Arigato, sensei, is a phrase in Japanese that is commonly used to express gratitude towards a teacher or mentor. The word “arigato” is a simplified form of the phrase “arigato gozaimasu,” which means “thank you very much.” The term “sensei” refers to someone who is a teacher or an expert in a particular field.
In Japanese culture, there is a strong emphasis on respect and hierarchy, especially when it comes to the relationship between a student and a teacher. The term “sensei” is used to address someone who is seen as a knowledgeable and respected authority figure. It is a way of acknowledging their expertise and expressing gratitude for their guidance and teachings.
When saying “arigato, sensei,” the gratitude is directed specifically towards the teacher, recognizing their role in imparting knowledge and wisdom. It is a way of showing appreciation for the time and effort that the teacher has invested in the student's education and personal growth.
Personally, I have had the privilege of having a few senseis in my life who have made a significant impact on my development as a sommelier and brewer. Their guidance and mentorship have been invaluable in shaping my skills and deepening my understanding of the craft.
One sensei in particular stands out in my memory. He was a seasoned sommelier with years of experience and a wealth of knowledge in the field. I was fortunate enough to be his apprentice, and he took me under his wing, sharing his expertise and teaching me the intricacies of wine tasting and pairing.
Every day, after a long day of work, he would patiently guide me through blind tastings, challenging me to identify the grape varietals, regions, and even vintages of the wines we sampled. He taught me the importance of paying attention to the subtleties of aroma, flavor, and texture, and how they interact with different foods.
I remember one particular tasting session where he presented me with a complex Bordeaux wine. As I struggled to identify the nuances and characteristics of the wine, he encouraged me to trust my senses and analyze each aspect with precision. Through his guidance, I was able to unravel the layers of complexity and appreciate the wine on a deeper level.
Beyond technical knowledge, my sensei also instilled in me a deep respect for the history and culture surrounding wine and brewing. He would share anecdotes and stories about the winemakers and brewers we studied, bringing the subject matter to life and making it more relatable.
Through his teachings, I not only gained expertise in the sommelier and brewing arts, but I also developed a lifelong passion for the craft. The phrase “arigato, sensei” feels inadequate in expressing the depth of gratitude I have for the impact my sensei had on my professional and personal growth.
“arigato, sensei” is a way of expressing sincere gratitude towards a teacher or mentor in Japanese culture. It acknowledges the expertise and guidance provided by the sensei and reflects the deep respect and appreciation for their teachings. Personally, my experiences with senseis have been transformative, shaping my skills and passion for the sommelier and brewing arts.