Akemashite Omedeto Reiwa 7

A most delightful Japanese New Year tradition is eating soba noodles on New Year's Eve.

As mundane an event as this may seem to those who have yet to be enlightened about the magic instantiated in ōmisoka soba noodles consumed on New Year's Eve.

年越し蕎麦—toshikoshi soba

A traditional Japanese dish eaten on New Year's Eve. Buckwheat noodles symbolize the release of past hardships and the welcoming of a fresh start in the new year.

Symbolism:

1. Longevity and Prosperity: The long noodles symbolize long life.
2. Breaking with the Past: Soba is easy to cut compared to other noodles, symbolizing the cutting off of the difficulties or misfortunes of the past year.
3. Buckwheat's Resilience: Soba plants can thrive in harsh conditions, symbolizing strength and resilience.

Preparation:

While the specific style of soba may vary by region or family, popular accompaniments include:

• Hot soba in broth: Served in a light soy sauce-based soup.
• Cold soba with dipping sauce: A simpler, refreshing option.
• Toppings: Common toppings include tempura, seaweed, green onions, or kamaboko (fish cake).

Eating 年越し蕎麦 is a comforting ritual to reflect on the past year and prepare for a prosperous new beginning.

Speaking of new beginnings╰(*´︶`*)╯♡

Reiwa 6 revealed a pivotal connection in the long and often arduous journey following the sun and living among the Japanese, imbibing the meaning of life as a free-range avatar.

One fundamental to internalize in the Year of Emperor Naruhito—Reiwa Seven—is that the nooks and crannies are replete with burning philosophical questions, which also yield the answers human beings innately seek.

It was here last year that the full explanation of the nature of reality was revealed—the meaning of life now filled in—seek and ye shall find—if you will.

Inside the farthest reaches of the secret of human existence—the veneer stripped away—what it means to be infinite—in a parsimonious philosophical way—for the world surrounding ye—is created solely by the mind for those who so choose to see.

This material world is an ephemeral dream—one believes they are awake, yet, in fact, still slumbering—until the time to rejoice with the tutelary deities—passing through these phantasmagorical scenes throughout this transitory world on the sublime journey to ΩNE.