I've noticed something interesting in regards to speaking in Japanese. Even though I generally speak to everybody with the same vocabulary (the very little I know), only some Japanese can completely understand what I'm saying. Most people I've met can understand what I'm saying nearly all the time. Once in a while, however, I meet someone who I have lots more difficulty communicating with.
When meeting new Japanese folks, I always make it a point to teach them the most important words in English: that is, all the curse words.
Lo' and behold! I have arrived at last!
I actually got a little teary-eyed when the plane landed.
Nonetheless, I'll skip the mundane details and get to the fancy bits! I saw a 60 year old woman smoking. I saw a middle-aged lady with blue hair. I've seen the loose socks and the super-tanned gals with tons of make-up on. I ate at MOS Burger (pretty damned good!). I've had my first meal. I registered for my gaijin card. I registered for health insurance. I opened a bank account with 1 yen in it. I met a cool fellow working at a local restaurant. I checked out my apartment's neighborhood. I purchased a hanko (stamp used like a
signature).
I heard a guy talking to a girl on the street, and he said: "aonori... aonori no hou ga ii" and I understood what he was talking about! (Basically: "blue seaweed... blue seaweed is better") Hey, I used to sell fish; I know sushi stuff. :P (BTW: gold is better!)
I still have to get a cellphone.
And I haven't spoken with anyone in English since I left immigration at the airport where I helped some militia get into the right line. I can't believe I opened a bank account in Japanese!
Alright, boys and girls. It's been a hectic time in preparation, and here comes the real deal.
The next time you hear from me, I'll be on foreign soil. By the time you read this, I'll either be cuddling up to my copy of Banana Yoshimoto's Tsugumi on the plane or getting myself into strange and adventerous mischief with new friends.
The plot of Ivan's life thickens!