REUNION

June 17th

	Hours of tossing waves have churned more than just my stomach.  In the distance, I can see other ships scurrying their way through the rough waters.  No trip to paradise is without its crashing patches and this ferry ride is a testament to that. 

From the hours of gliding across the shifting, cold water, I came away with refined melodies.  Throughout the entire trip, I’ve done what I could to fulfill my end of the promise.  As you had requested, you wanted me to write a melody for each week of the trip.  

The long, sometimes arduous days on the bike zapped any creative energy I would have mustered. To be honest, there were times when I didn’t even want to touch the guitar.  It was just a hindrance, acting as an oddly shaped sail on the back of the bike.  While there were some low points, I did what I could to consistently create with my choice of a pallet.  

While sifting through some of these tonal beauties, I couldn’t help but gaze at the landscape of the Sea from my window. The rising, deep blue waters enable endless staring.  Each wave empowers their own conscious, splashing about in a random direction.  With each passing wave, getting lost in the current seems more plausible.  

As for the ferry, it was a decent overall ride to the islands. The currents were rather mild (despite my exaggerated description), but it was easy to lose time staring into the abyss of the Sea. Upon arriving at Naha’s port, I made a B line to the cargo area and awaited my reunion with the DZed.  

I know the protocols for handling anything here are up to par, but you can never trust the unpredictability of the sea.  Two workers wheeled out the DZed in what appears to be one, happy piece.  I spent several minutes inspecting every bearing of the bike.  From the wheels to the subframe, everything appeared to be intact. 

Before plotting the GPS, I opened up the final envelope that you had made for me and took a peek at my proposed itinerary.  

Ayden,

	You’ve finally arrived!  After nearly 12 weeks of traversing the country, you’ve finally made it to the islands of Okinawa.  I’m so proud of the progress that you’ve made and I can assure you, your journey will be punctuated appropriately.  

I’m sure the ferry ride over was a game of patience, something that’s a far cry from riding a motorcycle.  Fortunately, you’ve set foot in paradise here and you will not be disappointed with the views that we’ll get to share.  

Below will be the directions to my house. It should only take you an hour or so from the bay.  As for your final headband, I saved this nice shade of blue (Nōkon) for the end.  It reminded me of the deep, piercing Ocean waters you would have crossed to get here.  

 If the overnight ferry wasn’t enough to remind you, then this wristband should be the final reminder of how far you’ve traveled to be here this moment.  Every mile you’ve traveled. Every word you’ve written to me.  Soak it all in and remember what this journey was all about :). 

I can’t wait to finally see you!

-Setsuko

Itinerary

• Enjoy paradise with the family :) 

Short, simple, and sweet.  I couldn’t have asked for easier directions to wrap up this journey.  According to my GPS, I found a route with some backroads that cut the route down to about 45 minutes. 

While crossing the charcoal, sand ridden roads, I’ve come to realize that Okinawa is inherently different from the rest of the country. Yes, it’s its own chunk of land. The difference comes in its history and its outlook on life.  Seeing as I had little to do for nearly 24 hours on the ferry, I started doing some reading on the background of these islands, and how they differ from the rest of the country.  

I was fascinated by the Chinese influence on the region.  As a group of islands in the Sea, it was the mid point for all sailors between mainland Asia and Japan. For its convenient location, it became a popular port for international travel and commerce.  At one point, Okinawa was separated into 3 different regions (eventually unifying as the Ryukyu Kingdom).

This kingdom had a prosperous run for many centuries, as it had a strong trade relationship with the Ming Dynasty.  This prosperity lasted until the early 17th century, when a Japanese Shogunate seized the region as their own.  Since then, the islands have been considered a territory of the country, albeit, with a different flair.  

I was aware of Karate originating here, but from the little reading I was able to make, Okinawa has cultivated several different styles of arts and entertainment. I’m eager to hear the others arts that have originated here, from a local herself. 

Breezing up the local highway was effortless, as the traffic (at its worst) was sparse.  The suggested route took less than 40 minutes, with me parking right out your front door.  Before I had the chance to knock, I saw a beaming smile through the screen door.  Needless to say, I didn’t need to be reminded who was on the other side.

“Ayden! At long last, you’ve made it!” 

Our moment of embrace felt like an overdue gesture of kinship that we hadn’t experienced in some time.  It truly felt like a reward for a long, drawn out adventure. This trip was planned between us with only basic research, instincts, and luck at our side.  Seeing you in that moment was a culmination of everything I had been through and the winding miles of soil that I had to cross to get here. 

Within minutes of arriving, you had introduced me to your husband (Ryu) and young son (Koki).  I had seen pictures and videos of them over the years, but it was a delight to finally meet them in person.  Koki, in particular, was quick to become my best friend.  He invited me to a duel via a PvP video game. It was a popular fighting game that I had played long ago, but on a different console.  

The current console was foreign to me (no pun intended) but button smashing is a universal language.  I proceeded to kick Koki’s ass in about 5 straight games, which would have been 6 (if he allowed me to each lunch, uninterrupted). We eventually took a ride around town, with you doing your best tour guide impersonation.  I knew that you guys had moved to the islands a few years ago, but I didn’t expect such deep knowledge of the area from recent transplants. Okinawa feels like an amalgamation of several different Asian cultures, all immersed into this sub tropical paradise.  

There’s so much to take in here. I’m glad that we decided to dedicate the entire week (well, most of the week) to seeing the majestic beauty on this island.  Of course, the only hiccup in our initial plans is the Supermoto race.  I received my remaining info from Sensu Corporate. I need to fly to Osaka tomorrow morning, mainly to get everything situated and do any press obligations the team might have.  I’m sure they can’t wait to talk to a foreign, future lapper.  

After hours of exploring Naha, the sun finally bid adieu to the locals and gave way to dusk.  While we peered out at the view from the beach, I had a nudge of curiosity.  With this entire adventure nearly behind us, I couldn’t help but ask why you were so motivated to help with all of this.  Yes, you’ve been a family friend for a long time but why hassle with making 12 itineraries for me?  Surely, there has to be an ulterior motive.

Despite my persistent nudging, you weren’t budging on my inquiry.

“You have one large task left to complete and that’s all I want you to focus on.  You’re answer will come, in due time”.  

And that’s what you left me with. On this beach during a balmy June night, I’m left pondering your intentions for a few more days. That question will have to be tucked away, as tomorrow is the start of an important stretch.  Upon arriving in Okinawa, I’ll be inundated with everything related to the race for the following 48 hours. In an adventure full of twists and turns, this upcoming race will prove to be the “final boss” on this trip of a lifetime.  

At the very least, it’s nice to see your face and actually interact with you.  Let’s seize the most of this reunion and make my mother proud.

-Ayden