FRIENDSHIP AND PATIENCE
30.12.2024
We had lunch with my long-time friend Nozomi and her daughter Ema at YouMe Town. We always make sure to catch up with them whenever we’re back in Shunan. Ema had been so excited to play with Rob that she had been telling everyone at the childcare center about him.
Nozomi has been my friend since Year 8. Although it was a challenging and very emotional year, we laughed and cried together. In Japan, the education system spans 12 years, with the first 9 years—6 years of elementary school and 3 years of junior high school—being compulsory. After completing compulsory education, students continue on to high school for the next 3 years. We attended different high schools and lost touch for a while, but we reconnected after high school.
We are almost opposites in character. Nozomi is very tall, lacks self-confidence, and works as a childcare worker because she loves kids. Thanks to Rob playing with Ema for nearly 4 hours, Nozomi and I chatted about what we are doing and what has happened this year. I had a lot to tell her as I have changed my job a few times since we last saw each other.
As both of us are educators, Nozomi and I discussed how demanding our jobs can be. She mentioned that the wages for childcare workers are only slightly higher than those of retail staff. Similar to Australia, Japan’s childcare sector is facing a severe labor shortage, with training colleges struggling to attract enough students and many workers leaving the industry after a short time.
It saddens me to hear that a passionate educator like Nozomi is considering a career change due to low pay and high demands. I understand that for those who aren’t in caring professions, it can be difficult to fully appreciate just how challenging the work is. I truly hope the working conditions improve soon, so that those who are passionate about their work can continue without facing mental and financial struggles.
( by Mami)
I also was happy that Mami has kept in touch with her friends here in Japan. However I was not expecting to be playing with a five year old girl and a doll’s house for …… wait for it ……FOUR HOURS!!! In the crowded eatery section of You Me Town!!! Ema (pronounced Emma) is a lovely little kid and she is not loud, is well mannered and best of all she thinks I’m funny. I wish she could remind Mami of that fact.
By the end of 4 hours, I was done and dusted and ready to go home. Mami had managed to stay out of my reach for an under the table foot in the shin, so I had to soldier on until they were done with their catch-up. Nozomi and Ema are planning to come and stay in Australia with us, some time early in 2026. Hopefully our own house will be finished by then or I could get Ema to fit it out.
It’s been a bit of a slow day for news but I hope we have written enough to keep your interest. Mami and I have just come back from a short walk to a small supermarket not far from home. We needed milk and apples but also bought some other items as well. We talked about our day and family as we walked and both felt the better for exercise and the chat. It’s 10.48pm, Mami is in the bath and I’m heading for bed. So good night (or should that be morning) to all readers and make the most of the last day of 2024 tomorrow.
