Opening Act

In the concert of my final two weeks, this one sets the anticipation

Finals are in three days, and I am ready. My current semester’s section is known to be particularly punishing, and with it aligning with my final months in the country I’ve been trying to give time to studies while embracing the possibilities of Tokyo. There are many, too many, I think, for even a lifetime. Those possibilities and experiences are what I’ll be focusing on after the exam; checking the last few things off the list and giving goodbyes to the friends I’ve made along the way before my parents arrive next week and we embark on a tour of the hits.

But before you get to the good stuff, it’s important to set the scene. That’s why I’m likening this week to the opening act of a performance; it will be slightly unwelcome, awkward, at times even painful, but also endearing while building anticipation for the top-billed. What’s progress without a little adversity?

The evening of the finals there will be a ceremony for the students leaving after the semester ends, where each of us will give a short speech about our time here. I’ll share mine here:

皆さん、

今年のすばらしさはとても言葉では言い表せません。日本語や日本のことにはもちろん、自分や命にもたくさん習いました。3か月間ＫＣＰで勉強した人にしたらだけでなく私のように9か月間勉強した人も一瞬のように儚かったに感じします。しかし、先生たちや友達の親切さのおかげで濃く感動して帰国します。人生の道が多いですね。この道を歩んでいて本当にうれしい。

絶対に日本語を勉強し続けて、皆さんと連絡を取り合うつもりです。支えてくれて心底からありがとうございます。また次回。

Everyone,

I really can’t express how wonderful this last year has been. I’ve of course learned a lot about Japan and the language, but also about myself and life as well. Not only for those who have studied at KCP for three months, but also for those like me who have studied here for nine, we feel it’s been as fleeting as an instant. There are many paths in life. I’m truly happy to be walking this one.

I will certainly plan to continue studying Japanese and keep in touch with all of you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for all the support you’ve given me. Until next time.

I’ve also found out that enough of us in the koto club will be leaving that we’ll be putting on a short one song performance during the graduation ceremony. Look forward to a video next week.

Farewell, koto club room

Thanks also to you, for reading and keeping me going throughout these few months. The headlining act is a real head-banger.

愛を持って、

With Love,

gb

These letters are inspired by the Earwyrms playlist and newsletter. Read it here.