Was Anyone Gonna Tell Me???

When I woke up yesterday, I thought to myself, "Hey, you need to make sure your application for the position you want was received." So, I sent our Prefectural Advisor an email to see they had gotten it. Thank God I did. She sent me a text today saying that they didn't have it. I also thank God that it isn't due until next Friday. She said that I could just bring it to Monday's meeting in the city. Phew! I'm also glad that I make and keep copies of EVERYTHING!!! The thing that is bugging me is that my former supervisor asked me for the application before I went to the states (early March) because he wanted to make sure that it was submitted. So much for that! I'm going to count it as an oversight on his part...perhaps he was busy wrapping up his own business in preparation to leave...whatever the reason, it's a lesson learned...moving on. Last night, 3 of us went to a get together held by one of our Japanese friend's friends. Our friend's friend teaches an English conversation class of mostly older students (seniors...no I'm not being funny). At the dinner we all discussed various topics around the table. My friend was telling the people at our end about me and mentioned that I am a good singer...she's never even heard me sing!!! Then she was like, "Gospel." I looked at her like, "WHAT!?" And thought to myself that I hope that has nothing to do with my being Black...sigh. She explained that the Japanese perception is that Blacks sing very well and have powerful voices. So, I said that Whites do too. Then she said, "But it's different. Why? Is there some historical reason or something?" I was so proud of my "off the cuff" response. As simply as I could, I explained that Black gospel incorporates African rhythms and traditions and White gospel is more eurocentric in orgin. Then she said, "I think White gospel tries to borrow from Black gospel, but it's different. Black gospel has more feeling." I suppose that was a nice way of saying it's not as good. HA!