In a time when we often find ourselves divided instead of united,

Be reminded, there is only one force that overcomes fear and hate,

LOVE makes US great!

Welcome to the ninth month of LOVE makes US great! This blog follows a monthly formula. Second week – bringing more love to family and friends. Let’s start loving.

Please forgive me for posting a little late. I’m on holiday in Japan and my priority is time with my partner and with myself – family first. 

Many of you are aware that my mother is Japanese from Japan. While I will always be gaijin (foreigner), there is a home feel here – I’m among my peeps. 

Growing up with a Japanese mom, she instilled many Japanese cultural tidbits that I didn't appreciate as a child, and now fully value as an adult. Honoring those lessons is one of the ways I demonstrate my love for Mom. For example:

• No shoes in the house. This one just makes sense – dirt and germs! Yes, I do this in the US, but not with the same dedication. Every hotel here provides slippers to wear inside.
• Cleanliness. OK, my Mom had clinical OCD, but even without that extreme, keeping things very clean was a must-do. In Japan, even restrooms in bus stations are immaculate. Growing up, washing our hands was the first thing we did upon arriving home. This was a great habit when COVID hit! Keeping things clean makes them last longer and makes spaces more enjoyable for everyone.
• Politeness. Yes, we say please and thank you in the US, but it is amped up exponentially in Japan. Sometimes it feels over the top, and I'll take that any day over the opposite. I appreciate the acknowledgement that we all share this space and must work together to have a more harmonious experience in life.

What life-enhancing habits did you learn from your Mom or parents? Honoring their lessons is demonstrating love in action. 

Love requires participation. 

Love requires sharing. 

Love requires action. 

Love requires commitment. 

With gratitude,

Joyce Aiko

(Yes, love really is my middle name.)