I recently had the pleasure of attending a graduation ceremony of Ashoro High School. Even though I’ve been teaching English for a few years here, this was actually a first for me. I found it very interesting to see what similarities and what differences there are between Japan and Canada’s grad ceremonies.
As with most Japanese ceremonies, the procedure was methodical, rigorous, and somewhat solemn. There was an air of seriousness - almost smothering - but for the Japanese this was par for the course. The speeches were delivered carefully and dryly, with little outward displays of emotion. I noticed the lack of emotion extended to nearly everyone, audience members included. It was stunning.
There was so much decorum and procedure it was baffling. And bowing. Every other second, someone was bowing. Even just as an audience member, I had to bow such an absurd amount of times I felt a six-pack coming in on my abdomen. Though I poke fun, it is impressive how orderly they are with their customs.
Everything is meticulously considered, down to the finest details, like which hand reaches out first to grab your diploma, how deep the bow is and for how long, and the speed at which to walk. I expected some of the more rambunctious students to make some sort of display or triumphant gesture to the audience after receiving their diploma, but they were all stoic. Their gaze stayed fixed on the ground in front of them as they exited from the stage.
Contrast all this with a Canadian high school graduation, and it’s like night and day. While our graduation ceremonies do follow a strict procedure and are professional, there is more room for fanfare and jovial behaviour. Speeches from both faculty members and students alike often have jokes, or tears, or cheers. It’s a lively affair, with the occasional hoot or holler from an audience member, yet still remaining respectful and orderly. Well… orderly for Canadian standards.
I think these differences reflect our cultures at large. I’ve always been fascinated with the Japanese persona: very controlled and deliberate in how they present themselves, paralyzingly cautious of how they may be perceived, or heaven forbid they make a mistake in front of their peers. While Canadians generally wear their heart on their sleeves, there is a sense of mystery and intrigue when interacting with the Japanese. I often wonder what they are really thinking or feeling, and it’s always satisfying to eventually have a Japanese person feel comfortable enough to express themselves freely.
Both personas have their merits. I think Canadians could benefit from a bit more of the Japanese professionalism, and I think the Japanese could benefit from a bit more emotional freedom. But at the same time, these differences make our countries and the countrymen within them special in their own unique ways.
In any case, it was an excellent ceremony and I was overjoyed to see the students go on to the next chapter of their lives. I know they will do great things. But I am going to miss them!
Wetaskiwin and Ashoro, Japan have been official twin cities since 1990 when the Wetaskiwin Ashoro Friendship Affiliation Agreement was signed.
