It's because I have full certainty that faith in Jesus Christ is the only way to eternal life, that I want to move to Japan someday to spread that news to the Japanese people.  After attending a "matsuri" or festival today, I realized how hard that goal could prove to be.  Myself and two of my Oregon friends were able to participate in the festival by being a part of a large group that carried a shrine (think Ark of the Covenant) around the neighborhood, dancing and singing all the way.  As I aided in the process, I saw fully how much tradition and Buddhism are parts of the Japanese culture.  However, I also realized that while I was carrying the shrine-thing I didn't suddenly convert to Buddhism and likewise (to some extent) Japanese-Christians can still participate in their culture without being Buddhist.  I was carrying the shrine around for the experience, not because I believe it brings good luck or scares demons.  That realization was very encouraging to me today.  Pray for me as I continue to look for a good church and begin to figure out what Japanese Christianity could look like.

Today I played with Teruki a lot.  He is really warming up to me and didn't want to stop playing when bed-time rolled around.  I will try to get a picture of him up, he's super cute but I keep forgetting.  My evening consisted off checking out a part of the festival (pictures below), eating takoyaki, essentially octopus inside a rice egg coating (fried), and attending the festival.  Afterwards we retreated to my house with my friends for the best curry I've ever eaten.  Tomorrow will be interesting as I have nothing at all planned.  I think I may go for a walk around the district to check it out.

Love you all and miss you.