(22) I miss my students. Japan is a developed country.

Miyazaki, May 18, 1926
To Seminary Student Giordano Antonio

Always dear Antonio

Your first letter arrived yesterday. Now, at 4am, after a long prayer with Jesus for you and your friends, I sit at the table writing your reply as the sounds of frogs and roosters crowing break the silence. In Japan, houses are full of doors and windows, so when I open the door, I can hear the waves of the Pacific Ocean, about 30 minutes away.

You didn't say anything specific in your last letter about what you wanted from me. You want me to remember you? Of course, I remember you, as the Lord knows. He knows very well that I gave my life for you because I wanted you to be good Salesians. I remember you too much, my brothers and seminarians. I have missed you so much that I am afraid that human feelings have entered into my heart. But Jesus and Mary know very well that I did it then and will do it again only for your souls. Yes. I remember you. There is a nine-hour time difference here, so when you finish your work for the day and go to bed after accumulating merits and graces, I remember each of you during Mass. What more can I say... I'll leave it at that, otherwise...

You want me to write you a letter? I have a clear policy and I intend to follow it to the end. I don't need any kind of encyclical or anything, but if I receive one, I will write you a reply straight away. So you understand...

So what should I write to you all? Information about Japan? That's written in every book. Except for minor details, there is nothing that isn't known. Japan is a country like no other in the world. It prospers materially (it's a developed country, surpassing us in many ways) and at the same time protects its traditions well. It's not so much that they have westernized, but that they have adapted Western culture to Japanese tastes and interests. Do you understand? If you want special information, just say so. Because that's the kind of person I am. Without hints, my brain won't react. Please give me some hints.（…）

My Antonio, keep up the good work. May Jesus and Mary fill you with all good things! I will also pray for your mother. With many prayers, I embrace you with all my heart.

Father V. Cimatti