Blue Lotus Essay

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Exploring the Blue Lotus Okiya Written by Nadia Felwitch I remember back when respect, honor, kindness, and politeness was just common courtesy. Society acknowledged the special qualities of those around them therefore everyone engendered a feeling of respect by others. Treating others with respect and kindness was part of our values in life taught and instilled at childhood. Unfortunately in today’s society, we often forget these values amongst our high paced and demanding lifestyles. I found it quiet fascinating that a small place in a virtual world practices these values on a day to day bases. Let me tell you about my opportunity to visit and learn about the Blue Lotus Okiya. [pic] Before beginning my tour I was given information from Mikido Yoshikawa, Okasaan at the Okiya; to help me understand what Blue Lotus Okiya was all about as I had the slightest clue. The Blue Lotus Okiya is one of SL's oldest geisha training facilities. It was founded by Marian Barbossa, April 9th, 2007. At The Blue Lotus Okiya the students are taught the skills to be a vision of Art, Culture, Grace and Beauty from learning about the history and traditions of a Geisha. I'll pause briefly here to explain what a Geisha is as I myself was not clear on that. Geisha are most misrepresented as being "Asian prostitutes or courtesans". The Webster dictionary describes “Geisha ("person of the arts") are traditional Japanese artist-entertainers". Mikido Youshikawa helped me to fully understand the true meaning of a Geisha with her very informative note cards. "Geisha are entertainers of a high caliber that use traditional Japanese forms of music and dance. They also excel in the art of conversation, and as highly respected companions that do not indulge in courtesan practices." As I finally clicked my mouse and tp'd over I instantly was aware that The Blue Lotus is not only a school
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