Man, what a day! I’m tellin’ ya, being a sign language interpreter in Shimotsuke is like riding a rollercoaster blindfolded. So, I wake up, right? Sun’s shining, birds chirping, and I’m like, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I had to rush to the Shimotsuke City Hall on Kōen-dōri. Traffic was a mess! I mean, come on, it’s a Tuesday, not a freakin’ parade day! I’m stuck behind this old dude in a tiny car, going 20 km/h. Like, bro, we’re not in a slow-motion movie! I’m late for my first appointment.
Finally, I get there, and I’m sweating like a pig. I dash inside, and the receptionist gives me that look. You know the one. “You’re late.” Ugh, I hate that look. Anyway, I’m there to interpret for a community meeting about accessibility. Super important stuff, right? But the vibe in the room? Awkward. Like, you could cut the tension with a knife.
So, I’m signing away, trying to keep up with the rapid-fire Japanese. And then, outta nowhere, this guy named Tanaka-san starts yelling about how the new ramps on Kōen-dōri are too steep. I mean, he’s got a point, but dude, chill! He’s waving his arms like he’s trying to take off. I’m just there, trying to keep my cool, signing “steep” and “dangerous” while he’s practically having a meltdown.
After that, I needed a breather. I hit up this little café on Shimozato Street. Best matcha latte ever! Seriously, if you’re in Shimotsuke, you gotta try it. I’m sippin’ my drink, and this cute little cat strolls by. I’m like, “Aww, look at you!” But then it just plops down right in front of me. I’m thinking, “Dude, I’m trying to enjoy my latte here!”
Then, I get a call. It’s my next client, and they’re at the Shimotsuke Cultural Center. I’m like, “Great, more interpreting!” So, I rush over, and guess what? It’s a dance workshop. I’m not a dancer, but I’m signing like I’m in a dance-off. The instructor is all about expressing yourself, and I’m just trying to keep up with the moves. I’m flailing my arms, and the participants are cracking up. I’m like, “Yeah, I meant to do that!”
But then, this one lady, she’s super serious. She’s got this intense look, and she’s like, “I want to express my feelings about my disability.” And I’m like, “Okay, let’s do this.” She starts talking about her struggles, and I’m feeling all the feels. It’s heavy, man. I’m signing my heart out, and I can see everyone’s getting emotional. It’s powerful stuff.
After the workshop, I’m on a high. I’m walking down the streets of Shimotsuke, feeling all inspired. But then, BAM! I trip over a crack in the sidewalk. Seriously? I’m like, “Come on, Shimotsuke! Fix your sidewalks!” I’m laughing at myself, but also kinda mad.
I finally make it to the Shimotsuke Shrine. It’s peaceful there, and I just sit for a bit. I’m thinking about the day, the people I met, the stories I heard. It’s wild how much emotion can be packed into one day. I’m grateful, but also exhausted.
As the sun sets, I’m heading home, and I can’t help but smile. Shimotsuke, you crazy city, you’ve got my heart. Even with the traffic, the steep ramps, and the tripping, I wouldn’t trade this job for anything. It’s a wild ride, but it’s MY wild ride. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!