Today is the 7th, which gives me just over a week left in Japan. Hard to believe I will really be boarding a plane and leaving so soon. I have a short list of things I still want to see or buy, but even if I had another month here, it wouldn't feel like enough time. I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay.
Despite all the ups and downs, I have no regrets. I'm not really one of those people who thinks that every little happening in life is orchestrated by a divine hand, but I do honestly feel that everything about my trip to Japan has worked out for the best. Of course, it remains to be seen whether I can find a job in the near future, but I still have hope in that department. Other than that, my unexpected departure from academic life has allowed me to experience more of Japan than I ever would have had I remained chained to a desk for 14 hours a day. I have made one very, very good friend, met some other great people, and am in serious danger of falling in love with one adorable Indonesian. My Japanese is still pretty shaky, but hopefully I have learned enough that I will keep plugging away once I return to the Land of English.
And I definitely hope to come back. Kyoto alone is enough to draw me back here... and hopefully a few good friends will still be in the country and eager to go out for karaoke and dancing. And food! Mmmm, sashimi.
