Expats’ Lament

It came upon us like an elephant lumbering
And we ignored it like the elephant in the room
And now—long before you are gone—
I miss you already.

What more there is to you–
beyond the veil of this Korean affair
with all its intensities and countdowns–
I can only surmise.

 

Though I wrote the above to try and capture all of the friendships I have made while out here, it was written a few weeks ago when the impending departure of Janine loomed too large to ignore any more.  It will do well enough not to belabor the point.  I will only  say that in my time with Janine, I found a sense of home: comfort and contentment in that she allowed me to be myself at all times, as a good friend will do.  Is there really ever any other way to be?  And it’s not as bad as it may seem.  Sure, I am a little sad, but I think I will see her (and any other person I meet out here who is worth a damn) again.  

Upcoming events in the Pan Asian Theater:

 

1. A mystery tour of which the events and locations will be revealed after the weekend of August 11.  Companion: Big "Punchy" Paul.

 

2. Japan (August 23-29) after Summer Intensives are completed. Companion: none.

 

3. China (September 22-26) during the Korean Thanksgiving called Chu-Seok. Companion: possibly co-workers Amanda and Colin; possibly none.

 

4. Thailand (the last week of December).  Companion: "Punchy," maybe his wife SooYeon.  (not to mention, a bowl of Thailand’s finest).

 

Hope all is well in your world.  Keep me in the loop.

 

I am sure there will be other picture and journal-worthy happenings in between these jaunts, so continue to check regularly.