Random Rumblings
I was throwing out my can drink when I heard a shout from down the hallway, “Thomas! Thomas!” I pretended not to hear it, until the student recalled my actual name. I turned and then noticed that it was one of the students that I never saw in class. At least it wasn’t one of my students that had forgotten my name… I have been here for 7 months now. Anyways, turns out the student just wanted to inform me that she saw me in Takayama this weekend with my girlfriend. How nice of her. I occasionally forget about the ripples I cause everywhere I go. Yesterday it happened too, now that I think about it. Will and I went into the convenience store together, and it was quiet while we were in there… but as we passed through the door on the way out there was resounding thunder of people whispering to each. Actually, I like going to places with Will for this reason. Suddenly, it’s not about how tall I am… it’s about how tall all westerners are. A stereotype that’s just plain fun for me.
Not very many events to report… Aiko’s farewell party was on Saturday. She leaves for Australia today. I guess she’s probably in Nagoya now as I type this, and on her plane by the time this thing gets posted. With her out of the country, I now need to find new ways to occupy my time. I need some DS recommendations (I’m talking to you Nathan)! And, a few good book recommendations would be appreciated too. I’m currently reading “Great Expectations”. It was Thomas’ old copy, and I found it in the back of a closet. I wonder, if I buy a Wii out here can I play North American games on it?
I do have a small piece of advice for any incoming JETs who are coming out here this July / August. In my first month here, I watched The Life Aquatic, and at the end of it there’s a line that has haunted me for my entire stay in Japan. “It’s an adventure.” Everytime that something good, or bad or unexpected happens, these words pop into my head. It dampens the harsh blows and accentuates the good times. I’m not sure why it works, or if it would work for anyone else, but I’m putting it out there for you to try.
Oh, and one last thing! I have to do a presentation for one class on Michael J. Fox on Thursday, and while researching it a little I discovered that the Back to the Future rides in Universal Studios Hollywood and Florida have been closed to create a “Simpsons Ride”. Universal Studios Osaka is the last place where you can ride it! I’m not sure entirely why, but I’m actually a little outraged that Back to the Future would be closed for a Simpsons ride. One, a classic trilogy, the other, a show that should have died a decade ago. Back to the Future was always one of my favorite rides at Universal Studios… and it’s sad to see that only us in Japan can enjoy it now.
Thing I miss most about Canada today: Mike singing Meatloaf’s “I’d Do Anything For Love” while driving in the car to places.
Thing I love most about Japan today: Going to karaoke!
