It was with shock and sadness that tonight I heard that Rodger Swan had passed away. Whilst I had never met Rodger, like many of those who followed his life in Japan through his videos, I was very fond of him. It was impossible to not like the guy (read more by a close friend of his).
His death, following a sudden illness yesterday morning, serves as a powerful reminder that ultimately, what matters is loving, caring, sharing, and being true to yourself. And doing that today, not tomorrow.
The honesty with which he shared his life was touching. I found his attitude inspiring, and comforting too – knowing that this good person was out there.
When working in the media or living a networked life, striving to achieve business goals or chasing ‘success’, it’s only too easy to get swallowed up by pretence, and to sacrifice the practice of things that really matter for the sake of reaching superficial goals.
What matters at the end of the day though? I think it’s love, compassion, and being true to yourself.
And that’s what Rodger’s death reminds me.
Rodger, you shall be missed.
Rodger posted his last video 3 days ago.
Hey,
My name is Hector. I live in Mexico, and I´m aswell a fan of japanese culture. I´ve been watching Tokyo cooney´s videos for a year now and today I watched, Rodger Swan´s memorial. Been that I have never had the opportunity to go to Japan, this vlogs are a great source of entreteinment and of education as well. SO I’m sorry to find out that a cool vlogger passed a way.
Specially Rodger, eventhoug I just met him watching his vidoes and bio make realize what a kind person he was. I hope he rests in peace.
Thank you for everything that you gave us, by sharing your vids and just being yourself. I’m verry sad and it is most unfortunate that you have been taken away from us, your friends and especially your family. I will never forget you because you have one of the purest hearts I’ve ever seen. You will be missed by us!
Someday I’m going to tribute you by going to Japan! That I promise!
A fan from the Netherlands
J Camue
Too bad I didn’t have a chance to know this guy. Hanamaki is one of my favorite places in all of Japan..