It may happen this year, my falling.

But then again, it could have happened last year. There but for the grace of God go I.

So I guess there's nothing for me to do but to continue relying on that same Grace to bring me through this year. And what a frightful year this promises to be.

The past year was supposed to be uneventful, but it wasn't. My heart forbodes that this coming year will be nothing like that. No, it will be much worse, or better, depending on how you look at it.

Ah I wonder what will become of me and my friends? Will we fall or will we soar ever more higher? Will we sink in despair as we fail or will we exult in our victories?

I am scared. But as the old song goes:

I don't know where I go but You are there to lead the way
I can't see too far ahead; Go before me, hold my hand

There.

Once more I find myself here in Japan.

It is said that this winter is the coldest in Tokyo the past 40 years. Unfortunately, I missed the snowfall again. My flight last Monday was cancelled because the heavy snow during the weekend made it impossible for airplanes to land safely. By the time we arrived the snows have been swept and the skies were clear again.

Ah but next week we are scheduled to go Nigata and ski. It costs a fortune but then again, I don't get to do this often.

Again, my bosses are requesting for more people, which means that I will once more be pressured into staying here for a year, come August. The promise of money and freedom is very tempting, but no.

As wonderful as Japan is, I can never be at home here.