[280301]

I think a multitude of different opinions, and how people will express their grief over Ayu's career ending sooner than what they believed it would, will emerge...particularly as time goes on.

I myself don't know how to receive it yet - on one hand, I feel Ayu's decision is very stubborn and potentially accelerates the issues she is experiencing, and on the other, I empathize and relate to her dilemma, this isn't a decision she would have taken lightly and thus her decision should be respected. This is her ultimate passion, and it's just so cruel that it also comes with such pain and struggle. I admire her greatly for pursuing her passion no matter what obstacle, but I also can't help but feel great hesitance - this is one of her senses, this won't only impact her passion, but all other facets of her life. I want her to continue singing, but I also hope that she takes care of herself, particularly given the serious tone of the post regarding her health issues.

There's a lot I wish to write, there's many feelings - some that could be described as insensitive, others that could be deemed more empathetic and understanding. Then again, much of it seems so unfounded - it's not as if Ayu has explicitly come out and said 'my hearing only has x amount of time left, this is my last tour, album, etc.' Reading back on what she has said about her hearing in the past, this revelation isn't exactly new? She's gone into more depth about it in this post than she has previously, but I think she's always been honest about the state of her hearing.

At the end of the day, all we can do is support Ayu! (and each other!)