"Kochira koso" — it is I who would like to thank you for your reflections. If you are a lone wolf, I'm part of your pack :) I agree with everything you've said and related to it more than you realize.

The collectivist attitude turned out harmonious in this instance of enjoying a communal space with social distancing measures. However, I do have my gripes with some aspects of Japanese culture, where collectivism hinders self expression and genuine connection, but that may be a story for a different day. No society is perfect, but I appreciate these differences.

My father also passed away right at the brink of Covid in 2020. I'm fortunate I made it back to Canada to attend the funeral. The eulogy was the most difficult piece of writing for me, but also what I'm most proud of. I understand when you say it was both sad and an honor.

I read Kafka on the Shore many years ago, but your comment made me want to read it again. I'm certain it'd resonate in new and unexpected ways.