It’s been over 30 years since I married my sushi-chef husband. Our eldest, Hajime, is married to Yuki, and our second son, Keigo, to Marika. As a wife, I always supported my husband from behind the scenes. But seeing my sons put their wives before their own family, I realized—women today are so strong! After talking with Marika, I started to think… maybe in this next chapter of life, it’s okay for me to step into the spotlight.
I used to give chores to my sons’ wives because that’s how I was treated myself. I didn’t have the space to feel “sorry” or “compassionate.” But in the end, I was repeating the same pain from the older generation onto the younger one. Watching Hajime and Keigo with their wives made me rethink. It became a turning point to reflect on my own life and decide to change. It was my daughters-in-law who broadened my perspective. When I opened the small restaurant, Hajime gave me a lot of support, and Yuki brought the grandkids over too. I know not everything can be forgiven, but I’m grateful they understand me in their own way. From now on, I want to focus on myself and truly shine.