Adanna Simon

"Despite what many people of the outside world may think, Motoyama town is full of vitality. On a Sunday afternoon, when I had no plans for the weekend and was tired of being at home watching “Jane the Virgin,” I decided to get off of my bed and do something. And so, with my renewed passion for writing I decided I would take a walk and find a place to write. I adorned myself in my favourite black Harry Potter sweater, with a mustard coloured slim fitted cotton skirt and hat to match, and headed towards Joki Coffee. I had the image of sitting in a beautiful café, surrounded by beautifully carved wooden architecture and furniture, with a symphony of Japanese music and soothing background chatter from neighboring couples. I also imagined being surprised when I saw a friend passing by while I typed away on my laptop.

I was astonished however, to discover that the café was closed but rock music could be heard just beyond it. Bewildered, yet a bit disappointed, I fought the urge to return home, and ventured towards the sound. Passing an old couple headed towards Sora, the dessert shop and crossing the bridge over the Yoshino river, I made my way to what seemed like a hiking trail that led to a small park guarded by a stone statue of Mr. Motoyama, as I call him, clothed in the traditional Japanese wear, the kimono.

A few of my students and their families sold delicious foods, and foreigners gathered together talking and listening to the live performance. I waved hello to my students, then made my way towards the music. The park is large enough to hold a stage and a crowd of one hundred people or more. I didn’t know the name of the rock band, but it didn’t matter. The energy of the crowd and the dynamic performance of the guitarist made me want to join in chorus, “Ja-pan, Jaaaa-pan”. With fists high and bodies moving exuberantly, it was hard not to love it.

Singing and swaying to the music made me forget my previous disappointment. I was grateful for my first Japanese rock band experience amongst my students and the villagers of Motoyama and it reminded me of a quote from 22 Motivational Quotes Blog, “In the waves of change, we find our direction.” What I had planned to do didn’t happen, instead I was granted a wish from my top things to do in my “Japan Bucket List,” an experience that would be told to my children in years to come."

Adanna Simon (2nd Year ALT, Motoyama-Cho)