Today is Tanabata, a traditional Japanese festival that has its origin both in romance and the stars. Many people may already know the details of the (literally) star-crossed romance of Orihime and Hikoboshi, but the unique celebration of Tanabata can give you a rare chance for a look into the hearts and minds of the often quiet and reserved people of Japan. The main custom of Tanabata is writing wishes on a slip of paper called a Tanzaku and tying it to bamboo. The wishes, on paper of various colors, look lovely and festive as they hang in public places. It is fun to write your own wish and hang it to join the others, and since it is all anonymous, you can participate even if you are shy! For me, the most interesting part is seeing what other people wish for. It is a rare moment of vulnerability and openness, seeing wishes to find love, the success loved ones, health and happiness. (I once saw someone make wishes for stock trading, so it isn't all sentimental!) It can be a revealing look at the wishes and desires of people who would otherwise almost never voice these sentiments openly. All in all, it is heartwarming and makes me feel closer to my fellow man, which in its own way is its own vision of love to set alongside Orihime and Hikoboshi's tale. As a bonus, the Japanese of tanzaku wishes is usually short simple, making it good for study. If you are in Japan for Tanabata, you are sure to see Tanzaku somewhere. Why not try writing a wish of your own?