After Johnathan graciously agreed to take on another conversation partner, I figured I could at least help him kill two birds with one stone. Ryan, his original conversation partner and I scheduled to meet John last Friday afternoon at 2:45 outside of Chick Fil A. As I frantically ran across campus that afternoon I arrived to our meeting a few minutes late. Ryan and I sat there talking, waiting for Johnathan. Ryan quickly informed me that John was notorious for being late. I'm highly understanding of people being late because as a Bowman, I unfortunately received the "being late to everything gene," not by choice, but because I as well as my family members seriously struggle to be on time, yet alone early. However, John has officially taken "being late" to a whole new level.
I texted John as I was walking over to Chick Fil A from the library, reminding him of our meeting time. Technology is both a blessing and a curse because in this case Johnathan had his read returns on so I could tell he had read the text and wasn't responding. Ryan and I continued on with our conversation of how fast the semester was flying by and comedic topics we had discussed with John. As the clock struck 3:15 I decided to give him a call. He answered and was uncertain as to who was calling. "Ohhh this is Kate" he said. I questioned him as to whether or not he was coming since he told me he was already there. I chuckled and said we were sitting outside as he said he would be there in 30 seconds. Jokingly, I told Ryan I was going to start counting.
At last, John finally arrived! Little did I know, when I called John earlier he was on his way to Plano for a dentist appointment. I felt so bad because we could have easily rescheduled our meeting. Ryan and I talked about our plans for the weekend with John as he listed all the exciting events on his weekend agenda. Of them they included going to a new outlet mall with his friends and "lots of partying." I laughed because I began to notice a trend in his behavior. It seems as though shopping, spending time with his friends, and partying are his top priorities. Feeling slightly jealous of his substantial amount of free time, my weekend was going to involve lots of studying and preparation for the chaotic week ahead. We reminisced Halloween, describing our favorite Halloween costumes, hunted houses, and traditions. What I found interesting is that he had never been trick or treating. Although we are too old to do that now, I vividly remember trick or treating as a kid which encompassed most of my memories from Halloween. He noted that trick or treating was strictly an American thing as I nodded in awe.
What I enjoy most about meeting with John is that I always learn something new. Whether it be about his culture or just differences in our daily activities it helps me gain a better perspective of others. I cannot wait for my final meeting with John tomorrow afternoon, as I'm sure he will come with some humorous stories from last weekends social activities.
Katelyn, your comment about Johnathan being late made me laugh. I too, unfortunately, have the same late gene that you mentioned above and can empathize with trying to be on time. Johnathan sounds like an interesting conversation partner to have and sounds like he likes to have a lot of fun. It surprises me that Johnathan views Halloween as strictly an American thing, seeing as it was started in another country. I could see how switching conversation partners mid-semester could be difficult, but it just gives you that much more exposure to different cultures. I am glad you have been able to find humor in Johnathan's stories, and I'm sure there is more to come!
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