I’m approaching the last month of my current living situation.  I have been gradually passing things off to friends who have recently come to Japan and are in need.
Last night I packed my backpack.  Inside I placed: a blender, a hot water bottle, three mufflers, one blanket, three articles of clothing, 6 cup holders for paper cups, an American flag scarf, and 4 decks of playing cards.  I then walked to the apartment complex of two young teachers I have recently become acquainted with.  In Japan, teachers are sometimes lucky enough to get the apartment of their predecessors and thus they “inherit” many essentials.  However, these two had the pleasure of being the first, in their apartments, and have only bare essentials. Â
I’m sure, they will quickly accumulate things as I have.  I do not wish to add clutter to their lives, only things that are useful or necessary.  I believe what I selected for them was very useful and my gifts were met with much excitement.  It’s hard to think about the winter in the midst of hot July, but the winter items were accepted gladly, and I know they will be a necessity for them, as the winters in Kanazawa are quite cold.
As I walked back home, my backpack empty, the rain came.  Softly, at first, and slowly.  Then, gradually, in a downpour.  It felt as if so much was being washed away.  I felt freer.  I’m one step closer to being released from the prison I have created for myself.
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