OK, anyhow our cultural activity on Wednesday was Calligraphy. I have a high opinion of calligraphy, especially after watching HERO where they pain using giant brushes while arrows are raining down... anyhow. In calligraphy stroke order on the kanji really matters, so I had to recall how to properly write the kanji (apparently it does make a difference). You have to write all of the characters very slowly, and kinda breathe at the right times- it helps with the technique. Also, Japanese are into the idea of religion permeating everyday activities, such as writing. I think I did pretty good at calligraphy, I was complimented a lot by the instructor. Ironic because my normal handwriting is quite terrible.
On the way back to my house, I made small talk with an old Japanese lady who did what few other japanese do and sat in the same seat as me, a hulking foreigner. People tend to give me a wide berth here. She was a bit hard to understand because she talked fast and with a bit of the local accent, but she seemed nice enough and complimented me on my Japanese. She gave me two little teddy bears on keychains for no reason, which was very kind of her. This, among other experiences, has led me to think that elderly Japanese are the nicest japanese to talk to. They are very kind (possibly condescending, but thats ok) and tend to help me out and give me random presents :D
I am glad you are getting to know the man (or woman) on the street in Kanazawa, Aux Daught. I am proud of you for your journey, and I know you will bring back memories for a lifetime. I leave tomorrow for Butte to bring home your aux sis for her summer break. Weather is perfect - 70 degrees and clear through the weekend. We look forward to seeing you!
ReplyDeleteThat must be my dad who posted, because he is the only one that would talk about the weather.
ReplyDeleteBut in related news, it seems you were just born to live in Japan, judging by your handwriting and language skillz.