Like a Farmer Trusting the Rice's Time, Waiting Patiently

The author draws a parallel between the patient work of a farmer and the nurturing of children, inspired by the children's book 'Momomomomo.' The book depicts a farmer angered by weeds interfering with his rice crop, prompting a reflection on the time and effort involved in growing a single grain of rice.

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A farmer who grows rice with great care waits for the rice to grow.

This process of sowing, watering, weeding, and waiting for the seasons mirrors the development of children. Just as rice plants grow at their own pace, so do children. Some may learn to read later, while others need more time to express their feelings.

The author emphasizes the importance of having patient individuals who "wait and see" for children. When such support is present, children can grow and develop according to their individual timelines.

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Children also grow at their own pace. Some children learn to read a little later, and some children take longer to express their feelings.

The piece concludes with a hopeful vision for libraries: spaces that trust and wait for children's unique developmental rhythms. The author believes that by embracing this philosophy, libraries can become more inclusive and enriching environments, much like how each child reading a book adds to the community's richness.

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Just as a farmer trusts and waits for the time of the rice, I hope the library will be a place that trusts and waits for the time of the children.