"Bai-Bai, My Little Crazies"

Dear Japanese school,
you were an incredible experience
I wouldn't trade for the world.
One I will never forget.

There were days when I wanted to
twirl down the hallway, a band trumpeting behind me,
I was so happy.

There were days when I wanted to

curl into a ball and wring my heart of all its tears,

I was so frustrated.

But this experience wouldn't have been
half as amazing
if I hadn't tasted both sides of the bowl.

I finally saw teachers for
who they really are:
people.

I learned so much
watching their hardships,
and sharing my own with them.

And the children became

my baby brothers and sisters.

So, to you, 

little students,

I want to thank you...

...for accepting me as your teacher,

and as your friend,

for making me feel pretty
for having lily-white skin, corn-yellow hair, and blue eyes,

for letting me learn
right alongside you.
You wound up teaching me, this year.

{Arts via IKJHS students}

{Cho & Aiata drawing via me, with colors by Karin-chan}

{Cho & Aiata © Me}