Thanksgiving
American holidays in other countries are always hard. Even though I've only had experience being in Japan when there are American holidays, I imagine it is hard for other ex-pats, too.
Today is a regular work day. Christmas will be a regular work day as well. There is something really sad and disheartening about that, but I can't really change anything. I had a hard enough time taking one day off, I shudder to think of what would happen if I asked for a week to go to a wedding, or heaven forbid, have to go to a funeral.
I couldn't sleep last night so I laid in bed worrying about that. What if I have a family emergency? What would happen? Would I be able to get time to go home? I know when my co-worker had problems she was allowed to go, but somehow I feel like the rules are different for me because I'm a foreign teacher. I know I shouldn't worry about that kind of stuff because it doesn't help matters regardless, but still.
So, what am I thankful for? Well, I'm thankful for a steady job that allows me to pay back my student loans. I'm thankful for efficient trains that almost always run on time. I'm thankful for the very few friends I've managed to make here. I'm thankful for my health, for my nationality and for my sex to make living here safe and wholly inviting. I'm thankful for the loving family that I have in America and while I can't be with them, I really wish that they, in all their individual ways, have a wonderful and lovely holiday.
This year alone is going to be hard, but I'm going to keep trying my best. Hopefully I will be able to find my path and enjoy the journey instead of constantly wishing that I was already at my destination. Wish me luck!
Happy thanksgiving!