Alison Soong

Hi Sensei Joe, Thank you so much for explaining the deeper meaning behind itadakimasu. I had always understood it as a phrase used before a meal, but your explanation regarding the appreciation of abundance—from the farmers and the cook to the plants and animals themselves—has truly opened my eyes. 🌸 It is profoundly moving to realize how this simple act reflects the high level of gratitude inherent in Japanese culture and philosophy. Understanding the complex journey and the many hands involved before the food reaches the table has given me a much deeper sense of humility and appreciation for the life and effort behind every meal. 🌿 I am so grateful for this insight and for your guidance in helping me see the beauty and intention behind such a meaningful tradition. It has been a wonderful, eye-opening experience for me. 🌺 Warmly, Alison🌸

Joe Bennett

Mar 24 •

General discussion

What made you first interested in Japan/Japanese?

#JapaneseTopicTuesday What made you first interested in Japan/Japanese? In the photo, I'm the one between Batman and Robin. This is from kindergarten and I was wearing a Japanese happi from Edogawa and a kamikaze headband bought in Japan. I had a little sword too and thought I looked like a cool samurai. 😅 To be honest, I was borrowing them from my brother. He had been to Japan to play football (soccer) against Japanese high school boys his age. My brother got souvenirs and gifts from Japan and I thought they were so cool and fascinating. Everything from Japanese Coke bottles with cool writing on them and coins (with holes in them!), to toys like spinning tops and kendama. Then, we were lucky enough to host two Japanese boys from Japan as they visited Australia to play against my brother's team here. It was amazing to meet these kids from another country and culture. We couldn't speak much together not knowing each other's language, but we found a way to communicate and had so much fun, always laughing! That experience sparked my interest in Japan. It wasn't until university that I formally studied the language, but from meeting those Japanese boys and experiencing the generosity and kindness of their families too, I knew I always wanted to visit Japan. That was how I got interested in Japan and Japanese. How about you? Let me know in the comments!

New comment Apr 24

Alison Soong

6 likes • Mar 30

There is a profound beauty in the languages that connect us to our history. For me, Japanese is more than just a language; it is a bridge to my heritage and my grandmother. While I grew up not speaking the language with my grandparents, I have come to realize how important it is to embrace that part of my identity. Learning the language of your ancestors isn’t just about communication—it’s about honoring where you come from. Beyond the personal connection, the Japanese language itself is mesmerizing. It has a smooth, melodic cadence and a unique tonal quality that is truly artful. This elegance is reflected in the culture of Japan—a culture that is vibrant, colorful, and deeply rooted in a fascinating history. What I find most inspiring, however, are the values woven into the fabric of the community. There is a deep-seated emphasis on being polite, humble, and remarkably courteous. In a world that can often feel hurried, the Japanese dedication to kindness and respect is a beautiful gesture that I believe we can all learn from. For me, exploring this language is not just about the words; it is about adopting that spirit of grace and thoughtfulness in everything I do.

Alison Soong

2 likes • Apr 6

@Shiv Monga thank you 😊 Appreciate all that you shared 🙏

Ev Ginguene

Apr 4 •

General discussion

Home made black sesame Ice cream

How to start Easter weekend! Accompanied by a soba boro from Ono city in Fukui prefecture 😋

New comment Apr 6

Alison Soong

0 likes • Apr 6

@Ev Ginguene I was so incredibly impressed to hear that you make your ice cream from scratch! 🍦 That level of craft is a rare talent, but choosing to work with black sesame seeds truly puts your work in a class of excellence. ✨ It is such a sophisticated and thoughtful flavor choice. Beyond the deep, earthy taste, black sesame is so highly regarded for its health benefits—especially for maintaining vitality and natural hair color. 🖤 Creating something that is both a culinary art and nutritionally mindful is truly special. It must be absolutely delicious! 🌟 Warmly, Alison🌺

Alison Soong

0 likes • Apr 6

@Fenny Toriyama thank you for sharing 🌹

Joe Bennett

Apr 2 •

General discussion

☕🐣 No Ocha & Chat This Week

There will be no Ocha & Chat this week due to Easter Sunday. Enjoy the break, and we’ll be back next week! 😊 🇯🇵 Easter in Japan Easter is not widely celebrated in Japan in a religious sense. However, in recent years it has become a seasonal event, especially in shops and theme parks. You might see: Easter eggs 🥚 cute decorations spring-themed sweets and desserts Places like Tokyo Disneyland often run Easter events with colourful parades and characters. 🧠 Easter Japanese イースター Īsutā Easter 春（はる） haru spring たまご tamago egg What are your plans for Easter? Enjoy your weekend and have a great Easter 🐣✨

New comment Apr 4

Alison Soong

2 likes • Apr 3

Dear Classmates and Joe Sensei, As we welcome the beautiful blossoms of spring, I wanted to take a moment to wish you all a very Happy Easter! 🐰 Learning this beautiful language alongside all of you has been such a rewarding journey. Just as the cherry blossoms represent a time of renewal and new beginnings, I hope this Sunday brings you a sense of peace, warmth, and renewed joy.🐇 May your day be filled with sweet moments (and perhaps a few sweet treats!) and the company of those you hold dear. I am so grateful for our shared time in class and the kindness you all show every week.🐣🌷 Wishing you a wonderful weekend and a bright, happy Easter!🌸🐥🐤🐰🐇 皆さんに、幸せいっぱいの春が訪れますように。🌺🪻⚘️🌹🌷🥀🌸🌼🏵🌻🍀 (Minna-san ni, shiawase ippai no haru ga otozuremasu you ni.) "May a spring full of happiness come to everyone." Warmly, Alison🌺

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Level 2 - Samurai

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Alison Soong

@alison-soong-1938

Passionate about growth and the beauty of lifelong learning. Embracing new challenges with a humble heart and an eager spirit. Always moving forward.

Active 3d ago

Joined Mar 30, 2026

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