Introspection

My internship in Japan was the first time I had been in a non-English speaking country for an extended period. With this, came a unique set of challenges, but also the benefit of introspection.

It’s hard. Not knowing if you’re buying oil or vinegar in the grocery store, attempting to order vegetarian meals and failing miserably, navigating a business environment with such a large barrier. These were several times where I felt exasperated by Japan — everyday errands just took so much more time and energy than usual because they normally involved a lot of gesturing and google translate.

Now don’t get me wrong — this was not an issue of hostility from the locals. All smiled and tried their best to communicate with me. But, I craved for conversations to flow, as they did at home. To be able to understand the nuances of what was being said. I felt stupid — that I was the only one not understanding the deals being sealed in the business meetings, that I could not even ask for or understand directions…

But in a conversation with a fellow Minervan, we realized that the language barrier had actually had its unique benefits. “I think a lot more than I speak now,” he said. I resonated with this. I had far more time to consider what words would come out of my mouth. I journaled and reflected more. I have become closer to myself.

Although being in a foreign country can be uncomfortable, it is this discomfort that forces you to, to listen to yourself and your thoughts, and hopefully, build a closer connection with the person you have become. Thank you, Japan, not only for showing me the beauty of your country, but also the beauty of introspection