Philippians 2:3

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or veil conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."


Being an only child for 21+ years, I have developed quite a selfish habit. I hated sharing.
I only cared about myself. I could care less about others.

Immediately after my arrival in 2015, I was blessed with three loving communities in Nagoya. Each community changed me a lot and pushed me to become more patient and aware of others' needs. I can't say I'm completely changed, but by grace, I'm getting better about sharing.

Two favorites: Aquariums and students

At work, I'm challenged by other great and thoughtful teachers. They always inspire me to think deeper and to teach better.

*ICAN (International Christian Academy at Nagoya)
- amazing, intelligent, wise, experienced, and helpful co-workers
- genuine, funny, energetic, and creative students
- understanding, supportive, and caring parents and families
- peaceful, quiet, safe, and convenient environment in Nagakute
- very sweet office staff

ANF Women's Fellowship Night

At church, I learn to serve others before my selfish desires (still a struggle). Many brothers and sisters seem to do it so naturally.

*ANF (All Nations Fellowship, Downtown Nagoya and Nagakute)
- Biblically based messages
- bilingual worship and small groups
- patient leaders and elders
- many families with young children
- post service gatherings/meals

2016 Nagoya Swings Anniversary

At swing, the senior members (and many others) demonstrates dedication and passion by volunteering. Their pure joy in giving to the swing dance group motivates me to be more generous.

*Nagoya Swings
- fun and comfortable environment
- very international and always have new comers
- safe and healthy way to meet new friends
- an amazing group of senior members who take care of each other
- a wonderful friend who generously gives his time from the start of NS many years ago
- getting to teach basics has been a very humbling experience





Prayers, thoughts, and updates for May 19,2017:

- Praise for God's love shown through community
- Praise for the change in my heart, how my patience for people have grown
- Pray for the ANF church to blossom and be the salt and light in Nagoya
- Pray for ICAN teachers and staff, for energy and rest as the year wraps up
- Pray for my time at Nagoya Swings, that I may show the love of Christ through kindness and in joy

Ephesians 1:11-12

"In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of His glory."


Who? Middle or high school age students

What? To teach through music

When?  At God's timing

Where? Japanese local schools

Why? Student suicides, Child suicides, Seppuku history, School children, Junior high

How? Attend music university in Japan for masters in music education, then take exam for Japan's teaching license



After being in Japan for two years, I've had numerous people who easily dismissed my passion when shared (...reason why I haven't shared publicly). It was quite discouraging at first, but I was soon affirmed by various incidents. I got more serious last Spring. What was once only feelings of grief and sadness, transformed into research and weekly Japanese lessons. Last year, my determination helped me study more about depression, teen suicides, life line preparation/training, and Japanese school environments.

I believe God has a way of placing the right people in my journey at the perfect time.  He sent a professional counselor who shared resources and case studies, a friend who was a life line volunteer, friends opening up about their years of struggle with depression, and people who faced suicidal attempts. All of this was very humbling and I needed to put actions to my words.  There's still so much for me to look into and I need to gain more understanding to the situation here in Japan. I have provided several links to explain more about the seriousness of this matter (above-look at Why?). 



Prayers, thoughts, and updates for May 12,2017:

-  Praises for my Japanese teachers and friends who instruct/correct me in gentleness
-  Faith in God's plan for me and rebuke any fear of uncertainty
-  For God to strengthen the missionaries already in Japan and those who are preparing to come
-  To increase awareness and the seriousness of student suicides; for hearts to be softened

~God's blessing of music in my life~

Proverbs 16:9

"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."

Since 2007, I knew that I wanted to teach music in Japan someday...but many questions remained.  To this very day, the same mysterious passion for this country overwhelms my heart. On top of which, my curiosity for the culture and the people are mutual to my passion. Many other factors guided me along the way in the past 10 years (Next Stop Nagoya).

I have been very hesitant in sharing my personal ministry/reason for coming to Japan....mainly due to my doubt and lack of faith.  Nonetheless, the past two years have been filled with blessings, growth, and affirmations.

With encouragement from teachers, students, sisters and brothers in Christ, friends, and family, I have decided to reflect on all the blessings and challenges I encountered thus far.  At the same time, I'm hoping to use this as a platform for prayers, thoughts, and/or updates.

Thanks :)

Prayers, thoughts, updates for May 10, 2017:

-  Praises and thankful for being able to live in Japan
-  Studying the Japanese language (currently N4, N1 is the highest)
-  For God to work through me and love the people here in Nagoya

Aki's comfort level in Japan: 100%