JAPAN

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As May comes to a close, this time of year reminds us of high school and college graduations. In Japan, students usually graduate from their school in March, not in May. And girls usually wear traditional Hakama pleated skirt instead of cap and gown to attend their graduation ceremony.

My daughter graduated from her college with her diploma in traditional hakama skirt, too. Although It’s been more than six years, the photo of her in Hakama and diploma always reminds me of the days of graduation, and that still makes me proud.

Today’s Japanese phrase: “Hokori ni omoimasu.” = I’m very proud of you.

(“hokori” = pride, “.. ni omoimasu” = I feel it is.)

Why not congratulate your son and daughter with this Japanese phrase. I’m sure it will help make the graduation even more special.

Congratulations all the graduates and “Hokori ni omoimasu!”

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