In 11 days I will watch my Japanese identity as I know it turn into dust and blow away in a large, metal, flying object.
They have not let up: it has been implied again and again that I have somehow hurt this town by staying 'only' one year. One year, apparently, means very little to some of the people here. I guess I was asking for too much when hoping that people would have nothing but thanks after dedicating a year of my life to this town (but that's individualistic thinking, something that rarely exists here). The worst part is that the decision was made almost five months ago.... (For the record, many people don't guilt trip me, especially the kids - they seem to be the most understanding).
Still my heart pours out over this place and its beauty, its wonderful people, its peace. As much as I am still the one tall white man who roams the land here, I have also become somewhat Japanese during my time here. I still hit my head on the low door frames, but I now can communicate on all of the most important levels with the people here. They don't always treat me like a stranger; I am one of them, and now they must see me away. That's why I also completely understand their reaction to my year long stay.
So may the last 11 days be full of life and experience.
3 comments:
With the days running out I've decided that I probably won't be writing on Japan in general and that it might be a mistake to try to. Not only do I have so little time that I shouldn't be wasting it at the computer screen, but also, leaving soon means that my mind is a little convoluted as well. Hope you are well, t
hello ted, i was really happy to see you yesterday. im sorry we didnt have more time to talk. actually, i was a little nervous. i wanted to tell you in person how much i love your writing. hope goshoura was good to you, some call it the jurassic park of japan. Good luck with IndTV, it sounds really cool, I look forward to reading about your new adventures. when I say some people, I mean me.
I'm impressed with your site, very nice graphics!
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