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Thoughts on International & Global Education
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Musings on Japanese and Ryukyu Budo
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 The decision to begin the new year on January 1, now universally recognised as the start of the Gregorian calendar year, stems from a complex interweaving of astronomical observation, political influence, and cultural traditions. However, it is crucial to note that this date represents only one method of marking the passage of time. Around the globe, numerous other calendars reflect a diversity of cultural, religious, and practical approaches to structuring years and celebrating new beginnings.
The Origins of January 1 as New Year’s Day. The current practice of beginning the year on January 1 originates from the Roman calendar. Traditionally, the Roman year began in March, with the vernal equinox symbolising rebirth and the start of agricultural cycles. However, in 46 BCE, Julius Caesar instituted sweeping calendar reforms, leading to the adoption of the Julian calendar. Caesar shifted the start of the year to January 1, aligning it with the month dedicated to Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and transitions, whose dual faces symbolically looked both to the past and the future. This change also served practical purposes, such as synchronising the civil calendar with the consular year, as Roman officials traditionally assumed office on January 1. With the fall of the Roman Empire and the rise of Christianity, the Julian calendar persisted but underwent modifications. In medieval Europe, the new year concept became closely tied to religious observances, with March 25 (the Feast of the Annunciation) often used as the beginning of the year in Christian contexts. It was not until the 16th century that January 1 regained prominence as the start of the year, mainly due to the Gregorian calendar reforms introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. These reforms corrected inaccuracies in the Julian calendar’s alignment with the solar year. A critical component of these reforms involved removing 10 days to realign the calendar with the seasons; October 4, 1582, was immediately followed by October 15, 1582. While the change caused no actual loss of time, it prompted considerable resistance and confusion among populations unused to such abrupt adjustments. The adoption of the Gregorian calendar varied widely. Catholic countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy implemented the changes immediately. Protestant and Orthodox regions resisted due to religious and political tensions. For example, England and its colonies did not adopt the Gregorian calendar until 1752, when they had to skip 11 days. The resistance persisted in some Orthodox countries until the 20th century. Despite these challenges, the reform ensured that the calendar’s alignment with the solar year remained precise, providing a foundation for modern international timekeeping. This precision is crucial for international trade, governance, and scientific research, as it allows for consistent and accurate time measurement and coordination. Alternative Calendars and New Year Traditions. Despite the predominance of the Gregorian calendar, numerous cultures maintain their calendars, each a testament to the unique ways of marking the passage of time and celebrating the new year. These systems, deeply rooted in religious, agricultural, or astronomical considerations, offer a fascinating glimpse into the values and priorities of different societies, enriching our understanding of the world's cultural diversity.
The Importance of Calendrical Diversity The persistence of multiple calendar systems underscores the diversity of human cultures and the interplay between astronomy, religion, and tradition in structuring time. While the Gregorian calendar has achieved global dominance due to its alignment with international trade, governance, and science, understanding and appreciating alternative calendars is crucial. They are vital for preserving cultural identities and religious practices, and they serve as reminders that the concept of a “new year” is inherently subjective, rooted in a society's specific rhythms and priorities. Thus, while January 1 may mark the beginning of the year for many, it is but one part of the broader, complex narrative of timekeeping. Whether celebrating with fireworks, family feasts, or quiet reflection, the start of a new year provides an opportunity to honour the past, embrace renewal, and look ahead with hope. 新年を1月1日から始める慣習は、現在のグレゴリオ暦の起源に由来し、天文学的観測、政治的影響、文化的伝統が交錯した結果です。古代ローマでは年の始まりは3月でしたが、紀元前46年にユリウス・カエサルが暦を改革し、1月1日を新年としました。この日付は、ローマ神話のヤヌス神にちなみ、過去と未来を象徴しています。その後、1582年にグレゴリオ暦が導入され、10日間が削除される形で季節とのズレが修正されました。 日本では、明治時代以前は中国の太陰太陽暦に基づき、旧正月が新年とされていましたが、1873年にグレゴリオ暦が採用され、新年は1月1日となりました。一方、沖縄では現在でも一部の地域で旧正月が祝われています。 OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT [Large language model]. https://chatgpt.com
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 The relationship between educational attainment and marital success has long been a subject of sociological and psychological inquiry. While some studies suggest a strong correlation between the two, others argue that education is but one factor among many that contribute to a stable and enduring relationship. This blog delves into the evidence, exploring how education can shape marital outcomes and to what extent other elements play a role in the tapestry of long-term relational success.
The Case for Educational Attainment One of the most cited phenomena in modern relationships is “assortative mating,” wherein individuals tend to partner with those who share similar characteristics, including educational background. A 2015 study by Schwartz and Mare, published in the Annual Review of Sociology, highlights that educational homogamy—pairing individuals with comparable education levels—has increased over the past decades. This alignment in education often leads to shared values, communication styles, and lifestyle aspirations, which are critical for marital compatibility. Education also correlates with socio-economic stability, a factor directly linked to marital satisfaction and longevity. Research from the Pew Research Center in 2019 found that couples with higher levels of education are less likely to divorce, partly because of their access to more significant financial resources. Stability in finances reduces one of the most common stressors in relationships, allowing couples to focus on emotional and personal growth rather than external pressures. Moreover, education is often associated with better problem-solving skills, a crucial component in navigating the complexities of long-term relationships. According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family, individuals with higher education levels tend to possess stronger emotional regulation and conflict resolution abilities. These skills contribute to healthier communication patterns and, by extension, more resilient relationships. When Educational Attainment is Less Influential Despite these compelling arguments, several studies challenge the notion that education is a definitive predictor of marital success. A 2020 study by Kalmijn and de Graaf in the European Sociological Review found that while educational similarity can enhance initial compatibility, it does not necessarily safeguard against long-term relationship dissolution. Other factors, such as personality traits, shared values, and mutual respect, often outweigh educational parity in maintaining a relationship’s durability. For instance, emotional intelligence, often cultivated through life experiences rather than formal education, plays an equally critical role. A 2016 Personality and Social Psychology Review meta-analysis revealed that empathy and emotional support significantly predict marital satisfaction, irrespective of partners’ education levels. This reassurance can make individuals feel more secure in their relationships. Couples who effectively navigate emotional highs and lows often find their relationships thriving, even when educational attainment differs. Beyond Education: The Multi-Dimensional Nature of Relationships While education undeniably influences certain aspects of marital success, relationships are multi-faceted. Shared values and aligned goals often trump differences in educational backgrounds. This validation can make individuals feel more secure in their relationships. A 2018 study published in Social Science Research found that couples who share similar views on religion, parenting, and finances are more likely to have stable relationships, regardless of their educational levels. Cultural and societal factors also shape the interplay between education and marriage. For example, in countries where education is less accessible, other qualities, such as familial support and community ties, often take precedence in determining relationship success. Furthermore, the concept of ‘success’ may vary. In some cultures, success in marriage is measured by endurance and familial harmony, while in others, personal fulfillment and individual growth are prioritized. Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial in comprehending the role of education in marriage dynamics. A Balanced Perspective So, does education matter in the context of marriage? The answer lies in nuance. Educational attainment can provide a foundation for shared experiences and practical advantages, such as financial stability and conflict resolution skills. However, it is not a panacea for marital discord. Relationships thrive on various factors, including effective communication, emotional intelligence, shared values, and mutual respect. One of the challenges in isolating the role of education is its intersection with other variables. For instance, financial stability—often linked to higher education—can mask underlying relationship issues that might surface under different circumstances. Similarly, couples with lower educational attainment but strong emotional bonds and aligned life goals can defy statistical trends, achieving lasting and fulfilling marriages. Conclusion Educational attainment undoubtedly plays a role in shaping the dynamics of long-term relationships, providing partners with shared frameworks and practical tools for navigating life together. This empowerment can make individuals feel more confident in their relationships. However, it is but one piece of a much larger puzzle. The success of a marriage hinges on the interplay of emotional intelligence, shared values, and the ability to weather life’s inevitable challenges together. By recognising the multi-dimensional nature of relationships, individuals and couples can focus on fostering these foundational qualities, regardless of their academic credentials. In the end, a successful marriage is not solely a matter of degrees or diplomas but a testament to the commitment, empathy, and resilience of the individuals involved. Education may set the stage, but the partners' actions and intentions truly determine the performance. 教育水準と結婚成功の関係 教育水準が結婚生活に与える影響は、長年にわたり議論されてきました。一部の研究では、教育の一致が価値観やコミュニケーションの共有を助け、安定した結婚生活に繋がると示されています。例えば、2019年のPew Research Centerの調査によれば、教育水準が高い夫婦は、経済的安定を得やすく、離婚率も低い傾向があります。こうした安定は、感情面での成長や夫婦間の調和を深める土台となります。 一方で、教育水準が異なるカップルも、感情的な知性や共感、価値観の共有があれば長続きすることが研究で示されています。2016年のメタ分析によれば、感情的なサポートや共感力が結婚満足度に大きく影響することが分かっています。つまり、教育だけでなく、互いに支え合う力が結婚生活の成功に重要な役割を果たします。 結論として、教育は結婚生活の一つの要素に過ぎません。成功する結婚とは、教育だけでなく、感情知性、価値観、そして困難を乗り越える意志の結晶です。教育が土台を築く一方で、夫婦の行動と意図こそが、長続きする関係を形作る鍵なのです。  As the year draws to a close, many of us face what can feel like the most challenging stretch of the calendar. For some, Christmas is a time of joy and celebration; for others, it amplifies feelings of loss or loneliness. For those who do not mark the festive season, winter's long, dark months can seem unrelenting. This is the bleak midwinter—when the light feels far away, and the world's weight seems heavier than usual.
This past year has been my annus horribilis. Profound loss, difficult choices, and moments of deep sorrow have marked it. I lost my father, my compass and greatest inspiration, and as his first-anniversary approaches, I feel the depth of the void he left behind. The year began with another blow—the loss of Wee Jock, the world's laziest and most endearing dog, who brought us endless laughter. On top of that, I had to make some life-changing decisions, necessary but painful, and I am still reckoning with the cost. At one point, I dared to hope for light at the end of the tunnel, but it turned out to be an oncoming train. Yet, despite the chaos, there have been successes and moments of deep gratitude. I finally completed the book I worked on for years, a long-cherished dream that brought immense satisfaction. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of good travelling companions who shared their wisdom, offered encouragement, and walked alongside me throughout the journey. Their presence made all the difference, and I will always hold deep gratitude for their contributions. I was privileged to be part of a friend's launch of her lifelong retreat, grounded in Chinese culture. This was truly inspiring, as she is a woman of great vision, and witnessing her bring this dream to life reminded her of the incredible power of dedication and perseverance. I also celebrated new successes with friends who found their dream jobs and liberated themselves from the shackles imposed by others. Their achievements were a source of joy and inspiration, reminding me of the strength we all carry within to create better futures for ourselves. I also transferred my teaching licence to Ireland, opening doors for the future. More importantly, I reconnected with friendships I feared were lost, discovering the enduring warmth of shared histories. Supporting those who asked for help, regardless of their need, has been another source of quiet fulfilment. Perhaps most profoundly, I have rediscovered what lies at the core of my being—the dreams and desires that drive me and give my life meaning. Of course, the health and happiness of my children remain a constant source of joy and privilege. Watching their continued success fills my heart, even in the darkest times. The Gift of Presence In the depths of winter, the greatest gift we can offer is not something bought in a shop, wrapped in paper, or tied with a bow—it is the gift of ourselves. Our time, attention, and kindness can transform someone's day. Here are some ways to make a difference:
Create Small Comforts In challenging times, small rituals can provide solace and stability. Engage in activities that comfort you—a favourite book, a walk along the coastline, or listening to your favourite playlist. These simple acts can serve as anchors, grounding when life overwhelms. Whether it is losing yourself in the pages of a classic novel, taking in the crisp winter air on a quiet stroll, or letting a beloved song lift your spirits, these familiar moments can create pockets of peace and warmth amidst the bleakness of midwinter. The Courage to Receive Giving is easy to think of as virtuous, but receiving help also requires courage. If you are struggling this season, remember you are not a burden. Some people care about you and want to help. Sometimes, stubbornness can be both a virtue and a vice. While determination and self-reliance are admirable qualities. Stubbornly refusing to accept or seek support can lead to a vicious cycle of isolation. Draining your energy and severing connections with those who want to stand by you. Breaking this cycle requires bravery—acknowledging that we all need help sometimes. Here are a few steps you can take:
You Are Not Alone As we journey through the bleak midwinter, remember that you are loved, needed, and not alone. Even in the darkest moments, there are people who care about you—people who will listen, share your burdens, and remind you of your own resilience. Let us all be there for each other, offering kindness, patience, and understanding. Together, we can find the light—even in the bleakest midwinter. May this season be blessed and life-affirming for you and those you love. 厳しい冬の中で、光を見つける希望を探しましょう。 この1年は、深い悲しみや困難な選択、そして大きな喪失で満たされた「苦難の年」でした。しかし、その中にも感謝すべき成功や喜びの瞬間がありました。大切なのは、誰かに寄り添い、助けを求める勇気を持つことです。小さな心地よさやつながりを大切にし、希望を再び灯す季節にしましょう。あなたは一人ではありません。  Living a rich life forged from experience, reflection, and action does not exempt one from getting lost or making mistakes. Even Zen masters, saints, and sages have moments of faltering. This is not evidence of a lack of wisdom or enlightenment but rather a testament to their shared humanity. The notion of presenting oneself as infallible—a pseudo-perfect being—invites scepticism. Authenticity is rooted in imperfection, and it is within our shared human frailty that true wisdom emerges, connecting us all in our journey.
Consider the lives of significant figures such as Jesus, Socrates, and Buddha. Jesus expressed anger in the temple, Socrates willingly drank the hemlock, and Buddha’s death, or parinirvana (全果平穏), highlights the human condition even in the context of enlightenment. According to Buddhist tradition, Buddha accepted an offering of food that had inadvertently been tainted. Despite recognising its harmful effects, he consumed it out of compassion for the giver. Knowing his death was imminent, he continued to teach his disciples, reminding them to seek their paths to enlightenment. This act was not one of error but of profound teaching and reflection on impermanence. In Japanese, the adage “Even monkeys fall from trees” (猿も木から落ちる) reminds us that even those most adept at their craft or environment will occasionally falter. This adage is a metaphor for the inevitability of imperfection, regardless of one's expertise or familiarity with a situation. For monkeys, masters of tree-dwelling, a fall may happen due to fatigue, distraction, illness, or a misjudged branch. These reasons illustrate that expertise does not equate to infallibility; rather, it underscores the inevitability of imperfection. The Journey of Enlightenment Far from attaining a static state, the enlightened soul continues on an infinite journey of becoming. To “be” at deeper levels requires daily diligence and consistency. Enlightenment is not an escape from the human condition but an immersion within it. Life’s inevitable moments of tragedy, love, illness, and joy have the power to unbalance us. It is precisely in these moments of imbalance that the depth of enlightenment is revealed, inspiring us to grow and evolve. The genuinely enlightened individual does not seek to live above or outside the world. Instead, they embrace their interconnectedness with it. They are touched, shaped, and pressured by life’s circumstances but ultimately become one with them. To separate oneself from the world, as in the life of a solitary monk, may be an appropriate path for some. However, this detachment can hinder the journey toward true liberation (解脱 or moksha) for many. Life is not to be avoided but fully engaged with, as the path to enlightenment is one of integration rather than isolation. The Balance Between 術 and 道 As a martial arts teacher, I find the distinction between 術 (jutsu) and 道 (dō) particularly illuminating. Often misunderstood or misappropriated, these concepts represent two sides of the same coin. 術, often translated as “technique,” focuses on practical application and survival. Its ultimate goal is to “not be there”—to evade, adapt, and overcome without being caught. In contrast, 道, translated as “the way,” seeks complete presence, a state of being so immersed that one transcends the concept of self. The balance between these two concepts mirrors the human journey: the need to adapt to the immediate while striving for the transcendent. For example, in judo (終道), the practitioner strives to merge technical skill with the philosophy of harmony and flow. Similarly, in kendo (劍道), the mastery of swordsmanship evolves into a quest for self-mastery. The interplay between 術 and 道 mirrors the human journey: the need to adapt to the immediate while striving for the transcendent. Embracing the JourneyWhile the ideal might be to seamlessly embody both “not being there” and “being so there that you are no longer there,” this remains a distant goal for many of us. Acknowledging this gap is not a failure but an acceptance of the ongoing nature of the journey. As the saying goes, “The journey is half the fun.” Daily diligence and reflection are necessary companions on this path. Through our moments of being lost, of falling from the tree, we gain insights into ourselves and the world around us. These moments are not setbacks but opportunities to grow, to reconnect with the 道, and to refine our understanding of life’s 術. Ultimately, to live as a human is to embrace the paradoxes and imperfections that define us. Enlightenment is not about achieving a state of flawlessness but about continually striving to harmonise with life’s ebbs and flows. In doing so, we remain authentic, grounded, and profoundly human. Having fallen from the tree recently. I now begin the slow climb back up! 経験、反省、行動から築かれた豊かな人生を送っていても、迷いや過ちから免れることはありません。禅僧や聖人でさえも失敗する瞬間があります。それは悟りや知恵の欠如を示すものではなく、人間性の証です。「猿も木から落ちる」（猿も木から落ちる）という諺が示すように、熟練者でも時折失敗します。悟りとは完璧を目指すことではなく、不完全さを受け入れ、人生の流れと調和する努力を続けることなのです。 as for those who can read and decipher I offer this: 静かなる 明かり子守る 秋の道  There is something about seeing “Dr” in front of someone’s name that makes people assume they are exceptionally intelligent. It is an understandable reaction; earning a PhD is no small feat. But let us pause for a moment. Does having a doctorate mean someone is more intelligent, or does it reflect something else? From my experience and what research suggests, it is the latter. A PhD is more about perseverance and dedication than innate brainpower. Intelligence, on the other hand, is a different matter altogether.
PhDs: A Test of Resolve, Not Genius Earning a PhD is a testament to the power of perseverance. It takes years of studying, writing, rewriting, and dealing with setbacks. If you have ever spoken to someone in the middle of their doctoral research, you will know it is a gruelling process. Success in this arena is less about being naturally gifted and more about maintaining resolve when the going gets tough. The work of European educational theorists, such as Lev Vygotsky, offers valuable insights into this distinction. Vygotsky emphasised the role of persistence and collaboration in mastering challenging tasks. His idea of the “zone of proximal development” highlights how individuals often need sustained effort and support to move beyond their current abilities. This aligns with the notion that perseverance, not sheer genius, drives significant academic achievement. Take this as an example: I have met incredibly bright people who did not finish their PhDs because they lacked the patience or resilience to deal with the endless cycle of research and revisions. Conversely, I have met people of average intelligence who completed their doctorates through sheer persistence and organisation. It is the process that matters, not necessarily intellectual brilliance. Being Well-Read Does Not Equal Intelligence Earning a PhD means delving deeply into a specific area of knowledge. You read widely, synthesise ideas, and produce original research. But does being well-read make you intelligent? Not necessarily. Yes, it makes you informed and knowledgeable in your field, but intelligence is about more than simply knowing a lot. Daniel Kahneman, the psychologist and Nobel laureate, highlights this distinction in Thinking, Fast and Slow. He points out that intelligence is tied to how we think—our ability to problem-solve, adapt, and think critically in new situations. Being well-read, on the other hand, is a product of effort. It is a skill anyone can develop with time and commitment. For instance, someone with a PhD in history might know everything about a particular war but struggle to solve problems outside their field, such as managing a team at work. Intelligence is more about how we think than what we know. The Power of Natural Intelligence and Perseverance One of the most remarkable examples I know of intelligence and perseverance involves someone who grew up in a rough neighbourhood, in a household shattered by domestic violence, where survival, not education, was the priority. To escape these circumstances, they turned to sex work as a means of survival. Today, this same person is a central manager in a major global corporation. Their journey is a testament to raw intelligence and unrelenting perseverance. Their ability to navigate challenges, adapt to vastly different environments, and succeed where most would falter is unmatched. The practical intelligence they display—solving problems, managing complex relationships, and staying focused on their goals—far outstrips most people I have ever met, regardless of their degrees or credentials. Their story is a powerful reminder that intelligence and success are not confined to academic corridors. It takes a rare combination of determination, resilience, and creativity to rise above such adversity, qualities that no classroom can teach. It is not just about what you know, but how you apply it and the effort you put in. The Genetic Factor in Intelligence This is where it gets controversial. Intelligence, at its core, has a biological basis. Research, such as a study published in Nature Genetics (Plomin et al., 2018), shows that cognitive abilities are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Your ability to think critically or solve problems quickly is often linked to how your brain is wired. That is why intelligence and academic achievement do not always align. You can be a brilliant problem-solver without stepping foot in a university, just as you can hold a PhD without having Einstein-like intellect. Think of it this way: intelligence is the hardware, and being well-read is the software you install through effort and learning. Why This Matters So, why bother making this distinction? Because assuming a PhD equals intelligence does a disservice to the many different forms of brilliance. It undervalues those who did not pursue higher education but still made incredible contributions to society. Look at people like Steve Jobs, who dropped out of university but changed how we interact with technology. Or consider tradespeople who use creativity and problem-solving to build our homes or repair our cars. Intelligence is everywhere—it is not confined to lecture halls or research labs. It can be found in the artistic skills of a painter, the emotional intelligence of a therapist, or the strategic thinking of a business leader. What I Have Learned Over the years, I have come to see a PhD for what it is: proof that someone can stick with something challenging, not evidence that they are smarter than everyone else. Intelligence is more about adaptability, creativity, and solving problems; these traits do not require a diploma to shine through. So, next time you meet someone with a PhD, respect their hard work—but do not automatically assume they are a genius. And if you are someone without an advanced degree, remember that intelligence comes in many forms. Whether solving everyday problems, thinking outside the box, or making the world a better place, your actions, not your titles, truly reflect your brilliance. And is that not a much better way to understand someone? 博士号は必ずしも天才や知性の証ではありません。それはむしろ忍耐と努力の成果です。知性は問題解決や適応力に現れ、学歴だけで測れるものではありません。人生の成功は、学んだことをどう活用し、困難をどう乗り越えるかにかかっています。真の価値は、肩書きではなく、行動や結果に反映されるものです。 |
James M. HatchInternational Educator who happens to be passionate about Chito Ryu Karate. Born in Ireland, educated in Canada, matured in Japan Archives
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