Hello, my name is Brandon Artis and I am a Textfugu newb. I am here to state my reasons for joining the community as a sort of closure. By publicizing my goals and aspirations, I feel as though I am finalizing my commitment. Turning my thoughts and print into a tangible accusation that can and will be used against me. So it appears I am now bound by contract ^_^

I am learning Japanese because of my long, unwavering affection for Japan. Last year, I was bestowed the wondrous opportunity to travel and live in Japan for a month. In that time I formed connections that will not falter and when I left, a piece of me remained. I have since fallen out of practice with the language and still have no written skills. I am learning Japanese with the hopes of returning and conversing with the friends and family I departed with. Lastly, I am learning the language with the belief that one day I will live and teach in Japan with the JET program for an extended period, if not the rest of, my life. Also, I wouldn’t mind being able to geek out and read Japanese manga!

So I will try my best to rekindle the flame. And I wish everyone else trying the best as well. ガんばって