My 21st Japaniversary!

Today marks 21 years for me here in the land of the rising sun.

I still remember well who I was on April 1, 2004—because I’m not far removed from him. I was no spring chicken when I came here. I was a full-grown man chasing something beyond my Brooklyn bubble before time ran out.

Back then, I believed I’d never know—let alone reach—my potential without shaking things up. I’d grown complacent, stuck in a mindset I couldn’t seem to escape. At least not without a drastic change. So I took a leap of faith from the nest… and landed here.What was meant to be temporary turned into 21 years and counting.I think it was a good call—but hey, the jury’s still out. It’s worked out well so far, though.

I miss my friends, my family, my familiar haunts back in Brooklyn. But that Brooklyn? It was already slipping away before I left. Still, the pull to “get a life”—a new life—was strong. And that pull took me halfway around the world.Life’s a trip, they say. And they got that right. The ride’s not over yet—and I’m still strapped in, pedal to the metal.Just want to thank the Creator for the blessings.

My mother—for the creativity and courage that's helped me so much here and everywhere.

My friends—for riding with me, and for showing me the value of real friendship.

And my family—especially my Miki—for making life here endurable, for giving me someone to love, and for returning that love tenfold

My first week in Japan, April 2004

And to Japan… thank you.For the inspiration.For the space to grow.For the challenges that made me a better writer—and a better man.

And for the tonkotsu ramen.

Love,

Baye