I never imagined I would ever travel outside the country. In fact, as a child, the idea of leaving my hometown seemed almost impossible. But when I was 6 years old, I had the incredible opportunity to travel abroad, and it all came through the daycare center where I studied. The trip was part of a summer camp program sponsored by a group of Japanese organizers. Each year, after the school year ended, they would select a few students to join their summer camp in Japan. The chosen kids would spend about a week there, participating in a variety of activities that introduced them to Japanese culture, games, and traditions.
I was one of the lucky kids selected to join the camp that year, and I couldn’t believe it. There were originally supposed to be three students sent from our daycare center, but, unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the third child couldn’t make it. So, it ended up being just two of us who went: Ira, my classmate, and me. She was not only my classmate, but also my first crush. I remember being so excited and nervous at the thought of spending an entire week with her in another country, far away from home.
Along with Ira, we were accompanied by two school officials and another chaperone during the trip. The experience felt so surreal, especially since, as a 6-year-old, everything seemed bigger and more exciting. One of the things that stood out the most was that we stayed in tents during the camp. Can you imagine how thrilled I was? I got to spend so much time with Ira, and as a kid, I was just so happy to be close to her, even though I didn’t fully understand my feelings at the time.
The camp itself was full of fun and laughter. We spent time with local Japanese kids, learning about their culture and traditions, playing games, and enjoying outdoor activities. Everything felt magical, and I remember feeling like it was a dream come true. But what made it even more special was the bond I shared with Ira. It felt like our own little world, even though we were surrounded by other kids and adults.
Unfortunately, after that unforgettable week, Ira and I went our separate ways. We never saw each other again after the camp. Life took us in different directions, and as the years went by, our paths never crossed. It’s strange to think about how time can carry people so far apart, even when you once shared such a unique experience together.
Now, many years later, this is the only photo I have left as a reminder of that time, of Ira, and of that amazing journey to Japan. I often wonder if she remembers me or if she’s even thought about those days. She’s probably changed a lot, as we all have. But to me, that photo captures a moment of pure happiness, of childhood innocence, and of a memory that I’ll always treasure. Even though we’ve walked separate paths in life, that small chapter we shared will always stay with me.
