Cherishing Relationships - Jan. 11, 2024.

I had a heartwarming episode yesterday that I'd like to share. Last week, a friend who had worked with me at my part-time job visited my workplace and gave Unagi Pai to our colleagues. Unfortunately, I wasn't there when he visited, so I missed the chance to talk to him in person. However, the day before yesterday, I received his Unagi Pai and sent him a message. Yesterday, while working my part-time job again, a colleague asked me, “Did you receive Unagi Pai?” She added, “○○-kun (my friend's name) came last weekend and gave them out. He asked, ‘Is Toki (that’s me) here now? Oh, that's unlucky, I wanted to talk with him.’ So, I set aside a Unagi Pai for you.”
How kind and thoughtful she was! I was extremely happy and grateful to witness her kindness and consideration. This experience taught me the value of relationships.

During my part-time job, I sometimes encounter people who neglect relationships. For example, some customers don’t respond when we ask if they need a shopping bag at the cashier. Others have an overbearing attitude toward us. As a staff member, I understand my role in contributing to the customers’ comfortable shopping experience. However, I can't comprehend why some don't treat us as equals.

It's often said that all problems stem from interpersonal relationship issues, leading us to view relationships as troublesome. Despite this, I recognize the value of relationships that bring warmth to our lives, and I want to treasure them.