Last Day at Sendagi

Today was my final day at the larger of the two elementary schools I have been working in. I gave my speech yesterday and managed not to make any mistakes, although I was nervous and a little shaky. I got a great response and noticed that the kids looked at me a little differently, perhaps with a little more respect, or so I'd like to think.

I signed my name at least 500 times today, no joke. The kids had me signing everything, their school i.d. tags, books, notebooks, hands, pencil cases and erasers. One girl had me sign every book and note book she had. It took my entire free period of about 30 minutes just to sign my name for the 3rd graders. I felt bad writing all over their stuff, but they were very persistent ('sign, sign please!") and would have me sign my name 5 times or more for each of them, usually in different colors and sizes. I have experienced my fifteen minutes of fame and it was heart-melting. Kids were asking me for my cell phone number and home address, which was cute. I gave them my email instead, so we'll see how many emails I get in Japanese.

Saying goodbye was harder than I thought it would be. Almost every class either sang or gave me a speech in English saying thank you and goodbye. I left with a bouquet of flowers, many notes and origami leis. They made me feel very special and appreciated. It was an emotionally intense day. I felt something I had never felt before, the responsibility to do everything I can to make the world a better place for them. I think I've finally grown up. This was an experience I will never forget. Here are some photos from yesterday.