I have a friend I've known for nearly thirty five years. She is twelve years older than me, but we have always managed being good friends. I first met her in our painting class. Since then, even though I had to move from place to place due to my husband's job, we stayed in touch. Ten years ago, my husband was promoted to transferred to Osaka, so I moved back in the Kansai area for the first time in twenty five years. Since then, she and I've started taking same painting lessons again.

Recently, she has lost some weight and looks much older than her actual age. I started worrying about her, but I didn't ask what's going on with her. In Japanese society, asking private questions is considered rude, and she's much older than me, so I was afraid of stepping into her privacy. I just kept showing respect.

Today, on the way home from our regular painting lesson, all of a sudden, she held my hand on the train and said, "Yumi, I really appreciate our friendship. Thank you so much for being my friend. " When I looked at her, her eyes seemed wet. She also mentioned that she wouldn't take any lessons from now on. When hearing that, I was upset and didn't know how I should respond her. I just said, "Same here. Thank you for being my friend. You'll always be my friend. Even if you quit painting, we'll definitely spend time together. ", and I smiled at her, but she didn't smile me back. She seemed to be serious.

I know she's been suffering from diabetes and sometimes complains about her eye sight. For painters, loosing their eye sights is devastating. I think something going on with her, but I don't believe that's the reason she quit painting. To respect her, I probably won't ask her the reason, instead, I'd rather wait until she's ready to share what's happening with me.

(4997)