People, even children, aren't really afraid of change. They're afraid of not being prepared for change.

I know that I was conscious of all the aspects of the war, having had cousins who were in the army, who would send me notes and memorabilia. I began to collect things that they would send me.

At school there were some programs in music. I did take piano lessons, and we had a piano at home. I got very interested in that.

Going back to the elementary school days, I was always drawing. I entered a Victory poster competition and won the top award that recognized my artistic instincts.

You can find inspiration in everything. If you can't, then you're not looking properly.

The Japanese are hard to understand, but once you do the world is your oyster.

There's always an important person who helps support your interests and encourages you.