This is an inspirational book for me for many reasons.
First, the life of Mineko shows that it's possible to achieve whatever you'd like. The human capability is truly limitless. You just have to be proactive about it.
Mineko worked hard to improve her dance skills and became Number One. "I practiced like a madwoman. I changed into dance clothes as soon as I walked in the house at night and rehearsed until I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer. Some nights I only got one hour of sleep."
Hard work beats talent.
Second, I can personally relate to Mineko, especially in her introversion and her preference to stay quiet. She says "The fact is, I didn't like people. I hadn't when I was a little girl and I still didn't. My distaste for other people hindered me professionally as well as personally. It was my biggest shortcoming as a maiko. But I had no choice. I had to force myself to pretend that I liked everyone." I can relate to this as an introvert. But despite not liking most people, she made life-lasting relationships with a group of people and she is happily married with a beautiful child. Then this too, is possible for me.
Third, as a geiko, Mineko had to learn how to deal with people eloquently and professionally. This can be learned with lots of practice, as shown by Mother Sakaguchi how dealt with differences in a way that was nonreactive and beneficial for all concerned.
Take people's questions seriously and answer clearly & to the point.
"Self-disicpline is the key to beauty."
Pride
"Smile more. Maintain a kind and gentle expression on my face."
