Waseda WeeklyWaseda Weekly

Until recently, in early November, I was standing at the podium wearing short sleeves, but it has suddenly become very cold and I have stopped talking. And this season has come again this year. As we approach the end of the year, the world becomes abuzz with topics such as year-end parties, Christmas, and winter vacation. This is the time when the so-called Christmas sales season is also in full swing.

Of course, enjoying such end-of-year events is "freedom'' and is a very good thing, but I would like to ask students to take this opportunity to think about the meaning of "freedom'' and try to behave in moderation. I sincerely hope that you will.

Just imagine that. What would happen if each person in the world of "freedom'' extended their arms of "freedom'' as far as they wanted in order to enjoy that "freedom''? Sooner or later, the hand will hit into the hands of others who are also "free.'' Someone has to withdraw their hand. To prevent this from happening, you need to observe your surroundings and extend your arms to the extent that you do not disturb others. In other words, although the name "freedom'' is attached to both hands, it is not a matter of doing whatever one wants unchecked, but is accompanied by moderation and responsibility. Even if we treat "freedom'' as a golden rule, we cannot assume that anything is allowed. Please keep this in mind as you enjoy the atmosphere and events at the end of the year. Any kind of "freedom" has its limits.

Even on pastures where cows and horses seem to be roaming freely and freely, there is a fence in the end.

(YY)

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