for type B people. However, chicken, sesame, corn, soba noodles and wheat make type B people fat.

Recommended exercise for type B

Type B blood people have high stress, so it is best to play active sports such as tennis and golf, and also try slow exercise such as yoga to relax.

Recommended diet for type AB

Type AB people have features of both type A and type B. For example, type AB people don’t have enough stomach acids to easily digest some kinds of meat like type As. Protein from soy beans is good for type AB people, as are some dairy products. Therefore, it is best to take protein from fish and soy beans, and other various foods such as vegetables, fruit, nuts, yogurt, and so on, with a good balance. Wheat, chicken, corn, sesame and soba noodles are not good for dieting.

Recommended exercise for type AB

Type AB people have negative feelings such as anger and hostility and it is bad for their body when they get excited too much. So the best exercises for type AB people are yoga to relax their body and aerobics to let stress out.

Recommended diet for type O

Type O people can digest meat easier than other blood types. However, lack of protein tires them easily too because type O people originated from tribes that hunted animals and gathered nuts, fruit and plants. The tribes ate low fat meat, so low fat beef and lamb are good for type O people. Especially fish with omega-3 fatty acid are the best protein source for them. Eating fresh vegetables and fruit is recommended. The early tribes did not eat grains and dairy products, so those foods are difficult to digest for type O people. Wheat and dairy products make type O people get fat easily.

Recommended exercise for type O

Exercises which improve the heart rate function and muscles, such as running and boxing are good for type O people. Active exercises keep their hormone balance right.

source: http://www.japantoday.com/category/lifestyle/view/the-importance-of-blood-type-in-japanese-culture

Enka-Singing Student

I'm feeling tired recently. Maybe because with the new SOP that is about to launch at the end of the week or maybe because with the full load that I got today. I don't know.

I forgot that it is a national holiday today in Japan. It's their Labor Day but there's nothing really special about it, except that most Japanese don't have work and school today. So with that, I got two students who are in elementary and I am going to share about one of them.

The other elementary English learner that I had today is a girl in the fourth grade. She is still a beginner but very bubbly and curious about learning English. It's very easy to relate to her since she initiates the conversation and is not shy when relating with a foreigner, like me. ^_^

She even shared to me one of her hobbies: singing. And not only singing normal Jpop or Kpop songs but ENKA! As what I have learned, Enka is a traditional Japanese way of singing. It can be very tricky since involves mostly the nasal muscles and the muscles in the throat. I have only watched Enka music videos and only a few of them to be really a good critic but my! The student is very good in singing Enka. And I can feel that it is something very special and you do not mess with. I want to hear her sing again!

You can read more about Enka here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enka

Thinking About The New SOP

Sometime, around this week, the new SOP will push through. This new SOP is along with the new system to record all lessons that we have. I don't know when exactly because the memo said it will start on the 21st but my mentor said it will be on the 26th. Either way, I am not so excited now after much thought.

I just noticed that sometimes, my students and I talk about some personal things. Though it is not really in a very open way, we do somehow talk about it. I ask general questions but sometimes the student cannot help to relate some personal things. Sometimes, there are students who initiate personal topics. Even though, I try to segue the topic into a more general one, the student will still steer back and go on with the topic. It cannot be helped sometimes.

Thinking about those cases, maybe some of the lessons will not be so interesting enough. As far as I have known, Japanese people tend to be really private about their lives. I guess, this goes with their English lessons online. I don't know how the students will react to this new SOP.I know some will understand and not mind that. But maybe some of them will continue to be on their guards and reign much of their enthusiasm. It will be an interesting result to keep an eye on.

Teachers, on the other hand, have no choice but to adhere to the rules. Sometimes, I don't really follow rules strictly in my lessons, especially with my avid students. We just talk about anything and sometimes forget the time. This policy will be a challenge for me but again, I hope I will not screw up.

It will be my off tomorrow, so anticipation and anxieties are also off until Tuesday. After giving much thought to this, I hope the new system will not push through.

Japanese Animal Noises

I realized I learned many Japanese words and slangs from various students. It's always fun to learn new Japanese words . It brings you closer to the Japanese culture, unlike from only listening to Japanese songs and watching Japanese anime and movies.

The learning experience is direct since you hear it from the student. You can get clear explanations and opinions from them. It's like having your own 3-minute Japanese teacher.

I've already blogged about two Japanese expressions not so long ago. This time, I want to share to you how certain animal sounds sound like in Japanese.

1. Chicken= ko ko ko ke ko
2. Dog= wan-wan
3. Cat= nyaa~~ nyaa~~

I learned those from different students who have heard those animal sounds from my background. The chicken is on top of the list since our chicken goes off like a broken alarm clock. Second on the list is the dog because the neighbor's dog barks like there's no tomorrow. Third is the cat because there was one time when one of our felines had a litter and she left one kitten to starve. It meowed, or "nyaaed" for three days or so. Students who have heard those animals have immediately asked me "What's that ko ko ko ke ko?" or "Do you have a dog?" or "I can hear nyaa~~ nyaa~~". I always apologetically answer for the disturbance. But they always say they don't mind and would further discuss about the animal that they heard.

Technically, HBOETs need to have a quiet environment. But there are days that some noises that cannot be shunned away. So, HBOETs only need to apologize for that. It's good though that most students are not so huffy about such noises. Again, as much as possible, it's good to have a very quiet environment conducive for teaching.

As for animal noises, I'm crossing my fingers on what counter part the sound of the gecko has in Japanese. (^O^)Y

Nominikeishon and Bureikou

In one of the classes two days ago, a student taught me two Japanese words. Nominikeishon and Bureikou.

Nominikeishon is an abbreviation of the words nomimasu and communication. Nomimasu means to drink and of course, communication means to communicate. This term usually applies when you drink in social gatherings or to have drinks with your workmates. So good manners should really be checked if you are going to have a nominikeishon , especially with your workmates. Nominikeishon in our culture roughly means social drinking, but more sophisticated.

Bureikou, on the other hand, literally means putting aside rank. Usually this term applies when you have a nominikeishon with your boss or other high-ranking people in your company and with other workmates. Nominikeishon with your boss and other high-ranking people in your company can be intimidating. So sometimes, hearing the bureikou word from the top officials in your company can be a good thing and will help you relax a little bit. Like the word means, you can set aside the differences of your ranks even for a bit. But, it does not necessarily mean if you the top guns said that the nominikeishon will be a bureikou, you will lose your sanity and drink yourself till your dead. NO! Though you will have a bureikou, manners are still important.

Nominikeishon and Bureikou are terms that depict the Japanese way of social drinking. In that case, I believe, this is one of the good attitudes of the Japanese. Manners are important in any situation. I think, we should adapt this attitude also.