Sister and Niece

February 6th


Ms. Grasshopper, the documentary director, came at 11:15, with a camera.
My sister Kimi and my niece Yuka were coming from my hometown today.
The doorbell rang.


My sister arrived with red-eyes.
I fought back my tears
Deep in the nostrils I felt a sting.


Mom sent me a big hug through my sister.
My sister and Mom held me tight in her arms.
I couldn't hold it back anymore
I cried like a child.
The camera was rolling.


My sister bought me pajamas, so cute.
I love it, the color and style.  She knows my taste.
Thank you, Thank you.


Are they on board the super express already?
1 hour and 40 minutes to my hometown.
It's close while far and it's far while close, my hometown.
But I want to stay in tokyo for a while
As long as my life allows.

Poem by Maria Franki

Edited and translated by J. Ujiie

copyright 2011