[dogsbody70]

thanks columbine but when we are young we might envisage some sort of shangri la and perhaps some epeople believe that is what Japan is like. Obviously unless one lives there then even if one reads alot as I have been doing re history and culture-- But I have also seen films here that show certain aspects of JAPAn-- like when kelly osborne was there, they just showed things like geisha, and maids, and sex hotels etc plus she visited a school, also she went into a bar where you can inhale oxygen.

I for one do not think that Japan is only that.

My japanese friend is from the old school traditions-- and even though she has lived here over three years, she will always be japanese in her ways.

I suppose Manga and anime and cosplay is an aspect that appeals to young people-- but tha tis not reality is it?

even if one visits Japan as a tourist, I doubt there is time to absorb the whole way of life there.

When people post that they love Japan perhaps they are being NAIve-- rather like UK being seen as the land of milk and honey-- which it is not.

Rather that than say I hate Japan. After the war may of those who had suffered would never buy anything at all from Japan-- and quite right too.

Many people have short memories and young people may not know the truth of ww2 in the Pacific.

I admire their craft and language so many skills. Yes we all have to move on
but also not be ignorant or too forgetful of history.

The gentleman from Sudan is genuine, surely Sudan is not a good place to live and I admire anyone who tries to build a career for themselves against often tremendous difficuilties.

I feel we should not always assume that some posts are unwelcome-- I have seen some dreadful ones on here.

A little courtesy never goes amiss-- rudeness is often a sign of immaturity.

Anyway hope you are still doing your art. Music and art are one of the worlds greatest gifts and peacemakers. thanks for responding.