As a child, I was often asked by parents and adults, “What is your dream?” or “What kind of person do you want to be in the future?” Of course, my answer was always “I don’t know.” No matter how many times I thought about it or worried, I couldn’t find an answer. I thought I couldn’t find a dream. I believed that one doesn’t need to think about why to live just to lead a normal life.
However, when I became a high school student, a certain accident made me think differently. Due to this accident, my father had to retire from his job. Consequently, to earn money due to our family’s financial situation, my mother went to work in South Korea. Although she was not strong and didn’t understand Korean at all, she worked alone and sent us money. Even when she was tired, lonely, or sick, she always smiled, mustered her energy, and said, “It’s okay.” Seeing my mother like this, I couldn’t stand it any longer. I thought I had to do something too.
At that time, my homeroom teacher introduced me to the Asahi Shimbun Scholarship Course. Thinking, “Ah, this is a good opportunity,” I decided to study in Japan.
Thanks to studying in Japan, I met kind teachers and made many friends, which was truly wonderful.
Now, I have gotten used to my job and am gradually saving money. I’ve become able to support my family. My mother has also returned home, which gives me peace of mind.
Now, if someone asks me, “What is your dream?” I can answer immediately. My dream is to make my family happy. Therefore, I will continue to study and work hard.
To my father and mother, thank you so much for everything. From now on, please leave everything to me. I will definitely make you both happy.