Judith Clancy

　　My life began in Kyoto many years ago, a real affair of the heart, one that continues to be as delightful and at times as frustrating as it was 42 years ago, but never dull.

My idea of adulthood was one in which people knowledgeably discussed world events, spoke another language, and associated with others who shared a curiosity about the world.

The Peace Corps seemed an excellent venue to settle my wanderlust while helping others, and in 1967, I went to rural South Korea as a paramedic. It proved an invaluable experience, complemented by the advice of Korean theologian who said, “If you only speak two languages and only know two countries, you can never truly be international. Living in three countries will give you a perspective that balances the mind and soul.” Wanting to live in Kyoto since childhood, I settled there in 1970 after leaving Korea.

My days are filled with teaching at Otani University in Kyoto, having previously worked as a secretary for 10 years at Kanebo, a large Osaka-based company, writing, interpreting and guiding around the city.

I bought and converted a 120-year-old weaving studio in the city’s weaving and dyeing district, along a slim alleyway with neighbors, all retired obi weavers.