Thanks for the comments, and for the words of caution. You’re right, we do all need to keep in mind that every word we post in cyberspace is publicly accessible forever. Data storage is getting cheaper at a phenomenal rate, so it’s safe to say that every page on the web will be cached somewhere or other, and there won’t be any way to know who has access to the cached files.

As for the concern about hiding dirty laundry…
I’ve been thinking about this a lot over the past 6 months and I’ve decided that I’m going to put most of it out there. The political involvement that my future may have in store would be more centered around policy reform, creative funding solutions, etc. In any case, I don’t think I’d like being the figure-head for any large group of people. Those are the people who suffer the worst of the mudslinging.

Thanks, as always, for stopping by:-)

Mind you, you’d better be careful what you write here and elsewhere - any flippant comment (or wayward tap of the foot) can be whipped into a media storm with a word in the right ear.

And blogs, myspaces, facebooks, well, people couldn’t make it much easier to track down their own dirty laundry with people establishing easily-traceable networks and putting down spontaneous thoughts on permanent record.

Just a small note of caution to go with the big banner of support.

Oh yeah, and no more fighting over who loves me most. You all know me well enough to know that embarrasses the shit out of me! Besides, if we keep up all the sappy talk, we’re going to scare off all the potential new readers;-)

Thanks again for all your comments, and a special welcome to my mom and dad who–I’m happy to say–have recently decided to joined the discussion:-)

Regarding this topic, I am sure you will make the right decision regardless of what it is. Number 1, you must be true to yourself and what will bring you happiness. There is only one person that can guarantee your happiness and that is you. Your concern for the welfare of your parents and Motoko’s parents while admirable and satisfying. (I now regret putting the concept of obligation on you the way that I did when you were younger.) But, we are not your responsibility. It’s nice that you are concerned, but we have lived our lives and have to take ownership finanically for the decisions we made during our lives. You, on the otherhand are responsible for yourself, Motoko and your family. I have never pushed wealth as a measure of success and I still don’t believe that that should be a person’s #1 goal. (although, it doesn’t hurt to be comfortable.)

Challenging yourself is always good to keep you motivated. “What doesn’t kill me, makes me stronger.” (I love that one. Nietzsche, right?) But, challenges should inspire you not direct you. At this point in your life, you can pick and choose your challenges. I know I’ve always stressed appearances and other peoples perception of you, but you are beyond that now. You are now truely the captain of your ship. Don’t be driven by: what you said you would do or think that you have to prove anything to anyone, (including yourself) because your life, and the world for that matter, is always changing-so your life and your goals have to change also. But, be ready for opportunities when they present themselves.

I have spent only a couple of weeks in Japan but I can certainly understand your affinty for the country and culture. I could live there myself, given the right circumstances. But, (sigh) I am a an American first and foremost. Despite all our faults; crime, decadence, lack of personal self discipline and general malaise, I still haven’t given up on the USA. So much for my soapbox.

If you continue to stay in Japan, of course we will miss you. (I always told your mom that you leave a big hole in a person’s life when you leave.) But the world is shrinking, thanks to the internet and we will always be able to make contact when the spirit so moves us. I think our family is very close “spiritually” and when we talk on the phone or online, I actually feel that you are there with me.

I hope you don’t anguish much more over your dilemma. You’ve always had a penchant for over analyzing a situation. Remember, there are no wrong decisions. Sometimes you just have to make another decision.

I love you.

Dad

Aunt Deb

Your Dad is right, I think you should follow a political path and I have said that to you.

Quite honestly Steve you ae the kind of person who will excel in whatever you do, but deep down you have a socialist, conscience and I don’t think you will ever be truly happy unless you are following it.

You have the kind of skills that can’t be learned,you have utterly unique talents and because of great parents, the confidence to pull it all off. YOU among all others are someone who can make and shake things.

There is no doubt you could go back to to the US and BE someone, someone whose name is on lists for people who give a shit how much people make etc, but your heart is too big for it Steve.
You are in a position where you can affect how people view Engish education here how people view foreigners here and I don’t sincerely think you an walk away from it.
Sorry if I am breaking all rules of bogging ettiquette here, but you talk in earlier posts about your size. You are the BIGGEST man I know, I am talking about the measure of a man, the real measure You are it. You are destined for greatness, you just have to ask yourself how you measure greatness????