Part 2: “I
think I’m getting the hang of this place – I don’t feel like a “fish out of
water” anymore!”
Several weeks into my academic year program and I still feel a sense of urgency to return to my family and friends. But I also am feeling a greater desire to stay in Japan for a bit longer. Suddenly, things like the tiny aisles in stores – that seem to only accommodate the width of a single person, don’t bother me so much anymore. And speaking primarily in Japanese to strangers in public no longer makes me a nervous wreck or turn me into a “worrywart” about saying the “wrong thing”. I have even come to realize and accept that no what store I shop at, there really is no such thing as a “SALE” (unless you really call 10-20% a “great” sale)! Rather than feeling huffy, I look for alternatives like second hand shops for clothes instead of mainstream stores, and also mom-and-pop shops instead of generic grocery stores.
Several weeks into my academic year program and I still feel a sense of urgency to return to my family and friends. But I also am feeling a greater desire to stay in Japan for a bit longer. Suddenly, things like the tiny aisles in stores – that seem to only accommodate the width of a single person, don’t bother me so much anymore. And speaking primarily in Japanese to strangers in public no longer makes me a nervous wreck or turn me into a “worrywart” about saying the “wrong thing”. I have even come to realize and accept that no what store I shop at, there really is no such thing as a “SALE” (unless you really call 10-20% a “great” sale)! Rather than feeling huffy, I look for alternatives like second hand shops for clothes instead of mainstream stores, and also mom-and-pop shops instead of generic grocery stores.
 |
| The nearby Thai restaurant adds a nice extra "touch" to my meal (I visit this place frequently and always try to practice my Japanese with the owners!) |
I no longer feel depressed and terribly anxious
wanting to take the next plane back to California. In fact, life in
Tokyo is starting to feel
normal- almost to the point that it is a little bit boring. I
am cognizant that because I haven’t lived even a full year in Japan, there
will be new encounters and problems that I may not be fully prepared for.
However, I finally KNOW that I have the mental, physical, and psychological
ability to overcome these challenges.
 |
| "外さん" (Foreigner san)- I think if this happened to me at the beginning of my study abroad trip, I would have been a bit mad. Now, I can't help but laugh! At least the noodles were delicious! |
 |
| There will come a time when your life becomes brighter and you become more confident that you can accomplish anything! |
End of Part 2
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.