Day 28 - Reconnecting with a friend in Wakayama

Back in 1989, 3 months or so into my mission, I got to know Chikako in Kurume. I am embarrassed to admit that I don't remember all the details of those months anymore (I think partly because I couldn't speak much Japanese yet so I was lost in translation most of the time), but I helped to teach her and she was baptized. Then I transferred to another town and lost contact pretty quickly -- I really wish we had had the internet back then... it makes it a lot easier not to lose contact.

Soon after we arrived in Japan with the school trip, a missionary roommate from back then posted a picture with Chikako and me and some other Kurume members and missionaries. I replied and Chikako replied, and we reconnected.


She was available today as it is a national holiday (Umi no Hi - "Marine or Ocean Day") so we took a train south to Wakayama (near where she lives now) this morning and met Chikako and her husband at the train station. We ate a tasty lunch and caught up a bit and then we walked around Wakayama Castle and got some good views of the town. It was so nice to see that she is well and happy. She has a family of three growing boys and a nice life, and she remains the same bright and wonderful person that I remember from 28 years ago.


I am definitely going to have to reread my missionary journal when I get home, because I have forgotten too much.

また出会えるのは本当に素晴らしかった。


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