Thank You For All The Fish

Asia » Japan
August 2nd 2008

Published: September 5th 2008

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Yellow Head

Sayonara Streamers

trying to keep a firm grip on the steamers and my emotions in check as the boat slowly pulled away from the Uoshima port for the final time

Colorful streamers filled the air as they slowly unraveled from the hands of their holders and into the firm grip of mine. They fluttered through the air and led my eyes into those of the waving crowd of friends, co-workers, students, neighbors and acquaintances that filled the meager Uoshima dock and walkway. Everyone that had been a part of my life for those two amazing years was there, including old teachers who had transferred to city schools and had made the long journey back to the island once more to say goodbye. It was unlike anything I have ever experienced or seen before and it moved me to a point beyond words.

Sarah and my good friend Mr. Kuroda were at my side consoling me and recording the entirety of the teary spectacle at the hands of their cameras. As the boat continued its slow departure from the port the unforgettable tune of Deep Purples “Smoke on the Water” began to blare from the ferries loud speakers. It’s funny how a song that I never thought I would want to hear again could have meant so much to me at that moment. In a way, it has become my theme

Sayonara Streamers 2

the whole island came out to say goodbye...

song and it will continue to remind me of this small island that I came to know as a home and all the people that I came to know as friends over the course of those two years.

As tears slowly continued to roll down my face and the boat continued its way out of the harbor my waving friends slowly began to fade into the meshwork of the island. Eventually they disappeared entirely and I watched the island as it also slowly faded into the mist of the inland sea. It was only until that moment that I truly realized that I would never be going back. The thought of it was once again enough to make my eyes well up with tears as I tried to explain to Mr. Kuroda how sad it was to be leaving in an almost unintelligible burst of emotional Japanese.

He stood by my side with his always-friendly smile spread across his face as he told me not to be sad. He was happy that we had the chance to meet and become such good friends and even though I was leaving I would always live on in his memories. It

My Final View

goodbye Uoshima, goodbye friends and thank you for a fantastic 2 years

was a moment to cherish and remember fondly and that’s the way it will always remain.

Goodbye Uoshima, goodbye friends and thank you for everything.

“I know, I know I will never forget” (Deep Purple “Smoke on the Water”)

Additional photos below

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