So our plans were as follows:
10:00 a.m: Distribution.
12:00 p.m: Lunch.
1:00 p.m: Personal Time.
3-5:00 p.m: 5-Minute English.
My favorite thing about the weather in Japan, (Please heed my completely facetious condescending attitude when I say this) is that rainfall doesn't exactly mean cooler weather. In fact, it typically means more perspiration in crevices I don't prefer to find sweat in. Also, the weather is completely moody and bipolar. Okay, done whining about that. :)
What's special about the weather from this past Tuesday...is that I momentarily forgot I was in Tokyo! I actually felt like I was on a one day retreat to San Francisco. Low 70s, 10 mph breeze...and a medium rainfall with profoundly pregnant raindrops. :)
So due to the erratic weather-our schedule took a quick veer in another direction. Guess what that means? Starbucks. Coffee ministry is the best! I met a girl named Miki. I was playing Japanese Speed with Jordan, and Miki looked over at me and timidly attempted to speak english. "Su-me-ma-sen?" I said, with a patient grin. (Excuse me?) We got to talking, and though her english was very broken, she was excited and eager to practice with me, and even more excited when I handed her a Japanese Manga! (Which is narrated in the form of the Gospel of John). Miki was very sweet, and so grateful to receive a "presento."
After Miki left, another woman sat down next to us. Maybe about 27, with kind eyes, defined cheekbones, and delicate skin. Also, a little baby keeping her company inside her tummy. We looked over, trying not to be obvious about the fact that we were studying her, and couldn't help but notice the novel she had opened. It was in english!!! Perfect conversation starter. "Su-me-ma-sen?" "Yes?" She asked with a tender smile. (Sigh of relief-she really does speak english). We carried on in conversation, and exchanged information about ourselves. She had mentioned living in Spain a few years, and studying abroad at UCLA in Southern California. I prayed that God would lead and guide the conversation. He did, but unfortunately she wasn't interested in knowing much more about my purpose in being here in Japan. I gave her my contact information anyway, and she said she would let me know the next time she decides to enjoy a Grande Caramel Frappuccino inside of the Starbucks in Tachicawa. (I told you I studied her). I hope we get the chance to meet again. :)
Though rainy days may be spent indoors, they are not always spent in vain...
"The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps..." Proverbs 16:9.
