Politeness still counts

Politeness still counts

On June 22, 2000, I went to the Japanese Embassy for
information on a master's program for my niece, who was doing an
assignment that day. At the embassy, I went to the department of
education. There was a young Indonesian woman there, whom I
eventually found out I had to see first. This woman was
surrounded by some Indonesian high school students who were there
for information on a scholarship program.

As I thought that all I needed was information, I passed by
her table and went straight to a Japanese lady who was in the
same room. The lady was talking to an old man who had arrived at
the same time as the high school students and me.

While I was waiting for my turn, I heard the Indonesian woman
call me. She then yelled at me, saying I had to go to her first.
I apologized and went to her table. I began to tell her about the
purpose of my visit, but before I could make myself clear, she
had made up her mind about my niece. Trying to control my
emotions, I made myself clear. We then shook hands. I thanked her
for the information she had given me, but on the other hand felt
sorry about this experience which happened at an institution that
represents a country of polite people.

Hopefully, there will be good cooperation in the future
between all the staff of the Japanese Embassy.

HAPHZAH ARIYANIE

Jakarta