Day 3

6 July, 2024

Dear Diary,

In the morning, I hit the gym for my prescheduled personal training with Taka. Today we focused mainly on abs, with some chest and hamstring exercises as well. It’s been almost a month and a half since I started these sessions, and I’ve seen clear results so far, including a change in my body shape and a 5 kg weight loss, which I’m very satisfied with.

In the afternoon, I went to the university to attend my weekly class without checking the schedule beforehand. The door was locked, and I quickly realized that today was a day off. Classic me!

After that, I headed to Starbucks in Umeda, as usual, and studied USMLE microbiology for around three hours before heading back home.

Overall, today was a peaceful day, and it’s nice to have days without any complaints. I appreciate the moments when I can spend time doing what I want to do.

Day 2

5 July, 2024

Dear Diary,

Today was a memorable day for me. My application for Japanese nationality was finally accepted.

I was born and raised in Japan, so I have always felt more familiar with Japan than with Korea, which is my country of origin. However, it is a fact that my grandparents moved to Japan and went through many hardships that I can’t even imagine. They somehow managed to survive and build a life here, giving rise to their offspring, including me. It’s a miracle that they achieved, risking their entire lives.

From now on, I am “Japanese,” but that doesn’t mean I deny my roots. I will move forward with their will and pride. I am confident that I can achieve whatever I set my mind to, and whenever I want to do it. I’ve always been an outgoing individual and always will be, just like my grandparents.

My mind belongs to Japan, but my soul belongs to Korea, with deep respect for my heritage.

Day 1

**4 June, 2024**

Dear Diary,

Today was the same routine as usual. I worked at the hospital, studied for the USMLE Step 1, and went to bed as usual.

There wasn't a standout moment, which makes me feel a bit down. However, I remind myself that what I'm doing now is preparing for my next plan: working abroad. Before you can move on to the next step, you often have to endure some boring periods and focus on yourself. Life isn't always about standout moments; it's a series of peaks and troughs.

Overall, today's entry might seem a bit depressing, but it's my first diary entry in English. Congratulations to me! I'm now on the starting line of my astonishing journey to becoming an English fluent speaker.