I love the circling around and back of this story, Akemi. So often life takes us in one direction only to lead us to circle back and around. Sometimes, going back helps us go forward, don't you think?

Totally understandable that you rebelled against the feminine traditions of Japan. I would have done the same. But, how poetic that you now willingly learned a tradition that you once ignored.

Your flower arranging is lovely and a skill that will be useful anywhere.