Here I am breaking the rules.
Following the rules in Japan is something you definitely have to do. Rules of culture of what to do and not do are quickly learned if you don't want to be labeled the clueless foreigner. You desperately try to "read the air," a well known express in Japan that means figuring out what do to by watching others around you. Sometimes it is spoken and clear, and sometimes you are just guessing and hoping it is the right thing. You definitely don't want to stick out and be different, the biggest taboo in Japan.
Well, it wasn't me today. This morning you will see me sitting on table, waiting for my towels and sheets to try at the Laundromat. Very comfortably, mind you. And swinging my legs in a carefree fashion. But don't worry, no one was there and no one saw me. Except the security cameras might have caught me. But I waved friendlily to them and hoped they would understand, as I will be leaving on the plane for the U.S. in a few hours.
Sitting on the table is just one of those "no no"s in Japan. I was shocked the other day when I saw an American tv show with somebody sitting on the table happily and no one seemed to care. Oh my goodness, I thought, what are they doing? Well, you can do that in America....and obviously on American tv shows. Well, soon I will have to acclimate and adjust to the brand new culture of America, which will feel quite different than Japan. So while I am waiting, I might as well start practicing. Just don't tell anyone.
