Two weeks ago my junior high 3rd years graduated (the school year in Japan ends in March and starts again in April). It's a happy occasion for the most part, but I was kind of sad. The sad part wasn't so much that I would probably never see most of them again (although that is sad), but that most of them will probably forget me shortly. This is kind of an egocentric concern, I admit, but the truth is that I really like some of these kids and I wish I could get to know them better. But these kids aren't going to drop everything and come running to me every time they see me. I've only been around for 6 months, I've only taught some of these kids maybe 2 or 3 times in class...
I read somewhere recently that we humans like to consider ourselves to be the stars of the show but the truth is that we are mere extras in relation to most people we interact with. And much as I would like to think I am a significant presence in some of these kids lives (because they are special to me), I have to accept the fact that I am only an extra, a brief walk-on presence. Having come to terms with this, I've decided that the most I can do is act my part as well as I can.
Still, I will miss them.
OK, enough emoting. Below are some pictures of graduation day at my three schools.
Kubo Jr. High had a cool arrangement where all the 1st and 2nd years lined up along the driveway and gave gifts to their "sempai" (elder/mentor) as they filed through.
Members of the Kudamatsu Jr. High Brass Band, before playing out the graduates.
The famous Mizuki two-time English speech contest champion.
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