July 2024

Wait for the Answer

Something happenedYou don’t understand whatOr why it happenedAll you know is thatYou’re bleeding Now what?Filled with questionsWander about the streetFuming why nobody answers?Or panic over the catastrophe? But waitThe answer is on the wayRunning to you like a shooting starDon’t assume anything yetWait for the answer to arrive

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Fireworks from the Hilltop

I’m about twelve in this memory. It’s August 5th, the day when the annual firework festival takes place in our town. In the evening, my mother and I drive to the city centre, and after parking the car, we walk over to the view spot where we can sit on the grass and eat picnic

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Summer Hat

Several years ago, I was visiting home in Japan when my mother suggested we should buy a new summer hat for me. The one I had worn for many years had gone missing just before my trip. “A good hat is important to protect your head and eyes from the sun!” With such enthusiasm, we

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Unapologetically Alive

When was the last timeYou threw something with your full forceYou ran at your top speedYou laughed like crazy until your stomach hurt When was the last timeYou tackled your friend with all your forceYou screamed at your top voiceYou cried until your throat became sore Does your body still bounce with joyDo your eyes

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A Summer Treat

I’m four in this memory. It’s a hot summer day. I’m playing with my friend in the tiny back room of my home when my mother comes back from her shopping. “Girls, I’ve got a treat for you!” she calls out as she walks over to us. “It’s warm today. Have this and cool down!”

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Rain

The smell of grassThe smell of dirtThe dampness on my skin SuddenlyI’m back there againComing home That little girlCrouching over a snailFilled with wonders of the world

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A Man and a Dog

There were a man and a dog that I would see on my way to work every morning. Right when I came down the hill, I would spot them walking in my direction. The man was probably in his seventies, and he walked slowly as his small, white, fluffy dog took time checking out plants

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Empty Cup

Your cup is emptyBut you sit thereListening to me talkAs I sip my tea Your plate is emptyExcept for that one last bite you leftBut you look unbotheredWhile I slowly eat my food Kind patienceUnspoken careEven if no one said anythingI notice – your kindness in action

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