How do you like Canada?
Diversity. It is a place where many different races live together. There is a sense of comfort that I didn’t feel when I was living in Japan. I feel accepted in Canada’s multiracial and multicultural environment. We are all different and that’s all good…
Lots of nice cafes!! I can enjoy a tasty cafe latte every morning. I also like the fact that there are many cafes where you can drink a delicious latte.
Beautiful city. I also like that it is a beautiful city with lots of greenery.
How long have you been living here？/What brought you here？
I have been living in Canada for 19 years, since September, 2002.
I came to Vancouver on a short trip before 2002 and fell in love with the city at first sight. I had already decided to live here. I went back to Japan to work and save up some money, then came to Vancouver to experience life in English again. The working holiday system was also a big factor in my decision.
I had many choices of cities and countries, but I chose Vancouver because it is beautiful.
What do you do ？/What would you like to do？
I work as an herbalist at Balance Botanicals on Main St., where they sell herbs and spices by weight. I also work as an acupuncturist at Balance Acupuncturist & Massage on Main St. I am the mother of a 14 year old boy and an 8 year old turtle.
Drinking a cup of cafe latte in the morning at my favorite cafe is my MUST HAVE time. This is the time to set up my mind for the day and where I truly enjoy my cup of coffee and get inspired.
I love my work. I have had eczema for a long time, and I became interested in herbs and oriental medicine in order to cure my atopic dermatitis. Then I found out that the natural way is the best way to cure my eczema. I believe that the natural healing power of human beings is great.
I was doing what I was interested in, and it became what I do for a living. I am happy to be able to help others who are suffering from health problems because I was able to achieve my current health through this method.
What is your belief/motto？
Do what you love! Don’t think about the consequences. I don’t really make a plan for my life, because I know everything that happens has a reason.
I do what I feel like doing at the time. In order to do this, I have gone through some painful and difficult times, but because I had those experiences, I am here now. I believe that nothing is ever wasted.
What is the hardest moment you faced in Canada？ What have you learn from it？
This is when I made the decision to raise my children here, alone. It was the hardest choice I ever had to make. I didn’t think I was capable of raising a child on my own, but it was the only way.
Thanks to the cooperation and help from many people, I was able to get through it. I will never forget it.
This experience made me realized that I am strong. I can do it. I am now able to be grateful for my peaceful life.
Editor’s comments
I talked to her at her usual cafe. She was illuminated by a positive and bright vibe as always. When you are in a difficult situation, it’s hard to make a move. However, she was willing to adapt to change.
Her experiences gave her strength and flexibility.
Now she is enjoying her life with people she loves…and enjoying her morning coffee.
