Seoul buses. They are bright green and kinda creaky. I spend three days a week commuting a 40 minute round trip. Something about them soothes me. They are the perfect reading spot. The drivers tend to be polite maniacs. I have more than once fallen into an unsuspecting stranger when the bus stopped suddenly, as it does at least 12 times on any given ride.
People singing to themselves as they walk along the street. As many of you might easily imagine, when I was a child I broke into song without warning. Often loudly. Typically in full character. Usually quite oblivious to anyone who might hear. That little girl giggles in recognition and fraternity with the spontaneous singers in this country.
Kimchi. It’s spicy fermented cabbage. The traditional Korean dish. I’m crazy about it, much to the delight of my Korean friends.
The two handed wave. There’s an implicit openness and enthusiasm that’s difficult to articulate. And totally wonderful.
“See you.” It’s the most common form of goodbye among English speaking Koreans. I’ve never known a native English speaker to use this phrase but it’s become a part of my personal vernacular. Because it’s delightful.
The grunt of assent. The word for “yes” among friends sounds like this: “uhng.” No need to open your mouth. I love it.
The coffee shop in my neighborhood. I have a crush on the middle aged man who owns and runs it. He roasts the beans in house and prepares each cup individually. Often when I’m drinking a cup, my skin tingles. I’m not exaggerating.
The unexpected and bizarre compliments my students pay me. The other day Cathy said she thought I should be a jazz dancer. When I asked her why she said “You are tall and thin.” I was speechless. People, I am in the land of beautiful doll-like creatures we’re all supposed to believe are merely human women. I am a giant here. Is this sweet child delusional or what? The strangest is when my 5 year olds say things like “Sarah’s body is beautiful” (Nora) and “You are sexy” (Lucy). I’m not making this up. It’s odd. It’s hilarious. It’s one of my favorite things.
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3 comments:
We hear "See you!" in Japan, as well. The affirmative grunt ("Uhn") is so ubiquitous here, I have adopted it as part of my own vocabulary.
So glad to hear you're still enjoying yourself. Are you coming back or extending your stay?
Miss you!
Adriana
Wow. Where I work no one tells me I have a beautiful body or that I am sexy. Maybe I am working the wrong job?
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