yin yang

yin yang.
I know, this is a Chinese philosophy and I am in Japan - but I think that this is the best sentiment for today.
Here is the back info:
The essentials of yin-yang is as follows. The universe is run by a single principle, the Tao, or Great Ultimate. This principle is divided into two opposite principles, or two principles which oppose one another in their actions, yin and yang. All phenomena can be understood using yin-yang: the movements of the stars, the workings of the body, the nature of foods, the qualities of music, the ethical qualities of humans, the progress of time, the operations of government, and even the nature of historical change.
In a nutshell - all things follow a dualistic order so that they can be related to one another in some way.
What does this have to do with Mo in Japan?
Today was equally parts positive and negative energy. For example, I met my three conversation partners today and they took me to a wonderful traditional meal that is native to the Hyogo area.
Imagine this: a large bowl with cabbage sliced to the consistency of thick cole slaw. Pork cut into tiny, tiny confetti like pieces. A raw egg drizzled on top. In the middle of your table is a hot surface and your meal cooks in front of you for about 20 minutes until it becomes like a vegetable patty. Then add salmon that has been dehydrated and sliced to the constancy of paper and bathed in a sweet teriyaki like sauce.
Oh, once again - I love Japanese food! However, this was officially my first `tummy ache` if you will. It will not stop me from being adventuresome at meals, but it was unpleasant all the same. Oh, I felt so down and tired. Getting sick today made me lonely for the first time. I came close to crying at one point, but instead I decided to take a bath. This proved to be the best decision because I spoke with some very nice girls in the bath and they cheered me right up. They expressed some of the insecurity they have been strugglig with about their English, and I told them that every attempt they made to speak with me made me feel welcome and loved. We came to a mutual understanding in appreciating one another, it was really wonderful.
Another componant of my sickness is that I think that I finally caught jet lag today. I cannot help but wake up at about 5am, no matter how hard I try. And if you know me, you know that 5 am is not a time of day that would usually ever know exist. To compound the situation, I stay awake until late in the evening because I truly enjoy spending time with the girls. I must adjust soon or change my habits in time.
Well, It`s about 10:30 pm in Nish now and I`vebeen awake since 5 am, so I hope that this post made any sense at all.
I really appreciate the responses from my dear family and friends. On a day like today, knowing that you remember me and care about me helps in the lonely moments. Thank goodness they are so few and far between!
XXXOOO
Mo