We had a farewell party earlier this month. I thought I would feel more somber and depressed during it, but the energy was too good in the dorm. At the end, we all stood up and talked about our experience in Tamadaira. I nearly choked up during my speech, but I tried to hold it together. Hearing what everyone had to say about their experiences here was deeply emotional. I made some lifelong friends in the dorm, and watching them speak about what has gone by was hard. I ended up mentioning all the food we'd shared together, and we all cheered. It was a fun moment. I don't think I will ever have an experience like this again in my life. I write this quite literally as I prepare to leave. I'm in a cab headed for Haneda airport. I cried so heavily as I left. Everyone I was closest to who hadn't already gone home was there, and I hugged all of them and let the tears stream down. It was so much harder than I expected. I'm not sure what to do with myself during this ride. I feel a little embarrassed since the cab driver saw me crying so much. I know I'll be back someday, but this period is over, and there's no getting it back. I'm excited to see my family, but there's so much about my life that's going to change. I learned a lot in Japan: about myself, about the country that I've come to love, and about the people who have all touched me in ways I never even imagined possible. It has been amazing and scary and overwhelming and beautiful, and I'm so glad I undertook this journey despite the fear. Goodbye, Japan.
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AuthorThis is a blog that details my experiences in Japan. Archives
August 2015
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