Notes:
memorial services 法事;
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Three weeks ago, I went to a memorial service for a man who died at the age of 52. He was a sales representative for a textbook publisher, but I remember him as someone with a big heart who always listened carefully and tried to help teachers. I think many English teachers in Japan will miss him. Then, two weeks ago, I went to a memorial service for a singer who died of cancer at the age of 40. She was beautiful and very talented. Death is such a sad thing when it happens to people like these two. (by Prof. Douglas Jarrell)
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Notes:
labor pain 分娩(ぶんべん), 陣痛;
be relieved ほっとした;
delivery 分娩(ぶんべん), 出産;
miracle 奇跡;
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Last night I got an e-mail from my sister. She said, “My labor pains have started. Come back to Okinawa ASAP!!” This morning, on my way to Okinawa, my sister called me up and said, “Sorry, but the baby has already been born!” I was relieved and learned that a safe delivery is like a miracle. Finally, I met the two-hour-old baby. Our family is filled with great joy. Although I couldn’t attend the birthing, I’m so happy now because I have a new family member. There are now 17 people in my family! Can you believe it? We’re such a big family!! Ha ha ha… (written by student Miss Miyali, Medical School, Shimane University; edited by Prof. Douglas Jarrell)