Hi, I’m Misako (pronounce as mis-ah-kow). I was born in Japan as one of the Fire Horse Women, considered to be “born into bad luck.” This superstition went beyond anyone’s imagination – my age group is 25% smaller than the one before and 40% smaller than the one after us. I am proud of my late parents who dared to defy the norm, and grateful that they left me their legacy of courage. I am always guided by them, regardless of how short our time together as a family was. My journey through many countries as a travel writer began as if they gave me a nudge. I now call the Pacific Northwest home, but I am eternally grateful for the chance to experience different cultures and gain a different perspective.
As a speaker of an Asian language, English initially posed quite a challenge. However, the challenge allowed me to learn more than just my second language– I also learned about its rich history. I’ve since written a book about my journey in English, Take Heart! You’re Stronger Than You Think, now published, something I never imagined possible.
As I embark on a journey into poetry and haiku, I embrace the fear. Initially, I was hesitant, worried my poetry would reveal a vulnerable side I’d long buried. Writing poetry in my second language opened my eyes to how poetry can express emotions. My heart soars when I write haiku and free verse, taking me on journeys through dense forests, atop towering trees, and beside babbling streams – where my heart belongs. Poetry has become more than just a hobby for me; it’s part of who I am.
My first Haiku poem and free verse collection, Quiet Wonder will be published in March, 2024.
I also enjoy taking pictures of nature. I know Twitter is not functioning as it used to, but you can find my photo collections on Twitter. The platform now called “X,” is increasingly unstable, and I’m preparing for moving to somewhere else. You can find me here: Bluesky Social, and Post News. For now.