The sweetest Ayu-related thing someone has done for you?

[Zeke.]

I have received Ayu items as presents from my mom. She used an Ayu photo on a birthday cake of mine one of the first years we started a tradition of going to a nearby Japanese restaurant. But, what happened to me recently is something that truly took my by surprise and will forever remain one of the most appreciated moments in my life.

I was living in New York pursuing music production and DJ classes and met someone. We started spending nights together and texting a lot, really formed a deep personal connection. Of course in our talks it came out that I had visited Japan, and when asked what my motivation was I told my story of wanting to see Ayu in concert. I didn't want to pull up Ayu songs, or force her songs on this friend of mine, but when asked questions about her I would answer, etc. Every now and then conversation would give way to speaking about her again.

I moved to Minneapolis to continue university courses after a 4 1/2 year break. During spring break, this special person of mine flew me out to stay at their place in NYC. We listen to music as we lay on the couch and be affectionate, lol. He suggested I turn on Ayu but I told him it wasn't appropriate for the mood (also that's a lot of pressure to try and showcase what I think are her best songs). A day or so later, we had returned from dinner and I was in the bathroom when I heard music start. From the distance the melody already sounded familiar and I thought it was Ayu-like but shook it off. The more I paid attention I realized it was Ayu - and some of her really early works. I walk out and into the living room where he is casually lying on the couch. I ask "what is this?" He says "I don't know, it just came up". I walk over to the stereo, thinking he had plugged my iPod in, but in fact he was playing music from his iPad. Upon looking at the iPad, I see he had created a playlist of his own, hand selected songs he chose himself after seeking out her music out of his own interest and accord. The songs were:

For My Dear...
LOVE ~Destiny~
Far away
SEASONS
Moments
fairyland
Who... (10th Anniversary Edition)

He said in his spare time he looked her up on iTunes and went through the songs (I'm assuming A COMPLETE) and bought a few that he liked, thinking that he would play them when the time was right. This small gesture was something that truly resonated within my heart. For once I didn't have to feel embarrassed when presenting her to a "jpop virgin" (lol); I didn't have to feel like I was imposing or worry what they were thinking, if they liked it or if they were annoyed and being nice - this person went on their own free will to seek out something they could clearly see I was passionate about. I don't think anything can ever come close to this unique moment for me. It was the best "gift" I had ever received from someone and made me feel truly happy that someone cared that much. I find myself recalling that scenario often and the unique feelings it gave to me. Such a simple act but it was an act in which I have felt the most loved.

I just really wanted to share this story with people who might understand or appreciate the sentiment in this. Do you have any stories about your impact Ayu has had on others, or Ayu experiences you've shared with others?