February, 2026

Zootopia

February 22, 2026

I watched the animated movie "Zootopia" on a streaming service. The visuals were beautiful, and the technical skill was impressive. Some say Japan holds a leading position in the animation industry in terms of technology, content, and quality. However, I felt that Japan still cannot surpass the US. It might be an illusion that Japan is the overall winner in this category.

Voice input

February 18, 2026

A device maker announced a new wearable device that can transcribe and organize verbal input, such as monologues, discussions, and lectures. I think voice input might become an important part of my life as I get older and face the physical challenges of aging. Perhaps I should start training myself to use voice input more effectively.

Narrative

February 16, 2026

I listened to a discussion about modern society today. One person mentioned that we need a narrative to make decisions and establish social rules, but at the same time, we shouldn't depend on it too much. Another argued that it's better not to create any narratives at all when taking action. However, we can't help but have some kind of unconscious narrative. Perhaps we should try to bring those hidden stories into our conscious minds.

Emptiness of the politician

February 15, 2026

I listened to a discussion about the recent political situation in Japan today. They mentioned that the politician who gained popularity in the last election has a kind of "emptiness." People tend to project their own ideals into that void, and it becomes the basis of their support for her. This seems to happen unconsciously.

Invisible effort

February 12, 2026

I stayed home all day today. The weather wasn't bad, so it would have been a good day to go for a walk. However, my client asked me to update a system function. The task itself was simple, but I spent a lot of time setting up the test environment, running tests, and releasing the update without any downtime. I hope the client appreciates the effort that goes on behind the scenes.

Change of Rushkoff

February 11, 2026

I studied Douglas Rushkoff today. In the '90s, he suggested that technology would create a better world through the integration of human nature and cyberspace. However, his recent perspective has changed significantly. In fact, it is almost the complete opposite now. It makes me wonder just how dire our current situation has become.

General election Japan

February 8, 2026

Japan held a general election today. I had already cast my ballot through early voting. Most TV channels broadcast special programs about the results. As many predicted, the Liberal Democratic Party won a majority. However, I felt that something was different this time compared to previous elections. I’m not sure yet if this change will be for better or worse.

Stiff neck

February 6, 2026

I drank some alcohol, such as sake and wine, since it was Friday. I noticed that my neck and shoulders were terribly stiff, maybe due to the alcohol. I tried to stretch, but I realized I really dislike exercising. Now I'm wondering: if I don't drink, I won't notice the stiffness, but alcohol isn't good for my health anyway. Which is actually better for me?

High piles of snow

February 5, 2026

It didn't snow today or yesterday, and it was warmer than lately. I expected the roads to be easier to walk on, but actually, there were high piles of snow on the roadsides from the snow removal. They were a bit of a nuisance to walk past.

Absentee voting

February 3, 2026

I went to the ward office for absentee voting today. It was a 20-minute walk from my condo. On my way back, I stopped at a grocery store. I walked three kilometers in total, which was good exercise for me.

That's how it is.

February 1, 2026

A drugstore clerk missed scanning one of the items I bought last Friday. I noticed it when I checked the receipt that evening. I called the store and asked them what I should do. They asked me to pay for the item at a later date. So, I went to the shop and paid for it today. They just said, "Thank you." Well, I guess that's how it is.