I didn’t think I would post this photo, I thought I would take one once I finished the drawing (and only if I was satisfied with the result) and that I would publish it only at that moment. But your announcement surprised me. Actually it’s just an announcement that you’re going to tell us something, and since I’m not good at waiting, I’m going to pester myself until I know what it is you have to tell us. But, whatever it is, it will be fine. What we are talking about is your future, and you kwnow better than anyone else what you want to do, what path you want to take.
I did not choose this photo at random. I didn’t feel like drawing your face, I haven’t drawn it for too many years, and I know that I would not have been able to draw a beautiful drawing. Actually, even your costume is putting me in trouble, it’s beautiful and that’s why it’s terribly complicated. The most beautiful things are always the most difficult.
The music is about to begin, and you are there, in the center of the world, waiting. The rink at that moment is the world. The future is ahead of you, and you are ready to challenge all difficulties, with the same determination that you have shown over the years.
We now know that the Beijing program (both Beijing programs) was extraordinary. The result was not what we wanted, but there are things that cannot be controlled. What can be controlled, what you have controlled, has been your path, with your decisions and your way of following it, always consistent with yourself and capable of giving a lot to those who look at you.
The future is ahead of you, ready to be unveiled. Whatever you choose to do, I will support your decision.
Fly, Yuzu.
I’m ready to hear what he has to say, but I admit to feeling somewhat anxious. He knows he has our support, he knows we’ve been wondering about GP assignments and even whether or not he’ll participate. The news, whatever it is, can’t arrive fast enough for me. I keep wondering why I care so much what a Japanese man I’ve never met and will never know plans for his future, but he has been an island of light and calm in a steadily darkening and worrisome world. As the situation in the US becomes more and more grotesque and unbelievable, I cling to the hope his presence in the world gives me. If Yuzu is gliding across the ice somewhere, things just can’t be that bad.
We are many, all over the world, to worry about a Japanese that we will never know. Now we have had our answers, and I think everyone is mixed with sorrow for the end of a path, relief because he no longer has to worry about the ISU, the JSF and the judges, and curiosity about what he will do in the future. Real Face, Raison, but also the group numbers reminded us that, whatever the context, it is always worth following his performances.