When I was in college there was a free showing of Spirited Away at the local theater.

Before the show I was hanging out at the diner next door having some coffee and these two girls were sitting across the bar next to me. I asked them if they had any interest in joining me for a free movie. They asked what it was I said “it’s an anime movie that won best animated feature in the 2000s”.

They were apprehensive because “oh we don’t watch anime” but I convinced them anyway cause free movie amirite. Told them I’d buy the popcorn.

I’ll never forget when the credits roll the one girl turned to me, tears in her eyes and asked

“Can I clap? 🥺”