I was able to spent a few precious days during
the Portland trip thanks to my great friends, teachers and the bus driver, Matt.
I could experience precious things and enjoy spending time in Oregon. It was
totally amazing and I was touched by many things throughout this trip.
First
of all, I was really glad to visit two different schools on this trip. On the
first day, we visited Columbia Basin College and talked with students who are
learning Japanese as a second language. My partner was fascinated by Japanese,
he showed his interest in my presentation topic because it was about Kanji,
Japanese language. He asked me some interesting questions and told me why he
thinks Kanji is interesting for him. It was really nice talking with him. On
the second day, we visited Portland English Language Academy. At this school,
the students are learning English as a second language, so it was a little
different atmosphere from CBC. I talked with a Saudi Arabian and he had not
recognized Kanji as Japanese language at first. I recognize Arabic is a language
for Saudi Arabians, so I was surprised a little and I learned Kanji is not
widely known in the world. However, I enjoyed teaching him Kanji and he looked
like he was having fun, so I was glad. Also, he said to me Kanji is wonderful,
and it made me happy. I thought to respect each other’s country or culture is very
important and want to learn English and Japanese more from this experience.
Second
of all, to visit a Japanese-American Memorial was one of my treasured memories.
In Japan, I had not learned about Japanese-Americans deeply. If I had not come
to MFWI as an Extension student, I might not have learned about them and been
interested in visiting their memorial. When I was reading their poems, I was
sad and imagined how difficult it was for Japanese-Americans to live in America
at that time. As Ron said to us, I think we must learn history to avoid making
same mistakes again. I appreciate my teachers made a good opportunity to visit
this memorial.
Finally,
I learned the importance of a local business in this trip. On the second day,
we ate lunch at Tebo’s Restaurant. The hamburger was delicious and the clerks
were very kind and friendly, and I liked the atmosphere. When we were on the
bus after lunch, teachers taught us it was because of a local business. Some
people think to have connection with local community is important, so the
clerks speak to customers in a friendly way, and they enjoy their conversation.
I thought it was great. The percentage of a local business is decreasing
because of the development, but I think we have to hold this tradition.
In
conclusion, I could spend phenomenal days at the Portland trip not only just have
fun but also learn and think about precious things. It became a great memory
and I will never forget this memory in my life.