Domo Kun

Early risers, we stumble into the kitchen.

Catching each other’s gaze, we smile.

Your eyes soft.

Your body relaxed.

You say “How are you?”

Your warmth caught me by surprise.

A little shy I replied “Your accent is different from your brother’s.”

We laughed.

Our first encounter.

When my mind clears, more moments return.

I remember dinner with doctors.

My initial hesitance eased by your presence.

A reminder that status is not the only measure.

Lowering my guard, my nerves lightened.

I remember London outings with your family.

Sharing your aunt’s passion for students’ education, we bonded.

A rarity.

Perhaps that’s the Irish way.

I remember your speech at your brother’s wedding.

Your accent,

Your clean-shaven look,

Your grin in the crowd.

I no longer feel like an outsider.

I remember visiting Cambridge.

Your exuberant smile as we approached La Mimosa.

Our inkling for the outdoors, family restaurants and simple menus.

Sharing similar views of the corporate world, we understood.

A genuine surprise.