Recently, I’ve been asked questions like, “Aren’t you interested in politics?” or even received proposals to “consider running for office.” I find myself surprised each time, but also deeply grateful that my voice seems to resonate with many people.

That said, I want to be clear: I currently have no intention of becoming a politician. In this article, I’d like to share why I feel this way and explain how I wish to contribute to society in my own way.

My Interest in Politics and History
First of all, I am not indifferent to politics. On the contrary, I have a deep interest in politics and history—an interest born out of my own life experiences.

As someone who acquired a severe disability mid-life, I’ve encountered many challenges in my daily life. Through these experiences, I’ve come to realize how much welfare systems and disability-related policies can impact one’s quality of life. Understanding the mechanisms behind these policies has fueled my interest in politics.

Similarly, history holds a special place in my heart. For me, history is not just a record of past events but a guide to understanding the present and shaping the future. My passion for studying Japan’s past, particularly the Jomon period, has helped me grasp how society and culture evolve over time. Politics and history are interconnected tools that enable me to bridge the gap between “knowing” and “acting.”

Why I Choose Not to Be a Politician
So, why don’t I pursue a political career? There are a few reasons.

1. My Strength Lies in Empathy and Listening
Through blogging and counseling, I have dedicated myself to listening to people’s stories and empathizing with their experiences. My greatest strengths are in “listening,” “accepting,” and “empathizing.” However, being a politician requires different qualities, such as making bold decisions and asserting personal beliefs. I often feel that my natural strengths don’t align with the demands of a political role.

2. I Don’t Want to Use My Disability as a “Tool”
As a person with a disability, I bring a unique perspective to societal issues. This perspective could indeed be a valuable asset in the political arena. However, I’m reluctant to leverage my experiences or identity as a person with a disability as a means to gain attention. While I’m proud of my identity, I prefer to contribute to society as an equal individual, not as a “special case.”

3. I Want to Make an Impact by Sharing My Voice
Rather than entering the political sphere, I believe my role is to be a communicator. By sharing my experiences and insights through my blog, I can inspire meaningful conversations and create small but tangible changes in society. This is how I want to make a difference.

My Desire to Contribute to Society
Even though I’ve decided not to become a politician, my desire to make society better remains strong. My commitment stems from my daily encounters with systemic issues and inequalities.

I believe there are many ways to contribute to society outside of politics. Through blogging, counseling, and public speaking, I aim to influence people’s perspectives and inspire change. Each person who resonates with my message can, in turn, inspire others. Together, we can build a better society, step by step.

Your Support is My Strength
Lastly, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you reading this. Your empathy and encouragement empower me to continue my work. While I may not become a politician, your voices fuel my motivation and guide me forward.

I will keep using my blog as a platform to share my thoughts and experiences. My hope is that these words reach as many people as possible, sparking conversations and inspiring action. To me, this is my way of contributing to society.

Thank you for your ongoing support. Let’s continue striving together toward a better future.

I believe that every voice matters. Together, we can take small steps to create a more inclusive society.