There are many beautiful words in Japanese, but “sumimasen” is one of my favorites. From my first day in Japan, the word “sumimasen” made a deep impression on me.

I can’t forget the day I arrived in Japan. The moment I reached the airport, I was so excited and distracted by the surroundings that I accidentally stepped on the foot of the person in front of me. I was struggling to apologize in Japanese when, to my surprise, the other person said “sumimasen” to me. I was puzzled. Why were they apologizing when it was clearly my fault? Had I been in their place, I probably wouldn’t have apologized.

In Vietnam, we don’t think it’s necessary to apologize if we are not at fault. So I kept wondering why. At that time, I didn’t understand the meaning of the word. After living in Japan for a year and a half, I finally found the answer.

Japanese people say “sumimasen” even when it’s not their fault. I realized that the word “sumimasen” contains consideration and empathy for others.

One day, while going to Tenjin on a bus, which was crowded, an elderly woman accidentally stepped on my foot. Instinctively, I said “sumimasen” to her. At that moment, I finally understood why the person at the airport had said “sumimasen” to me. Being stepped on doesn’t necessarily mean you are entirely blameless. If my foot hadn’t been there, maybe it wouldn’t have been stepped on. Thinking from the other person’s perspective and having a forgiving attitude are important aspects that make our daily lives more enjoyable.

Now, I have become accustomed to life and culture in Japan, and I can speak Japanese. I often hear the word “sumimasen.” I’ve come to understand its various meanings and have learned to apologize sincerely like the Japanese.

I’ve realized that the Japanese have a forgiving and tolerant nature. The reason I love the word “sumimasen” is because it’s filled with kindness and consideration.

Now, I aspire not only to learn Japanese but also to embrace Japan’s excellent culture and the kindness of its people. When I return to Vietnam, I want to share this gentle spirit with the Vietnamese and serve as a bridge of friendship and exchange between Japan and Vietnam.