WHEN EAST MEETS WEST: September the Month for Moon Viewing

People used to make offerings to the full moon,such as rice dumplings,a variety of seasonal fruit and vegetables with Japanese pampas grass and bush clovers,and pray for the realization of their wishes. More often than not,friends were invited to join in this pleasant event and admire the beautiful moon.

Moon viewing also created a poetic atmosphere.Court nobles and men of letters often enjoyed composing short poems,while looking at the full moon.Moon viewing today is not as refined as it once was,but the Japanese still get together about this time of the year and appreciate the beauty and serenity of the moon,while chatting,eating and drinking with family members,friends,or working colleagues.

Warm Regards from Sunny, Cool Kitakyushu City, Japan

Hank F. Miller Jr.

Note: Hank is a former resident of Gloucester City NJ who now resides in Japan