Reflecting on 2025

As 2025 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on what this year has meant for each of us.

This year marked the 100th anniversary of the Showa era. For most of my students were born after 2000, the Showa era feels like a distant past, yet looking back, it is fascinating to see it with a fresh perspective. 

The other day, I was helping one of my students with a university entrance exam essay asking whether an examinee would like to travel 200 years into the future or 200 years into the past.

At first, the past seemed easier to write about. For example, people in the Edo period lived eco-friendly lives. I encouraged the student to explore what we could learn from that lifestyle and how we might apply it to our own lives today.

However, upon further thought, the future is just as compelling. We might all wonder about the technological innovations 200 years from now. However, it is equally interesting to consider how the challenges we face today --- war, economic inequality, immigration, territorial disputes, ethnic conflicts, climate change, stable food supply, building sustainable societies --- will be addressed. Looking into the future in this way reflects back on our present challenges in 2025.

We may be living lives that people a hundred years ago could never have imagined. Of course, there are challenges we still face, but as we step into the new year, I want to hold onto the belief that everything is gradually moving toward a brighter and better future. 

Thank you very much for your support this year, and may the new year be even more shining for everyone!