Graduation
Yesterday our third grade (the equivalent of senior) students graduated. The ceremony was predictably very long, filled with formality and speeches and tears.
For me it was a particularly poignant time because I had to say goodbye to two of my dearest students, we'll call them A-san and A-san. They were scared and small first graders in the English Club when I first came to my school, also scared and small. I feel closest to them because we all grew together and we're all leaving.
Of course, I really doubt they feel so strongly about the whole thing seeing as to them I'm only a teacher, but seeing them go has made me reflect a great deal on my time here.
I hope I see them again.
Comments
You're leaving Japan? Oh no. I'm sad because I will no longer have a window into Gyoda.
Are you going home?
Posted by: Maktaaq | March 9, 2007 3:33 PM
I'm hoping not to leave Japan itself, but I definitely will be leaving Gyoda. You know, 3-year JET contract ending and all.
I have an open-door policy, so anyone who wants a contact in Japan...!
Posted by: Justin | March 9, 2007 3:36 PM
Very touching & well said, I trust that they will remember you as will the other sensei & students.
Posted by: dad | March 9, 2007 8:32 PM