A Bond from the Heart: My Japanese Mom

Personal Note

I dedicate this story to my Japanese mom — the person who made me feel the warmth of family in a culture far from my own. She’s not just a friend, but someone who truly touched my heart.

There are some people you meet in life who make you feel that everything happened at exactly the right time. For me, my Japanese mom is one of those people. We first met through a mutual friend. At the beginning, she came to me as a student — I was teaching her how to cook Turkish dishes. We spent time together, laughed, explored, and slowly built a very genuine and deep friendship.

Later on, I visited Japan, and that trip became one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. My Japanese mom had even prepared a room for me in her home, which made me feel incredibly special. Japanese hospitality is so warm — honestly, very similar to Turkish hospitality. Their generosity, kindness, and attention to detail amazed me. The people I met and the places I saw in Japan left a deep mark on my heart. That country became a kind of paradise for me — and my Japanese mom was the best companion I could ever have.

Now, it’s her turn. My Japanese mom is coming to Turkey and will stay with us. Just thinking about it makes me so happy! I’m counting down the days until we can spend time together again.

Japanese people have a unique way of building friendships. They live with great respect, and that sense of respect naturally shows in their relationships. Unlike us Turks, they are not as physically affectionate, but they express their care through thoughtful actions. And they are so organized! When I was in Japan, my Japanese mom had perfectly planned every train and bus connection so that everything was within walking distance. It was impressive — and a bit overwhelming at first — since I was in a country I didn’t know well. We Turks, on the other hand, tend to be more spontaneous and focused on enjoying the moment, which made the cultural difference even more noticeable.

Still, having such a friend in Japan is something truly special to me. My Japanese mom holds a very precious place in my heart. She makes me happy, and she’s the reason my love for Japan has grown even stronger. Our cultural differences — especially about punctuality (yes, I still laugh about that :D) — and our small habits only make our friendship more meaningful.

I’m working hard toward my dream of living in Japan one day, and after meeting her, that dream feels even more alive. Because in that country, I found not just a culture I admire, but a person who feels like home. The thought of seeing her again fills me with excitement and warmth.

In the end, friendship doesn’t depend on distance. Even if cultures differ, hearts always speak the same language. I’m grateful for my Japanese mom — and for Japan, the country that touched my soul.