Hey! Do You Want My Autograph？

　　In this day and age of video-gaming and SNS, more and more young people are becoming less confident about themselves and are trying less things due to a lack of interest. According to the National Institute of Health in the United States, children between the ages of 8 and 17 spend at least two hours a day playing video games and accessing the Internet. The National Institute of Health states that spending long hours playing video games and engaging in Internet activities can lead to a decrease in physical well-being, but also negative changes in social behavior. Two common negative changes are a lack of confidence when speaking face-to-face with peers, and also a lack of interest in trying new things. Having confidence to speak to others and to try new things is a crucial part of being a member of society and for maintaining a healthy mental state. In this presentation, I would like to share how I was able to build up my confidence by trying new things.

　　When I was in elementary school, I hated the school play that was held every year because everyone had to say at least one line in the play. Every year when I got the script, I always counted the lines of each role. Why? Because I wanted to choose a role that had the least lines. I lacked confidence speaking to an audience, but also, I was deathly afraid to try something new. That all changed in Grade 6.

　　It was November, and it was time for the annual play. We were to choose roles again for the upcoming play, but this year, the organizing teacher decided to show all the students the play performed by professionals. As I watched the play, I saw how confident the actors looked and the wonderful response of the audience. At that moment I thought maybe I could be like one of those actors and I decided to challenge a bigger role. The role I wanted had 21 lines which was a lot. But I thought this was my chance to change myself rather than being afraid to try. So, I decided to join the audition. And can you believe it! I won the audition! Once the practices for the play started, I practiced every day in front of the mirror. On the day of the play, I was nervous, but I tried my best and the play was a success. Soon after the play, I found myself talking more to my classmates due to an increase in my confidence. I decided to try other things. For example, I tried singing in front of everyone in school, being a conductor for the chorus contest, and even speaking in a speech contest.

　　There is one more recent story that I want to share with you. In March 2024, I was selected to be the conductor of the song "Auld Lang Syne", which was going to be sung at the graduation ceremony. When I was first told about this honor, I thought everything would be easy because of my past success. I was completely smug, which means being overconfident and a bit arrogant, and I didn't practice a thing. As a result, I made many mistakes. After my failed attempt conducting, I was expecting to get bashed by everyone because of my poor conducting and smug attitude and thought about quitting. But, instead of being angry with me, my classmates were completely supportive. This is when I realized that trying new things and not quitting if you fail was important for building confidence. I also understood the importance of not being overconfident.

　　Gaining confidence can sound a bit difficult. But, like my experience, if you believe in yourself even once, take a step forward, and try your best, you can change your whole life. If I hadn't taken that first step when I was in the 6th grade, I wouldn't be here speaking to you today.

　　So, ... take a chance - choose a role with more lines - sing in front of the class - get off your video game - close your TikTok ... and ... gain confidence. By the way, do you want my autograph? Oh sorry! I was getting smug!

　　Thank you for listening.

(1st Prize of the 76th Contest, 2024)

Achieving Peace

　　Is world peace even possible? Many people don't think so. According to a survey by the Goi Peace Foundation, 72% of Japanese youth aged 10-25 don't believe they will see world peace being achieved in their lifetime. Only 9% remain optimistic. For a long time, I was part of the 72%. I saw peace as something only politicians or diplomats could influence, something far beyond the reach of ordinary people like me.

　　However, something changed this perspective I had. It was something I've been fortunate to experience throughout my life; cultural exchange.

　　My family used to host exchange students nearly every year, allowing me to witness cultural exchange firsthand. As a child, I didn't fully grasp its significance. To me, it was simply an exciting opportunity to meet new people. But as I got older, I realized that these interactions meant much more -- they were small yet powerful steps toward peace. Let me share a personal story to illustrate this.

　　This summer, I had the honor of participating in a project called Over the Wall. Founded by the artist Kensuke Miyazaki, this global initiative brings together people from different nations through the universal language of art. Every year in a different country, the project members work with the local people to paint a mural symbolizing unity and hope. When I first learned about the project, I was so inspired that I reached out and asked to join.

　　This year, the mural was created in Palau to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Japan and Palau's diplomatic relations. The two countries shares history dating back to 1920, when Palau was under Japanese rule during World War II. They renewed diplomatic ties in 1994.

　　In the project I helped local children paint on the mural. At first, there was a natural distance between us -- different ages, cultures, and the complicated history that separated us. But as we painted together something magical happened.

　　One child asked me, "Is Japan where Totoro is from?" With a smile, I replied, "Yes!" At that moment the walls between us crumbled.

　　Some people might say: how can such a naive conversation lead to world peace? Well, thanks to that "naive" conversation, I was able to connect with the Palawan children despite our different backgrounds and history. Throughout the project painting together, no one was judged; everyone's contribution was celebrated. In that small world, I saw peace happen through cultural exchange. I realized peace isn't a goal accomplished by great leaders but an accumulation of small connections between people just like us. To simply be and bond with each other not as different sides but as humans. Cultural exchange teaches us the importance of personal connections.

　　What would happen if all of us were to experience this?

　　Cultural exchange doesn't always have to involve people from different countries. As for me, I took my first small step toward peace: I started a project called "THINK" with my school friends, where we create magazines and host workshops to exchange cultures within my local community.

　　Remember the statistics I gave you in the beginning? Now, are you ready to join me in the optimistic 9 %? World peace may seem like an impossible goal, but if we remind ourselves that we're simply just human, no strings attached, connected with each other right here right now, peace is achieved.

(2nd Prize of the 76th Contest, 2024)

Beyond the Context

　　You think you just fell out of a coconut tree? You exist in the context of all in which you live and what came before you." These are words spoken by Kamala Harris. Like patchwork quilts, we were raised inside society and culture. Yes. Me, you, and all who exist continue to live in its legacy. Because no human can live on their own.

　　The first time I discovered context was in my residential village in Vietnam. Residents were mainly Japanese and American nationals. Just like our countries, it seemed we'd get along, yet it turned out to be the complete opposite.

　　Even when friendships blossomed, they disagreed over things like using the fridge without asking or wearing shoes inside the house. Both sides began avoiding each other--the disagreements even getting violent sometimes in divided kids groups of Japanese and International schools. In this village, I belonged to both. I went to a Japanese school while my best friend Ellie was American. My older sister also attended an international school.

　　When I was in the first grade, a fifth-grade boy found me alone on the school bus and said, "Your sister in international school speaks terrible English". I defended her by saying "No, it's not my sister, it's you". He then violently shook my bag-- and made me cry all the way home. However, the fifth grader denied what he did to the teachers and parents. All the Japanese kids believed him. Nobody believed me. All except for Ellie.

　　When we are trapped in the context, it can be so easy to forget that each of us is human in our own right--and Imperial Japan was no exception. They called American people "devils" and "animals", creating a context to dehumanize them. Challenging the context meant exclusion. Nobody was free from the context. No one. America was also trapped in their context. They named the Japanese people "JAPs", conducting multiple dehumanization propaganda. They sent their Japanese-American citizens to concentration camps and used inhumane atomic bombs.

　　In war, countries often trap citizens in national contexts. When we see people not as humans but as enemies, we eventually convince ourselves that we can do anything to them. Then, how could people escape from the context they're trapped in? The answer is not in our differences but in our shared values.

　　I would like to share a quote from "kimishinitamou kotonakare" written by Akiko Yosano in 1904.

　　　Dear little brother, I cry for you, thou shalt not die.

　　　As the youngest child, you loved everyone

　　　Would parents place a blade in children's hands

　　　Teaching them to murder other men

　　　Teaching them to kill and then to die?

　　　Have you so learned and grown to twenty-four?

　　　Thou shalt not die.

　　　The emperor may not fight the war but he has mercy

　　　He will not say to bleed, friend, or foe

　　　He will not say to die, past the road of thorns

　　　He will not say to die in the empty name of honor

　　No matter what country or context we belong to, the heart that loved our friends and family are the same.

　　Then we must have the capability to overcome our differences and emphasize shared values. That way, even with our different opinions, we may communicate and step to reconciliation. The opposite of dehumanizing is becoming friends. Beyond the context, beyond the differences, beyond the borders.

(3rd Prize of the 76th Contest, 2024)

Becoming the "Someone Else"

　　Imagine this: You're in a crowded train station during rush hour, and you see a person kneeling down and looking pale. How many of you will actually take the time to make sure that person is okay? I'm willing to bet that most of you would answer "I will". But when you're actually faced with a situation like this, you will likely make excuses to avoid the situation. Such as: "I'm busy now", "They're too far from me", "someone else will take care of it". This is how I used to feel when I was faced with a problem, big or small. I made excuses that "I wasn't able to" do something, to make myself feel less guilty. However, that completely changed on the night of March 20th, 2024.

　　I went to my grandmother's apartment in Saitama for spring vacation. I always travel with my mother, but since she had something to do back in Sendai, I went alone for the first time. Me and my grandma caught up on things, and everything was going well. Until she tripped on a cord and fell. She was still conscious, but looking pale. I asked her if she was okay, and brought her a glass of water as well as an ice pack. She said she was fine, but I didn't know what to do. My mind was blank at that moment, as we were all alone. Calling my mother was the only action that came to mind. I hit the call button with my hand, my heart beating from the nerves and worry. I was so relieved when I heard my mom's voice on the phone. I explained what had happened, and she calmly suggested that I call the ambulance and tell them my current situation.

　　That was when I realized that no one could turn this around, except me. I had to get moving and call the ambulance. I had to look the problem directly in the eye, and face it. Because no one else would.

　　I called the ambulance for the first time in my life. It was nerve-wracking, to say the least, but I was relieved to know that everything was going to work out. My grandmother returned home the same day, and turned out to be just fine.

　　This experience opened my eyes to a new perspective. I was able to take action because I was the only person who could. But now, I want to be able to do the same thing, even when other people are around. If someone has trouble in public, I used to think someone else would help them. "There are so many people around anyway, me trying to help wouldn't make a difference".

　　But, I realized that most people think like that. Nobody will take action if everyone believes that someone else will. I therefore want to act. I do not want to be like the majority of people--those who would pass by, worry about the person for a little while, and then assume someone else would come to their aid. Instead of thinking that "someone else will step up and help" like the majority, I want to become that "someone else" to everyone. The "someone else" who steps up when no one else does, the "someone else'' who acts instead of hoping someone else will.

　　I believe if more people did the same, the world would be a warmer and more loving place.

　　Now, let me ask you all again.

　　Would you take the time out of your busy day to reach out to someone having trouble? Would you be that "someone else"?

(4th Prize of the 76th Contest, 2024)

The Unknown Heroes

　　To watch or not to watch: that is the question. "Watch what?" you must be wondering. I am talking about the closing credits in the movies, commonly known as "endo-roru" in Japan. Yes, that's right! It's that very long list of names after names of every single person who worked as a cast or a crew member in making a movie.

　　A couple of years ago, I had an opportunity to play a small role in a movie as one of the classmates of the main character. It was my first time to experience a movie shooting, and I must say, I was amazed at how much time and hard work went into filming even the shortest and the simplest scenes. However, what surprised me the most was to see how many people were actually involved in the process. Aside from the actors, the directing staff, and the camera crew, there were people in charge of make-up and hair styling, choosing costumes, controlling light and sound, making props, keeping time, monitoring the screen, and the list goes on and on. It was so interesting and fascinating to watch what they did, completely unnoticed behind the scenes, yet absolutely indispensable. Without them, the movie would not have been possible.

　　This experience changed the way I looked at things dramatically. Before, I was only interested in the completed version of a movie and the big names that appeared in the title. I never knew or appreciated the contributions made by people who remained unseen and unknown. I will be honest. I was one of those people who chose not to watch the credits. I thought that they were long and boring, and they didn't mean anything to me. Now that I fully understand their significance, I watch them with attention and respect for every name I see, smiling as I imagine these people, busy at work, moving about behind the scenes.

　　Now, I also realized that this idea is not just about movies and the crew members. Look around us. Every item we use in our everyday lives is the collaboration of efforts made by countless numbers of people. For example, the food we eat comes from the store where someone unpacked the food products from the boxes and arranged them on the shelves. But before that, someone transported them from the market to the store in a truck. And before the food got to the market, it was grown on a farm or processed in a factory where many more people worked to produce the goods. And this applies not only to the products, but also the services we receive. How about the people who collect trash for us? And people who supply us with clean water or electricity? And people who repair and maintain bridges, railroad tracks, and highways? If all of these people's names were included in the "credits," can you imagine how long the list would be?

　　This is about people who work hard behind the scenes that we often overlook. We take for granted that our lives are supported and made possible by so many people, their time, and their energy. We don't know their names, and we'll probably never meet them in person, but they are the heroes who play a significant role in our lives. And not so far in the future, you and I will also join this list of supporters, doing something that will help and improve the life of someone we don't know. Maybe someone who lives on the other side of the globe! Isn't it so exciting to think that we are all connected like this? I can't wait to find out what I will be doing and how I can contribute to the world. After all, we may not all become famous superstars, but what each of us can do as "unknown heroes" will be just as valuable.

(5th Prize of the 76th Contest, 2024)

Identity Crisis

　　"Why do I feel this way about her?"

　　"Am I abnormal for feeling this way about the same sex?"

　　"Why am I supposed to only like the opposite sex?"

　　These are some of the questions I asked myself three years ago. At that time, I had fallen in love, but it was with a girl instead of a boy! However, my next crush was a boy, and that was followed by another girl. At this point, I felt like I was losing my mind. I began to question my sexual identity, even to the point of taking quizzes online! Only to get different results each time, further confusing me!

　　As time went by, my confusion turned into angst. One day, I overheard a couple of my classmates talking about the LGBTQ+ community. I heard them throw out words like, "weird," "disgusting," "worthless," to name a few. I now felt ashamed and horror-struck by the thought of not being accepted by my peers, of being alienated from friends and classmates. I had no one to talk to, and I didn't want people to think I'm not normal, or even worse, different from the rest of society!

　　With no one to turn to, I was forced to turn towards the Internet for answers. There I found out about the various types of human sexuality: heterosexuality, homosexuality, and bisexuality.

　　I also discovered that many people in the LGBTQ+ community struggle with issues similar to mine. Continuing my research, I learned that the official resources available to young Japanese people are very limited. This angered me, it's my life, so why can't I have access to information and support to help better understand myself? Additionally, is the Internet really the best place for a young person to learn about these topics? Especially, when one feels like there is no one to offer them guidance. I don't want others to experience the same negative emotions as I did. Japan is still very close-minded on subjects of this nature. For others' sake and mental wellness, I would like to see this change in the future.

　　Towards this end, what can be done to promote inclusivity for a greater variety of people? My goal is to make them feel like they are supported and accepted, regardless of sexual orientation or preference. In my opinion, Japanese society needs to acquire a more worldly perspective. In order to accomplish this goal, we need to take educational measures to help improve the awareness and understanding of human sexuality in the youth of Japan; because they are the future of this country! I believe that Japanese youth need opportunities to learn about their own individuality in a non-judgmental environment. Additionally, the youth of Japan need access to more resources, in order to come to a decision on their sexuality. The ultimate goal, is for the youth to recognize their shared humanity, despite their uniqueness. Doing this would help create a more supportive and resilient society; which would be beneficial for everyone, not just those in the LGBTQ+ community!

　　I had to face many obstacles and misunderstandings during my journey to figure out my sexual identity. Now, with the support of my friends and the people around me, I stand proud as a bisexual! However, I don't want other people to feel the same way I did. My greatest dream is to be able to help others to discover their sexual identity in a positive, supportive environment.

　　Consequently, I would hope those in the public eye would become advocates for a greater understanding in society. By offering information, counseling, and greater acceptance to those, who are searching to understand and accept their true identity. I hope I can pave the way for all people to feel comfortable with their own sexual identities, and to express who they truly are without fear, uncertainty, or retaliation. I believe that together, we can lead Japan to becoming a more open-minded, and supportive society for all!

(6th Prize of the 76th Contest, 2024)

Stereotypes

　　What do you think about me?

　　My name is Chihiro. I am living strong and positive. I was born with a disability, and I have never felt weak or sorry for myself. Living in a wheelchair has always been my normal. It has taught me many things and brought me unique experiences.

　　As a disabled person, I have been stereotyped many times since I was little. Do you know "stereotype"? When we make general ideas about a group of people, that is a stereotype. Some common stereotypes are that Japanese people are shy and that men are strong-- but the truth is, not all Japanese people are shy, and not only men are strong! Stereotypes hurt people and create barriers. They overlook the unique characteristics that make us who we are. Even a casual comment can be painful for someone else. I've cried over the stereotypes that people have said about me. When I was little, I didn't like going out or meeting people. I didn't even like being seen by people.

　　"Can you walk? Do you want to walk?" are questions that people often ask me, whether it's during class, during breaks at school, when I'm meeting someone for the first time, even at the supermarket. These questions are hurtful because I can't walk, and it's normal for me not to. I quickly learned that many people think that having a disability is not normal. But, what does "normal" actually mean? For me, living in a wheelchair is "normal", but for some people, walking is "normal." In this way, every person is different and every person is normal. You can't push your own idea of normal onto others.

　　My family would often say, "If someone looks at you, it's because you're attractive!" and "Chihiro is strong, don't worry about it!". Their words made me realize that I shouldn't miss the chance to meet people, so I decided to face it. I noticed that when I meet people for the first time, they focus on my wheelchair. But, as we got to know each other, their stereotypes faded, and we became friends. Now, when someone says something hurtful to me, I remind myself that, even though I can't walk, I am smart and unique.

　　Kunieda Shingo, a wheelchair tennis player, said, "Sometimes people say, 'playing tennis in a wheelchair is amazing.' It makes me uncomfortable. We're playing tennis just like other people." His experience shows another kind of stereotype. If you think that people with disabilities can't do something, then you'll be surprised. People are different in many ways, such as ethnicity, religion, and gender. We should get to know each person and find their strengths. This way, society can be brighter and more inclusive.

　　So, I'll ask again, "What do you think about me?" When I came on the stage, maybe some of you were thinking, "Oh, she's doing her best in a wheelchair." But now, you might think, "Wow, she's cheerful!" or "it's wrong to look at someone and only see their wheelchair". As I said earlier, I am living strong and positive. Don't you think it's a waste to let stereotypes stop us from really knowing each other?

(7th Prize of the 76th Contest, 2024)

Facing a New Path

　　My dream is to become a doctor. I want to be the kind of person who helps many people, both domestically and internationally.

　　I was deeply inspired by my older brother who has a developmental disability. My brother cannot speak. He is 17 years old but his vocabulary is limited to sounds, similar to a baby. He is very sensitive to the smallest of changes. When he is stressed, he starts to pull our hair or pinch our arms. He also cries and screams loudly when he is excited.

　　When I was younger, I hated my brother. I was embarrassed because he'd act out around others too. In elementary school, he would not only pull my hair, but my friends' hair. I felt so ashamed as I had to apologize for his behavior over and over again. As I grew and he continued to behave the same way, I distanced myself from him. At school, I would pretend he was a stranger. I didn't want people to know we were related.

　　To my surprise, my friends would treat him normally and were kind to him. Eventually, I asked my friends, "Aren't you afraid of him?" They laughed and said, "No, he's your brother! There's nothing to be afraid of." It was like a switch had been flipped in my mind. I realized that despite him being my own family, I had developed a prejudice against my brother due to his disabilities. From that moment, I decided that I wanted to eliminate my own biases, treat everyone equally and be of service to others by becoming a doctor. As a doctor, I will be able to lead a life where I can help people like my brother. As a result of the influence that he has had on me, I want to work closely with people who cannot receive medical care and those with developmental disabilities who cannot communicate well. I want to help them have a healthy body and mind.

　　After realizing that, I asked myself "How can I achieve my goals?" First, I decided I should put my best effort into everything I do. Studying is of course important, but I also understand the importance of spending time with my family, especially with my brother. I wanted to do more activities with him, and my mother and I thought, "Ah! What about Radio Taiso?" as he was likely to join us. When we tried to invite him, my brother quickly said, "No!" From then on though, every morning he watches Radio Taiso. I'm glad we introduced it to him because now he is passionate about it!

　　Next, I decided to take on a leadership role at school. In this role, it's necessary for me to choose my words carefully in order to bring people of all backgrounds together. Thanks to my experience with my brother, I can get along well with my peers without prejudice and be a good leader to everyone. Through this, I understand the importance of communication and the value of learning a new language. So, I am focusing on studying English. I think English is an important tool to communicate with people all around the world.

　　I started saying "I want to become a doctor" every chance I got. The more I said these words, the more my motivation grew, and I felt that it could one day become a reality. I believe that when we talk about our feelings out loud, the feelings within us become stronger and give us the courage to face new challenges ahead. There's still a long way to go on my path and I know that it's going to take a lot of work. Yet, my passion to become a doctor becomes stronger and stronger every single day. Now that I am closer to my brother, I can understand his struggles. I have developed a lot of empathy for him, so I want to become a doctor who can help people like my brother lead a fulfilling life. I am determined to continue on this path until I reach my goal.

(The World Family Award of the 76th Contest, 2024)

安河内哲也（やすこうち・てつや）　東進ハイスクール・東進ビジネススクール英語科講師。一般財団法人実用英語推進機構代表理事。話せる英語、使える英語を教えることを重視し、予備校や大学のほか、企業や教育委員会の研修でも講師を務める。