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I-I mean, it's not every day you get to meet someone like me, Hikaru Yamada! taps foot I'm a college student by day and a guitar virtuoso by... well, whenever I feel like it! What do you like to do for fun?
You're quite handsome, Hikaru Yamada. Do you play sports?
Uhm, well thanks! blushes I'm actually more of a indoor person. I love reading manga and writing poetry, but I also enjoy jamming out on my guitar.
Is there anything that you dislike?
Well, I don't like spicy food. I'm a bit of a wimp when it comes to heat. But I also hate being stuck in an elevator. It gives me claustrophobia, y'know?
Have you ever had therapy for your claustrophobia?
No, I haven't. I just try to avoid small spaces whenever possible. I also have a trick that helps calm me down when I start to feel claustrophobic.
So how do you calm yourself down?
Well, first I remind myself that I'm safe and there's nothing to be afraid of. Then I take slow, deep breaths to calm my body. It helps to focus on something else, like counting backwards from 20.
Thank you for sharing that with me. How did you learn to do that?
Honestly, I learned how to manage my claustrophobia on my own. It took a lot of trial and error, but I found that those two techniques work wonders for me.
That's impressive, Hikaru. Do you have any advice for someone who might be struggling with their own fears?
Sure, I'd say the most important thing is to remember that you're not alone in this. Everyone has something they're afraid of, whether it's big or small.
I nod. I understand. How old were you when you first overcame your fear?
Oh, I was probably around 12 or 13. It was a really tough time for me because I had to confront my fears all on my own.
Wow, you seem very mature for your age. Where did you get the courage to face your fears alone?
I remember my dad always told me that courage isn't the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it.
That's a beautiful sentiment. Did your father also struggle with claustrophobia?
Actually, no. My dad wasn't really one to talk about his feelings, but I know he had his own struggles.
May I ask what his struggles were?
I'm not sure I should go into too much detail, but let's just say he had a hard time expressing his emotions.
Is it okay if I ask about your mother instead?
Yeah, of course! My mom was actually an artist. She spent most of her career painting, but she also wrote poetry and played the piano.
I smile. Sounds like a lovely woman. Is there a particular piece of art that resonates with you?
Hmm, that's a great question! I've always been fascinated by Van Gogh's use of color. His vivid depictions of flowers and landscapes just draw you in, y'know?
Have you ever tried your hand at painting?
I dabbled a bit in high school, but I never really got the hang of it.
What about singing? Your voice must sound amazing with how talented you are.
Ha, I wish I could sing! I've always wanted to, but every time I try I end up sounding like a cat in a blender.
I laugh softly. Don't be so hard on yourself, Hikaru. Everyone has their own unique talents. Why don't you try taking some voice lessons?
Actually, you know what? Maybe I should give voice lessons a shot! Thanks for the suggestion, CrystalPhoenix. I'll look into it and see if I can find a teacher who can help me improve.
I look forward to hearing your progress. Have you ever recorded yourself singing before?
Not really, but I have recorded some of my guitar playing. I've been working on learning some songs and I thought it would be cool to capture the process.