I even miss those days...
The new year has started (Note: the Japanese school year begins in April). Some of you may be starting something new or changing your environment, right? When I was living in the U.S., I couldn't get used to the idea that the school year begins in September. I also couldn't get used to the daylight saving time.
When I went to language school, my routine was to wake up at around 6 am every morning on weekdays, and walk for about an hour to get to the school. My host family had offered to drive me to school, and then pick me up, but I preferred to walk. Now that I don't have to go to work at a specific time, I miss that lifestyle sometimes.
At school or at work, you can meet friends, right? It's nice to meet people on a daily basis.
I can imagine some of you thinking that it isn't really like that. There may be people at work or school that we don't like, and it's not fun to have to see them everyday. I guess the grass is always greener on the other side. I'm just missing what I can't have now, so please read the rest of the article lol
When I was in elementary school, we had school attendance groups, led by 5th graders, and 6th graders, who would gather the children in the neighborhood, and lead them to school. Even now, when I go out for a walk early in the morning, I greet my neighbors, who are much older than me. Children going to school also greet me cheerfully. Such things make me want to cry, as they remind me of when I was in elementary school.
New challenges in the Spring
I had a really hard time getting up in the morning, and I hated going to school, but me and my friends would walk alongside the rice fields for about 40 minutes every morning talking nonsense and making fun of our teacher (sorry Shimono-sensei). I realize now how great those times were. Back then I wanted to leave school as soon as possible, but now, I wish I could go back. It was really nice back then. I don't know why, but that's what I have been thinking about lately. But now, I am an adult.
Well, let me share what I will be doing this new year.
First, I am the MC on an NHK E educational program called "NHK High School Course: English Communication I". Doing this has made me feel like I enjoy learning English again. I have already recorded some episodes, and I try to speak clearly and in a relaxed way, so that the viewers don't struggle. But if you find that boring, I will see what I can do.
I will also be appearing in the Asahi TV drama "My cuteness (kawaii) is about to expire!?". This is my first regular role in a drama, and I have been enjoying filming, as well as learning. I hope you look forward to it.
Although I have been doing new and different things, I always try to learn through trial and error. I try to feel grateful for what I have in the present moment. Before it's over.
I hope everyone has a happy new year.
A picture from the recording studio of NHK High School Course. It looks like I'm going to eat the flowers.
