Even more experiences.

I've mentioned before that the secondary school I work at is attached to an affiliated high school. Well, last week the principal of the high school died, after suffering from pancreatic cancer for some months. Of course it's sad, but actually I've never met him, and don't even know what he looked like outside of the photo of him in their school brochure. So I can only wonder how the high school's staff and students feel. I wonder if they'll replace him right away, or go through a mourning period. I wonder about a lot of things.

All teachers, from both schools, are required to go to the funeral tomorrow. And I don't want to say I'm excited about it or looking forward to it, since there's no way that can sound any way other than callous and disrespectful, but... As someone who has spent a great deal of time and energy studying this culture, this is quite a rare and unexpected opportunity. Up until now, I've never even thought about getting to see a Japanese funeral, much less that I'd get to see one so soon after moving here.

Just like how I never thought I'd get to see Japan suffer and overcome a great tragedy, like the March earthquake.


I feel like this year has lasted forever.



I've seen so much.