Thank you, Ichinomiya

This last Thursday in America was Thanksgiving, a time when we reflect on our year and count our blessings. I thought about this year and despite the roller coaster it was I am most thankful for the people I’ve met in Japan.

It’s been a week since I left my job and while my body has purged every last bit of stress that comes with working for a Japanese company, my mind is still on my students, friends, and former co-workers.

I really can’t get over how lucky I was to have met such great people. I’ve spent nearly every day in the last week hanging out with some of these wonderful humans in their homes, over meals, in their cars, and with their kids. It doesn’t seem real.

I came to Japan not knowing a single person; just two emergency phone numbers of people I’d never met. Two years later I’m leaving with 200+ students and friends cheering me on on my next adventure.

Last night a friend asked what my favorite part of Japan was, and as much as I love the food and sights, it always comes back to the people here. This year was difficult and probably the most challenging in my life so far but simply put, I would’ve left a long time ago if it weren’t for the people I’ve met here, especially my students.

I have no idea how to thank them, many of whom I now consider friends. For the students who are reading this, I really am so grateful.

Thank you for teaching me about Japan and for making me feel more culturally balanced, something I’ve been looking for my whole life.

Thank you for being patient with my lack of Japanese abilities and for making the effort to explain things to me in my primary language even though it was difficult for you.

Thank you for caring for me when I was sick or injured.

Thank you for trying your best in class even though you had a rough day.

Thank you for being my tour guide and culture teacher.

Thank you for feeding me some of the most delicious food I’ve ever eaten.

Thank you for giving me life advice and tips on how to be a better functioning adult.

Thank you for giving me a reason to go to work when I didn’t want to and for giving me the stability I needed to stay sane amidst this last unstable year.

Thank you for giving me a reason to come back in the future.

Thank you for an unforgettable two years, Ichinomiya!