Today, our 6th graders gathered in the Multi-Purpose Hall to listen to a lecture by Mr. Takara,

who currently works for the Okinawa Prefectural Archaeological Center. 

He shared his story, about how he was born with a physical condition (Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), also known as brittle bone disease). He spoke of surviving a deeply troubling childhood, based on people’s uninformed responses to his physical appearance. He said he was unable to accept himself for who he is, how he was born… that he strongly accused his mother, and even made her cry… which he heavily regrets even to this day. 

Just about the same time, his mother spoke words of wisdom to him — “You are you, and no one else is. You are precious. No need to be the same as others. Just be yourself.”  From then on, he found the courage and dignity to accept himself for who he is, and he started to think more positively…

He engaged nearly every challenge that approached. He played handball, as all of his family members did, he attended high school in mainland Japan, and he even studied abroad for a few years during college. He then spoke in a persuasive, inspiring tone when he said — “If I can do it, then surely, you can do it too!” He really wanted to tell us that the sky is the limit, and that we are afforded countless opportunities available to us. Especially, given the premise that Mr. Takara had to give up some of his goals, due to his physical limits. 

He also reminded his listeners that only one thing given to ALL of us equally is “Time.”  He inspired us to live our lives to the fullest capacity, and to be sure we are thankful to the people around us for however we choose to spend our Time. 

We all thanked Mr. Takara for the inspiration.