さよなら日本

It’s amazing how much you can learn and experience without even knowing it. In my four months in Japan I have learned more about the Japanese culture and lifestyle than I could ever get from a book. I learned how to cook my favorite Japanese dishes, the correct behavior in various public settings, nijikai ettiquette, and my favorite, the art of sleeping while standing. I have also experienced many things that a tourist would not. I have played with Japanese children in the park, seen traditional and not so traditional festivals, went on a spur of the moment hike with a helpful stranger, played tennis on the top of a building, and attended business presentations (and that is just naming a very select few). This is just the tip of the iceberg (thanks to Garr Reynolds for teaching us that analogy) for my cultural understanding of Japan, but it was enough to open my eyes to this unique culture. I am sure that I will return someday. There is so much more that I have not seen, experienced, and learned about the Japanese. I hope one day to attend a Hanshin Tigers game, climb Fujisan, visit an onsen, and see a sumo tournament. However, I would not give up these four months for anything. They have changed my perspective of the Japanese and opened doors for my future. All these things I have done are things that may seem small to some; but to me, they rank right up there behind my photographs. Now the hard part begins…the early morning goodbyes followed by over 24 hours of travel.

To conclude this final entry from Japan, I would like to thank Garr Reynolds. Thank you for all of the opportunities you have given us this semester. You are truly a great person, with an amazing background, and a true connection to your students. Thank you especially for inviting us to all of the DesignMatters and ACCJ presentations. They were interesting, beneficial, and fun.