Some Unexpected Words of Wisdom from a Friend — “So, what do you think?” My friend, Nathan, from NYC called me last week. He is a lawyer “who never settles for less.” The money-grabbing, ambulance-chasing type who works for a big firm with a grand-sounding name and plush Manhattan offices. He is the kind of person no one likes…

Sometimes, being “lost in translation” can be fun. — Two overcooked salarymen entered the Yamanote Line train, talking loudly. It was 10 PM and it appeared obvious they had been having a good time. I was with a friend who worked and lived in Japan, and I was going back to my hotel after the conference dinner in Shinagawa. …

I was a heavy user once, but not anymore — Puberty can be stressful. The hormones. The insecurities. The confusion. And when you get older, you also realize it can be one of the funniest periods of your life. Insignificant things become your most significant worries. One of my obsessions was facial hair. The first “hairs” on my upper lip…

Why it’s crucial to focus on the little things in life — A favorite T-shirt makes you genuinely happy and helps you succeed in life. The soft fabric gives you power. Wear it and be ready to conquer the world. Conversely, a day without your beloved piece of clothing is so much more uncomfortable. It can even make you feel nervous and…

Why the gamification of life must be taken seriously. — Would you play a video game version of your life? And do you think such a game would sell? I know video games are not for everyone. Some see them as a waste of time — harmful even. “Video games encourage an unhealthy lifestyle or violence.” But I read earlier…

I feel like I arrived at the end of the party. And the fun is already over. — I was born three weeks ago. Expectations were high. I never met my father, but my mother spoke glowingly about unlimited opportunities for ambitious individuals. Do the right things, and your dreams will come true. With the proper education, hard work, perseverance, and, of course, a modicum of luck, you…

Might it foreshadow the beginning of the end of the world? — Not all trees are equal. Some are bigger, older, and more majestic than others. Of course, all trees matter, but not to the same degree or in the same kind of ways. Some trees become the focal point of a neighborhood because of their beauty, age, and scale. They become…

Welcome to a twenty-first century freak show — “Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages. Welcome to the world’s greatest circus!” The Ringmaster greeted us with a powerful, booming voice. His black top hat and bright red tailcoat with gold trim brought the memories flooding back. My wife and I were ready for…

“Always learn and experiment. Time won’t wait.” — My dad and best friend passed away last week — an unexpected, unreal, and devastating moment. Before I left the hospital, a nurse gave me his smartphone and computer. He insisted on taking his devices with him when he was hospitalized a few days earlier. “I feel well enough to…