Springtime, taking my first steps as an aspiring first grader.
Springtime full of dreams, red backpack on my shoulders.

When I entered the elementary school for disabled children, I moved into the dorm.
Misgivings filled me as my parents accompanied me to my room, but in no time I had hit it off with the older girls, and I saw Mum and Dad off with a smile.
The rest of the day was fun, but after going to bed I felt suddenly homesick and burst into tears.
Every day brought new experiences; sometimes it was a struggle.
I became friends with the third-grader in the next room, Eiko, and gradually I got used to communal living - a maze of rooms large and small, a bevy of younger and older kids.
We had lots of exciting times at the dorm, like fireworks and Christmas parties. Particularly fun were the birthday parties, when we'd all gather in the auditorium to perform songs and skits by room.
One time I played the lead role, Cinderella, borrowing a skirt from the housemother and stuffing it with newspapers for a petticoat.
I put all my tiny self into whatever I did, though I always eagerly looked forward to going home each weekend.

When you hear your name called, pluck up your courage and say "Here!"
Hang in there, first grader!
May you have lots of fun!