"In Japan, you can wear whatever you want!"
Earlier this spring, my parents visited me in Japan. To be reductive, I'd describe my mother as the liberal, free-spirited type. On the contrary, my stepfather is conservative and traditional. Somehow, they mostly get along with each other, and so do my sister and I with them. We have learned to tune out things said that we don't agree with for the sake of harmony. It's the only way, isn't it?
On one warm spring day, we ventured to a popular Osaka flea market in Tennoji. Coming out of the subway, we followed the others who were obviously going to the same market. One person we saw ahead of us was dressed head to toe in 70s vintage garb. Bell-bottoms, a puffy hat, fitted leather vest, platform shoes. They looked like they should have arrived via the Mystery Machine.
While walking ahead of my parents, I heard my stepfather lean in to my mother and whisper. "Wow. In Japan, you can wear whatever you want. And no one cares!" Yes, this is mostly true. People in Japan are free to be completely absorbed in whatever niche subculture they choose to delve into (outside of working hours). What was funny to me about this was the sort of envy in my stepfather's voice. He wasn't being critical, but actually idealizing Japan for allowing this kind of self-expression. I'll admit, not something I'd thought I'd hear from him.
This forced me to reconsider my own judgment of him. Yes, he is typically conservative in his own demeanor. Yes, some of his views may be interpreted as close-minded or ignorant. But on the other hand, he can be quite accepting and open. People can surprise you once you drop your own preconceived notions.
Also, I now wonder how he'd really like to dress?