When living abroad, I think sometimes it's too easy to be critical of one's host country. But it's important to remember that every place has good points as well as bad points. I think perhaps I need to spend a little more time on the nice things about living here, lest I lapse into a world of bitterness and resentment.
The other day I was reminded of one of the things I find quite nice about people here in general. In America when you have a party, you're lucky if some of your good friends stick around afterwards to help you clean up. Back in college, my housemates and I would usually just go to sleep and clean up the next day.
 |
| My kind of party. |
In Japan, however, when it's time to wind things down, most people will pitch in and make the cleaning process a whole lot smoother and quicker. This year Dylan and I held a Halloween party on the second floor of a cafe near Awaji (in Osaka). We expected to end the party around 8 or 9ish and stay an extra hour or so to clean up. When we gave everyone the cue to filter out, however, they started cleaning up! Brilliant. I think that's something I'll miss when I go back home (though not too much, as my party throwing days may be limited).
Image source: Public Domain Pictures.net
I'm sure you'll think of others after you leave.
ReplyDeleteWhen I left Tokyo I was happy and relieved to get out of there. Now when I think of it, my mind doesn't allow me to remember the packed trains and the crowds. I really miss it.
Yeah, I'm sure I will. After my first and second times in Japan, I missed many things when I went back to the States.
ReplyDelete