I Don’t Want to be a Hermit

So I posted about my placement and how I was a little sad that it is away from everyone. But with what happened last night, I am not going to let it affect me in my ability to make some friends here in Japan.

Yesterday, we had an ALT meeting at the capital in Mito. So I got up at 6am and left for the station at 6:15am, got there at 6:35am-ish, and caught the train to Oyama and then to Mito. The whole trip was about two hours more or less and cost about ￥1500 ($15). Luckily that fare and the trip back are all paid for since it is technically a business trip. After the presentations and talks and questions and stuff, we finished at around 5:30pm and headed off to the popular bar in Mito.

At first, I was a little reserved since I find it hard to bring up things to talk about and then there is that awkward silence… So I just sit and listen and comment on a few things throughout the night, all the while thinking and worrying a little about how I was going to get home (this trip was the first time going to Mito on my own by train). As the night progressed (and the drinks in me increased), I found myself letting loose a little bit and having a great time. I talked to some new people and made some new friends. Now there are other trips and plans in the works that I want to be a part of.

I was skeptical at first making trips out to Mito or Tokyo or really anywhere I can’t drive, but then I realize that I am in Japan and I need to take risks. Yeah, I won’t understand much of anything. Yeah, I will get lost. Yeah, I will put myself out there in the hopes that others would accept me. As my favorite YouTuber Danny from Ninja Sex Party and Game Grumps says, “experiences over possessions. That’s how you should spend your money.” I have been trying to operate under this mentality and so far, doing well. Aside from the necessities like food and bills, I have been either buying things for my apartment or saving it for other things.

And even though it costs me a little less than $30 by train to go to Mito, the friends I make and experiences I have will be worth it.

Although trips out to Tokyo would be way better 😉