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As a storyteller, I must share. While in Los Angeles, I experienced a moment that reaffirmed the profound impact of simple human connections. This encounter embodied the Japanese concept of ichi-go ichi-e (一期一会), which translates to “one time, one meeting.” Rooted in Zen Buddhism and the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, ichi-go ichi-e reminds us to cherish each interaction as a unique, unrepeatable moment—a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Let me share my ichi-go ichi-e encounter.

As I stepped out of my hotel room, I encountered an elderly couple exiting theirs. We exchanged smiles, and I playfully remarked, “So you two were the rowdy ones last night,” adding a wink. They chuckled and replied, “Busted.” Our laughter accompanied us as we walked toward the elevator. In that brief moment, we could have easily continued on our separate paths, exchanging only polite smiles. However, we chose to engage in conversation, embracing the Japanese concept of ichi-go ichi-e, which was now activated!

Noticing their luggage, I inquired about their destination. They mentioned heading to the airport with family, returning to the Bay Area after attending their granddaughter’s graduation. I shared that I was meeting my screenwriter to discuss my memoir, Lost and Found: Seeking the Past and Finding Myself. Ellie, the woman, expressed admiration and curiosity about the book and wanted to know more.

When they learned I was visiting from Canada, Ellie paused and said, “I’m sorry for how we’ve treated your country. You don’t deserve this. I hope Canadians don’t hate us.” I reassured them, “Canadians don’t harbor hatred toward Americans. While we might disagree with certain policies, we value our neighbors to the south.” Ellie dabbed her eyes with a tissue, visibly moved by our exchange.

As their family gathered, I returned to my room to retrieve a copy of my book—a gesture I reserve for meaningful encounters. Presenting it to them, we spent about 15 minutes near the elevator, during which they expressed deep appreciation for Canada and its people. I acknowledged that while Canadians are generally kind and polite, Americans, too, possess warmth and generosity.

In the lobby, we continued our conversation, and they met Anne, my screenwriter. As they prepared to depart, we embraced. Ellie and Marty expressed gratitude for our meeting. I told Ellie, “The world needs more souls like you and Marty,” bringing tears to their eyes. Ellie replied, “I guess we should have expected to meet an angel in Los Angeles, the city of angels.”, which brought a humble smile and with that, we parted ways.

This encounter reminded me that spontaneous, heartfelt interactions can bridge divides and foster understanding. While I may not have altered their lives, we shared a genuine connection—a rarity in today’s world. I believe they’ll return to the Bay Area and recount their experience with the kind-hearted Canadian they met. Such moments of appreciation and connection, though uncommon, are invaluable and as ichi-go ichi-e reminds us, never to be repeated so best embrace the moment.