Thanks to Amazon Instant Video and its free unlimited streaming, I’ve been catching up on movies that I’ve wanted to watch for years but have neglected to place in the Netflix queue. One of those movies was Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind … and it was surreal and beautiful, in a very Charlie Kaufman kind of way.  I’m so glad I finally watched it.

I sometime wonder what my life would be if my memories were completely erased like Joel (Jim Carrey) and Clementine (Kate Winslet) in the movie, or even better, if I can go back in time and do everything all over again, knowing what I know now. One part of me hopes that I’ll be a better version of myself – perhaps a skinnier, prettier, and more confident self – and make better choices in life. Maybe read more and study harder to get into a better school.

But the reality is that nothing will change. I’m convinced that I’ll make the same (right and wrong) decisions in life, make same excuses, hang out with same (wonderful) friends, and do everything the same way. And that’s not a bad thing. In fact, it’s an incredibly wonderful thing. I love that I’ve completely eliminated the nagging “what ifs” from my life.

My culinary choices are no different. Even if I have all the choices in the world for a place to eat, I always end up choosing the same few places. When I’m at Shinsengumi enjoying my favorite Japanese comfort food (again), there is no wondering of what I might be missing. I’m 100% content with my decision, and I’m convinced that I’m at the right place, at the right time. Just like my life now.

And how could I not, when I’ve got Stir-Fried Pork with Kimchi, Fried Oysters, Fresh Tuna Grated Mountain Yam Bowl, Wasabi Flavored Octopus, and Homemade Tofu in front of me! 🙂

Shinsengumi
111 N. Atlantic Blvd., Monterey Park, CA 91754