Gai-jin

Before we begin, we must know the definition of what gai-jin means.

Gai-jin: FOREIGNER.

It is a Japanese word that means foreigner, outsider.

SCENARIO:

I found myself alone and wondering why I was that way at the moment. Around me, were hundreds of people and all were interacting and speaking with one another.

Myself?

Quiet and silent.

It was an interesting position to be in for I wished to talk with everyone around me but my body and mouth was frozen.

The only word going through my mind: gai-jin.

Yes I will admit, I do not know Japanese language and I definitely cannot speak it (as much as I want to). Currently, I am reading a book, GAI-JIN by James Clavell, that has taught me just a few words (and yes, I checked that these words were true and not made up for the book).

I felt like a foreigner, an outsider with these many people. Each person seemingly unique, whether this is their true personality or just a face each puts on in hopes of creating a perceived persona.

Two hours went by and I mananged to talk with but three people. Absolutely pathetic.

Come to find out three weeks later, there were people looking to speak to me about a trip that I recently had embarked on.

FICTIONAL RECONSTRUCTION:

I walked into the room, more like a ballroom...aka HUGE...and realized that I was surrounded by hundreds of prospects of intelligence and networking. Each person a goldmine for furthering my career and enriching my relationships.

With this knowledge, my intention was to speak and interact with as many people as possible while earning and maintaining a newfound relationship with those that I will speak with.

I met recruiters for possible career opportunities and even some business executives and political strategists.

It was a wonderful two hours and found myself happy and satisfied with kicking open doors all throughout that event.

Never did I feel like a gai-jin.

ANALYSIS:

I am not going to let this happen again. The opportunities and networking that could have come about if I had spoken and presented myself visibly to the mass of people are too huge.

This is a rare occurence and I vow to not let this happen again.