farewell

How ironic was the title of my last entry. A week ago, my dear neighbor from the salon next door, Akiro san, passed away after years of battle with cancer. His farewell party was on Saturday night, which I had an honor of serving some food. It was quite a turn-out as expected. Many of his loyal customers also became mine, since he often sent them my way, and I also befriended his employees who were also my neighbors. Seeing all the people who took over the sidewalk Saturday night, I realized the depth of his six-degrees. He was mostly a quiet neighbor, not extremely chatty, but still sweet and generous. He was also a character, everyone will tell you. For many years, he would go with his dog to dine out, which I was invited to join them one night. I also got many hair-cuts from him, but he always wanted make me look like a 'lady' which I didn't feel appropriate for me. I met so many people through him, and some people I've met already knew him anyway. But the most painful memory associated with this event was the fact that I've lost a dear friend in that very space next door years before Akiro moved in. It was in the spring of 2001, before 9-11, before SOY. I never told Akiro, but he left a part of the space raw, a large mirror near the back wall, that he used while cutting hair to see the side view. I always loved to see that still there while getting my hair-cut. So this weekend was so overwhelming with memories of Akiro and Bartholomew. I know that Bartholomew's spirit tried to protect Akiro, since he was a cool good neighbor, but Akiro couldn't beat the disease. He loved my Tofu Steak and Cod with ginger sauce. Sometimes he would ask for ramen with a croquette on top, which is a funny thing in Japanese standard. Farewell, and rest in peace my friend Akiro. His six-degrees will continue for many years to come.