Ricky Barnes
University Academy
Kansas City, Missouri
Visiting Japan this summer changed my life for the better. I had no idea how much peace I would find in what I first assumed were just plain old drums. My summer abroad centered on spreading peace through Japan using the traditional practice of Taiko drumming. I explored many parts of the country and made memories I will never forget. In this essay, I will reflect on how this pivotal experience—filled with joy, challenge, and deep cultural immersion—enriched my personal growth and expanded my understanding of international unity.
The first week on Sado Island was intense. I felt excitement, nervousness, and homesickness all at once. I tried new foods, slept on a traditional futon, and spent hours in nature that looked nothing like home. We learned Taiko drumming, a deeply powerful form of music meant to foster peace and healing. We spent eight hours over two days learning a song we would later perform across Japan. It was difficult, but collaborating withmy group strengthened my resilience and teamwork—skills that will support me in future school projects. At the end of the week, we sat in silence to reflect on our time on the island. I became emotional and cried because the beauty of Sado and the warmth of its people moved me so deeply. We also visited schools, performed Taiko for Japanese students, and taught them American games. Their smiles reminded me how connection can bridge differences. I learned about the Ainu people and their fight to preserve their culture, which resonated with my own community’s struggles to be recognized. These moments affirmed that every culture is unique, valuable, and deserving of appreciation.
One of the greatest highlights of my trip was my host family, who embraced me immediately and made me feel like I belonged. One evening, I cooked chicken alfredo for them. Finding the ingredients in Japan was challenging, but seeing how much they enjoyed it made me proud. We spent evenings talking about our lives, families, and traditions, including my host mother’s fascination with Black hairstyles and how she has kept hers stylish over the years. Saying goodbye at the farewell party was emotional; I nearly cried while reading my thank-you letter because their kindness touched me so deeply. They showed me that kindness is universal—a lesson leaders everywhere could use to strengthen unity.
This summer truly transformed me. I learned to embrace new experiences and discovered that kind people exist everywhere. As I move through high school and eventually college, I will apply these lessons to build friendships and face challenges such as group projects with confidence and openness. The SDC program and my host family taught me that our differences can unite us. I am deeply grateful for Japan and the friendships I formed, and I will carry these memories with me as I strive to spread kindness wherever I go.
