Letting Go
As far as first experiences go, it is pretty exciting to be on a ferry bound for Osaka. The ferry's name is Sunflower but for some reason, the flower on its side is painted orange and red. In the lobby, on the reception desk, you find a basket filled with colorful rolls of confetti tape. You ask, "What do I do with with these?" "Take one and go to the deck." You're not really sure what to do but you pick one and go anyway. The deck is a cold, dark and windy place. The neon sign in front of you reads "Welcome to Beppu" even though you're leaving Beppu. Talk about irony. From your vantage point on the deck, you see the cars and the city lights. You think you can also make out the dark shapes of mountains in the distance. Up above, the stars and the moon hang onto the night sky. It was a perfect night. Everything is in its right place. Except you, maybe. You make your way to the railings where everyone seems to be gatheri