Originally written in Chinese, translated by OpenAI.
I have been using this app intermittently for seven years, and I never thought I could actually fulfill my dream through it!
I am an introverted person, and in real life, I am usually too scared to actively approach strangers. This app has allowed me to feel like I am swimming in another world, a place where I can express my feelings and share my thoughts.
I have traveled abroad several times since I was a child. One day when I was older, I suddenly dreamed that it would be really interesting if I could chat with locals, make friends, or even hang out with them when I travel abroad! Unfortunately, due to my personality, I still couldn’t muster the courage to talk to strangers, so I gave up on the idea.
Until this year, I had already planned to travel to Osaka, Japan, in the late part of the month. Half a year ago, I used my VIP status to send out quite a few letters to local pen pals. Fortunately, I received a reply from ひめの. Although the frequency of communication was only about one letter every three or four weeks, I still continued to care about the other person’s recent situation during this time. Until I confirmed I was flying to Osaka at the end of September, I asked about her availability, and we set up the meeting.
And just like that, my “wildly fanciful” dream came true! We spent two of my travel days together. With her company, I experienced a different side of Japan and had deeper interactions with a local person. Not only did I fulfill my dream, but we also felt very comfortable spending time together, and we even agreed to travel to other regions in Japan together next year. She also said that when she comes to Taiwan, she hopes I can recommend some sights and restaurants.
Thank you, Slowly, for bringing me this wonderful connection and for helping me make my first Japanese friend.
