If Only the Workplace Had This Atmosphere

The other day, I attended a drinking party for the first time in several years.

I haven't written much about it in this note, but about six months ago, I joined an amateur orchestra at the invitation of a friend from my student days and started playing music again.

The other people there, aside from my friend, know nothing about my personal circumstances—such as the fact that I quit my job due to adjustment disorder. Because of that, I am able to spend precious time there purely enjoying my hobby.

This time, it was a post-concert party for our performance. Honestly, I didn't intend to attend the party at first.

But a small part of me was interested, so I told myself, "This is practice," and gathered the courage to participate.

It was full of people I had never really spoken to. There were about 40 people of all different ages and genders, all chatting away.

The seat I ended up in happened to be in an area with many men in their 60s and 70s.

For a moment, I thought, "Oh no."
I was the youngest among them, and a woman at that.

"Does this mean I'm expected to serve the food... I don't want to do that," I thought.

But immediately after, I realized that if I didn't want to, I didn't have to. So I decided not to push myself.

As it turned out, I was the only one worrying about such things; everyone was just helping themselves to whatever they wanted.

When the salad arrived, I felt nervous, but one man said, "What should we do? Everyone has different preferences, so it's probably better not to serve it for others, right?" I immediately replied, "Yes! Let's just do it ourselves!" and he laughed.

I noticed when other people's drinks were getting low, but I intentionally did nothing. And that was perfectly fine. Those who wanted more just ordered for themselves.

In similar gatherings in the past, I would be so preoccupied with serving food, nodding along, asking questions, and answering questions that my head would spin and I would be exhausted.

But that day, I was able to listen to the people around me naturally, and unexpectedly, I found it interesting. I didn't have to force myself to look interested.

I was worried someone might ask about my work, but not a single person asked me anything personal.

Everyone was just talking about the music they liked or funny things that had happened recently, and we were all just laughing.

The two hours flew by.

I decided to leave a little before the party ended, so the walk home was easy and relaxed.

And I thought.

If only the workplace had this kind of atmosphere.

Of course, hobbies and work are different.
But in terms of mindset, I found myself wishing for this kind of atmosphere.

Not being overly concerned with others,

not talking about personal matters more than necessary,

and working together when cooperation is needed.

And not ranking people as human beings.

Since it is work, it is inevitable that one will be evaluated on their work. I understand that.

But that evaluation should only be for the purpose of advancing the work better; there is no need to deny someone's humanity.

Is it impossible for us to cooperate with each other and spend time comfortably together even in the workplace?

On my way home from the party, I suddenly thought about that.

I want to sincerely thank the people who gave me such a calm and gentle time at the party I gathered the courage to attend that day.