Formally named the Tokyo Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market, the world’s largest seafood shop is better known as the Tsukiji Fish Market for the train and subway stations nearby. World renown for its tuna auctions with some of the five hundred pound behemoths going for more than ten grand, this event only takes a portion of the market space that deals with over 2000 metric tons of seafood covering some 400 species- every day(see pictures below the fold). I was on the train before the sun rose this morning to catch the auctions and have an extremely fresh sushi breakfast at one of the small restaurants located within the market.
So how do I relate a trip to the Tokyo seafood supply to recovery or addiction? Before you click “read more”, take a look at that extremely long knife these two gentlemen are using to filet the large tuna and see if it gives you a heads up.
Now click “Read more” to continue…
The knife is called an oroshi hocho, it’s a six foot cutting utensil resembling more a sword than knife that sometimes takes up to three men to handle. The two guys in the picture were using a makeshift handle on the dangerous end of this king sized knife to not only make it easier to get the job done, but because they are able to filet with more precision leaving little meat on the bone.
I too benefitted from teaming up with a partner, I met a guy from Boston on the walk out from the station and we took on the market together. Not only did having another English speaker along embolden my exploration of this fascinating place, his sharp eyes helped us find a much sought after sushi place that had yet to develop a line. We walked right in and the food was excellent, the line was twenty deep when we exited. If you are reading this Gerard, I enjoyed meeting you and the fabulous breakfast too!
There is no doubt that cooperation between those in recovery is also extremely beneficial. Sponsorship and support are the keys to success especially in early recovery. Just as important though, is the courage we gain from being part of a group that can embolden us to explore further our recovery… much like Gerry and I tackling the market together this morning. Just having someone with a common goal and sharing the experience reduced my uneasiness in this intimidating environment. Even though the workers were cordial and showed a remarkable amount of patience with tourist- they did have awful big, bloody knives!
Enjoy the pics;
