Taking a leap into something new and uncertain is both thrilling and challenging. For me, that leap was learning a new language—a journey that reshaped my life in unexpected ways. As a child, I was captivated by English. I dreamed of speaking fluently, connecting with people from other cultures, and experiencing life beyond Japan. This passion led me to spend a month in England to explore the country and prepare for something bigger. Soon after, I moved there for a year to study English and immerse myself in a completely new world. Living in England was transformative. I fell in love with the charm of cozy tea cafés, where the warm aroma of fresh brews surrounded me, and conversations in English challenged me to grow. Every day brought new experiences—navigating unfamiliar streets, meeting new people, and discovering a deeper sense of who I was. Throughout this journey, I embraced the philosophy of “Ichigo Ichie” (一期一会), a Japanese concept meaning "one time, one meeting." It’s a reminder that every moment is unique and fleeting, urging us to cherish each encounter as if it will never happen again. This mindset helped me fully appreciate the beauty of the present and treasure the connections I made along the way. That year taught me more than just a language. It gave me courage, resilience, and the tools to live true to myself. Later, my journey continued in the U.S., where I deepened these lessons and found inspiration to help others live authentically. Through it all, “Ichigo Ichie” has guided me to savor life’s journey and cherish the people and experiences that make it extraordinary. 🌸