Unexpected Encounter: A Last-Minute Meeting Leads to a Memorable Experience
As I crossed the street in front of my house to pick up the guests at Hankyu Arashiyama Station, I heard a woman’s voice calling out to me. I couldn’t quite make out what she was saying, but since there was no one else around, it must have been for me. I turned around and saw two women running towards me. I immediately realized that they were the guests who had signed up for today’s tea ceremony workshop. They had gotten off at the bus stop in front of my house and happened to see me, who they assumed was the guide for today, walking towards Arashiyama Station.
I had sent them an email the day before with a picture of myself holding a printout with the Australian flag, so they should have known what I looked like. But what a coincidence! If they hadn’t noticed me, they would have had to walk all the way to the station, which is the meeting place.
Sydney, where Emely and Suvanna are from, is Australia’s largest city and a vibrant harbor city. It is known for its iconic landmarks such as the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, beautiful beaches, and warm climate. It is an international city where people from diverse cultures gather. Oh, I would love to go there!
During my time as a teacher at Kyoto Bunkyo High School, I had the opportunity to take my international class students to Cabra Dominican College in Adelaide. I still remember the warmth and kindness I received from Simon, a staff member at Cabra. Adelaide, a cultural city where British charm blends harmoniously with nature, has become an unforgettable city for me.
Australia must have many more wonderful cities to discover. Naoko and I would love to befriend people from all over Australia and share wonderful moments with everyone through the practice of tea ceremony.
Shortly after Emely and Suvanna left Komurasaki An, I received an email from them. I was so happy to hear that they enjoyed the workshop.
Hi Aki & Naoko, We just wanted to send our kindest regards and say thank you so much for welcoming us in to your home today and showing us a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. We really enjoyed our time and appreciate your kindness and hospitality. We hope to be able to visit again one day! Emely & Suvanna
