When people move to a new place, whether it’s in the same town, state, country, or even a completely different part of the world, they likely conduct extensive research and planning before making the move. What’s the weather like? What are the restaurant and café options? Is there a good public transport system? Or, maybe some things about economics and businesses. One of the best ways to learn about a new place is probably to ask someone who lives or has lived there. Actually visiting the destination and spending some time would also give a good idea of what life will be like. Knowing about the new place is something everyone probably does before moving, and that’s exactly what I did. I knew and talked to people from the town. I even visited the town and spent 10 days. I visited various places, spoke with many people, and saw a lot of things. I became confident and felt ready to move, turning a new page in my book to begin a new chapter of my life. Yet, when I actually moved, I felt lonely, left out of the world, and unsure of what I could do to improve my situation. This is how I started my life in Springfield, just about 10 and a half years ago.

SSCA has always been a critical part of my life in Springfield, serving as a lifesaving community that not only helped me decide to stay in town but also taught me how to contribute to the community through cultural exchanges. Without the Annual Membership Celebration of 2015, which happened to be held just a week after I arrived in Springfield, I would have ditched my passion for academics and gone back to Japan. Without meeting people who are a part of the community and participating in their dedication to learning and spreading cultures from sister cities, I could not have realized how uniquely different yet full of colors the cultures of Japan, Mexico, and the United States are. Without actively participating in the cultural exchange programs to visit sister cities, I could not have gained insight into how cultural exchanges broaden one’s perspectives through diverse values and multicultural experiences. Without the experiences I gained through participation in SSCA events and programs, I would not be who I am today.

Taking a new step could be both exciting and worrisome, as people often don’t know what awaits them. It could bring unforeseen challenges one has never imagined facing, but what comes after should always be rewarding in their life. The 39-year relationship with Isesaki and the 22-year relationship with Tlaquepaque signify a long-lasting friendship, with more years of cultural exchanges and involvement of more people to come. As I am about to turn a new page in my book, I aim to uphold my commitment to this important cause, but also encourage more people to become cultural ambassadors, reaching out and influencing the community for greater causes.

Yudai Sanada is returning to Isesaki, Japan, after 10 years in the U.S., but will continue to participate with SSCA.