John Schindler, Reflections

During my time at Chubu, my perspective underwent a monumental shift. My experiences here challenged my pre-existing notions and tore down the privileged lens through which I once viewed the world. Navigating this unfamiliar environment required adaptability. One vivid memory that stands as a testament to my growth is when I was led down a mountain by a troop of monkeys in Miyajima after being separated from my group. This experience underscored the importance of instinct, trust, and harmony with nature. Cultural exchange was a cornerstone of my Chubu journey. My interest in culinary arts flourished as I learned not just to cook for myself, but to cater to the tastes and preferences of diverse people around me. This taught me the languages of different cultures and broadened my horizons. Professionally, as a Film Director, my narratives often bear imprints from my time in Japan. An enhanced open-mindedness has led to a more natural inclusion of diverse talents and characters in my films. My global perspective has undoubtedly been shaped and enriched by the cultural nuances I absorbed at Chubu. But perhaps the most enduring lesson from my Chubu experience revolves around communication. The emphasis on listening in Japanese culture instilled in me the value of truly hearing others. In one transformative encounter, my friends and I transcended language barriers by inventing our own sign language. This experience affirmed the idea that where there's a will to understand, there's always a way.