On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 20:21:53 +0900, "Ed" <gwbush@whitehouse.com>
wrote:

>
>"Raj Feridun" <rferid@NOSPAMyahoo.co.jp> wrote in message
>news:ucgurv0bdia321lbvmn9nga6mlb3f78prd@4ax.com...
>> On Sat, 22 Nov 2003 14:00:48 +0900, "Ryan Ginstrom"
>> I made that comment because
>> I was bewildered to read that some of the haters in this thread WERE
>> in the same mixed marriage boat. I don't think it gives me any special
>> insight at all. Like I said I just take folks as individuals and try
>> not to stereotype. It's a simple way that's served me well so far.
>
>Like Michael said, there is a glass of water we are given when we first
>arrive in Japan. After awhile, that glass of water consists of nothing more
>than a few drops of rancid backwash. By that time, getting out of Japan is
>not really an option. I'm stuck here until my children are old enough to
>understand that daddy hates this place and he isn't leaving because he
>doesn't love them. I can't leave because I have children in a mixed marriage
>and they will probably do better for themselves in this country than in my
>home country.

That's so horrible, Ed! If you really hate this place SO much how can
you possibly think it a better place for your kids??! I DO agree about
how it's harder and harder to leave the longer you stay. This too is
my experience. I originally came here 10 years with a plan to stay
only 2 years. 

But I'm not in the same program as you and Michael are apparently. I
don't get the glass analogy at all. I don't feel like a prisoner. I'm
staying by choice and I enjoy my life here. Yes, I miss my home too
and that's hard. 

>When they're old enough, I'm outta here.

OK, fair enough. As for myself I hope when I do "escape" home again I
will do it WITH my family.

Raj