What will you let grow?
In Japan, the school year begins in April, as spring is unfolding. For years this felt so unnatural because the school year in the U.S., where I grew up, typically starts in September, as the autumn season takes hold.
The back-to-school excitement of September still wells up inside. However, by embracing the Japanese calendar, I gained a growth cycle. I’ve come to cherish the spring and use it as a time to plant seeds of personal growth. I noticed a pattern. I tend to make deep decisions in the fall and then take action in the spring. I sort and choose the seeds in fall and plant them in the spring.
I’m full of hope and expectation for what I’ve decided to grow in this coming season!
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About the Author:
Hi! I’m Marci. I’ve lived in Japan for over 30 years, blending tech, language, and healing in my work. Through caregiving for my father-in-law with Alzheimer’s and supporting my husband’s cancer recovery, I discovered the importance of yoyu—having the time, energy, and emotional reserves to thrive. Now, I share these insights through writing, coaching, and creative projects. My upcoming memoir, Otosan, tells the story of those five transformative years. Let’s connect and create more yoyu in our lives!
