It is quite difficult to precisely translate concepts of Japanese emotions and moral. Giri (義理), too does not have an equivalent concept in English. The concept of giri which was formed in feudal society, is the most valued standard in human relationships: Master-subordinate, parent-child, husband-wife, brothers and sisters, friends, and sometimes even enemies and business conection-Japanese Culture, John K. Gillespie-
Giri spirit is easily perceived when it comes to social interactions in Japan. Inevitable condition that we must get by everytime we come in contact with Japanese. The culture that they hold on into colorizes every act, every judgement, and every decision they take.
In my lab, one unique tradition they hold every year is 'cutting grass' party. This party is throwed in sensei's house, performed by cleaning up the lawn, rearranging the garden, and then terminated by doing BBQ and kanpai.Every member looked over-aroused by this idea. Recalling the spirit of giri, where all members feel immense gratitude toward sensei, this condition is then understandable.
They did every single work with liveliness, wanted to perform the best they can. Once I took a pause from doing the cutting, they soon reminded me smilingly that there are still much works to do. 頑張れ！！ナナさん、まだ あるよ。。。
But they did great, finished all that had been started, they enjoyed sake, the discussion, the humour. Japanese who is usually temperamentally disinclined to talk, uses these drinking sake occasion to eliminate friction that might have come out during work hours.
At last, we went back home, friction eliminated, obligations completed, full stomach, tired, but ready to get back to work the next day.
