“Physics isn’t the most important thing. Love is.”
― Richard P. Feynman
I’ve started my own meetup group, and one of our core missions is to explore experiences that other organizers might never consider, like visiting a cemetery.
The Yokohama Foreign General Cemetery (横浜外国人墓地) is a unique resting place for foreigners who played significant roles in Japan’s early development after it opened up to the world at the end of the Shogunate. It is also the final home for those who, for various reasons, never returned to their native lands. Some chose to stay, while others lost their lives here. It’s a place that confronts us with the reality of death.
Typically, mainstream meetups revolve around activities like language exchanges in coffee shops, board games, or sightseeing—like the event I organized last month. However, this time, we’re doing something different. While the cemetery is a well-known spot in the city, it isn’t a traditional sightseeing location or a place for fun. It is, after all, a cemetery.
Visiting a cemetery offers a unique opportunity to slow down and reflect on life, death, and the passage of time. This can foster a deeper appreciation for life and help us reevaluate our priorities and values.
A story of John Sicoshi (spelling unknown)
Among the gravestones in the cemetery, I discovered something fascinating. While most of the inscriptions are in English or other European languages, I found one written in Japanese.
Here’s the English translation:
John Sicoshi rests here.
Born in Hungary, a mysterious fate brought him to Japan.
He was a remarkable man, known for his talents, tireless efforts, and admirable mindset.
He was a giver, not a taker.
Your distant blue eyes, gentle voice, and strong arms.
After I leave this world, who will remember how wonderful you were?
Itoe
My thoughts:
The gravestone was unique. It didn’t recount his achievements but spoke of his character. And who was Itoe? His wife? His lover? I don’t know, but I do know she lived until 2002.
And who was John Sicoshi? According to the inscriptions, how did he spend his life, and how did he treat others, including Itoe? The words suggest he was a man of golden character.
Conclusion:
John Sicoshi’s gravestone was one of the reasons I decided to plan this event. I attempted to organize it once before, but due to a scheduling error, the cemetery was closed when we visited a few months ago.
Since the cemetery won’t be open to the public until September, I’m planning to host the event next month.
I’m not sure how many people will sign up, but I hope to meet new people who might share a similar mindset.