The day of his contest we woke up and had a good breakfast. Then we headed to the town’s grand concert hall. We arrived early as was requested of us. Then we waited. We were happy to run into friends to wait with. The waiting area was filled with many students/contestants and their parents. Each contestant was excited. Some were also anxious. Several minutes later we were asked to have our children take a seat in the auditorium. Parents were requested to be seated 15 minutes after the contestants were seated. Soon after being seated the contest began. There was much of a ceremony feel to the occasion. There was introduction of judges. There was introduction of guest speakers. There were both Japanese and English-speaking guest adult speakers. The event was to foster more friendship between the Japanese and the Americans in this area.
Then the contest began. First the Japanese children went. The younger students went first then the older students. Some of the students were dressed in their school uniforms. Others were not. One young Japanese girl spoke about her teddy bear and had her teddy bear their as a prop and also wore her pajamas. It was pretty cute.
Around two hours later it was time for the American children to go. Boy oh boy! I am glad Alejandro survived the wait! He did a great job sitting on his own over with the other contestants. Being without us he still did a great job listening to the other speakers and contestants. Alejandro was the first American contestant to give his speech. Alejandro got a first place medal in his category. Additionally he was given a certificate of achievement. We all enjoyed the experience. Alejandro says that he really had a great time. The next day we saw his picture in an article in a local Japanese newspaper. Alejandro also got to go to each of the first grade classrooms at his Japanese school and give his speech again. We were all so excited for him doing so well.
This was an amazing opportunity for Alejandro. He did something new, and difficult, and succeeded spectacularly. He has learned that setting goals, challenging himself, and working hard will bring opportunities and blessings. I am so proud of him
How exciting! Thank you for telling us about this! I think it’s great that they had him go around and give his speech again. I think that really brings home the fact that he did a good job, and it’s not just that the prize or award is great, but giving the speech again is part of the award. Look out, Senate, here comes Alejandro!
Hurrah for Alex! Mom showed the speech to Kim and me on facebook. I was quite amazed at how well he speaks Japanese and the way he enthusiastically and clearly spoke. I am glad he won as well. I also saw the video of Carlos that was funny and cute! Continue to excel Alex and Carlos.
What a great confidence builder. Tell Alejandro that we’re very proud of his accomplishments.