Rebecca Long
(1993-94)
Congratulations to LIOJ on your 35th anniversary! I feel that I was extremely lucky to have taught in the Business Communication Program (BCP) in 1993/1994. It is amazing that I can still name the BCP teachers and staff from that time: Abet, Carolyn, Colin, Don, Ken, Jim, Laurie, Louise, Lynn, Steve, Wang, Kazumi, Kaoru, and Miyuki.
After Japan, I taught in Mexico, Taiwan and Kuwait. Then, in July 1999, I moved to the scenic Napa Valley where I am a portfolio manager for a social-responsible money-management firm. Now I sit in front of a computer all-day which really makes me miss being in front of students! In my free time, I'm a peace activist standing in solidarity with the world in opposition to needless war. To comfort my soul, I enjoy gardening, taking long walks and playing with my 7-pound Maltese named Farley (but I call him My Little CEO).
When I think about LIOJ, I remember the rich and rewarding interactions with students and colleagues, especially sitting in the LIOJ lounge or a local karaoke bar. I sure miss having friends pour my beer! When I think of my colleagues, I remember Abet's peels of laughter, Carolyn's never-ending great ideas, Don's hair-raising ghost stories, Wang's yummy gyoza parties, Ken's sweet smile, Lousie's Portuguese' tuna and chickpea salad, Laurie's perfect solution to all problems, Jim's tall tales of flying, Steve's team spirit, Colin's expertise on any subject, and Lynn's Japanese/Mexican/Singaporean dinner parties!
I loved teaching in the LIOJ Summer workshop of 1993 and will never forget my last class on the final day. The students discussed the meaning of Eric Clapton's song, "Tears in Heaven," which led to a heartfelt discussion on the value of life and relationships. What I learned from those students is that on the outside we may all look different from each other but on the inside we all have the same need to be loved and understood. Thank you LIOJ!
May 2003
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