Ryoji Kikura, a resident of Hokuryu Town, contributed "Prayers for Peace in Sunflowers" to the Hokkaido Shimbun's "Reader's Voice" (August 13, morning edition).

Monday, August 15, 2022

The Hokkaido Shimbun's "Reader's Voice" (August 13, morning edition) featured a contribution from Ryoji Kikura, 84, a Hokuryu-cho resident.

Hokkaido newspaper

Submitted by Ryoji Kikura

We have received permission from him to publish his contribution.

Prayer for Peace in the Sunflower

Agriculture Ryoji Kogura 84(Hokuryu Town, Sorachi District)

On the 6th, the "Memorial Ceremony for the Atomic Bomb Victims and Peace Memorial Ceremony" was held in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park as a prayer for peace.

On the same day, 2.3 million sunflowers were in full bloom in a 23-hectare field in Hokuryu Town. Many visitors held their hands together as the sunflowers bloomed beautifully and powerfully in the midsummer sun.

We received words of thanks from everyone for the beautiful flowers. I strongly felt their prayers for a bright and peaceful society free from war and disasters, and I realized the significance of having nurtured them for 42 years with the help of the townspeople.

On the 6th, a forum calling for the use of organic produce in school lunches was held in Sapporo, organized by the Hokkaido Food and Life Association, where heated opinions were exchanged.

We, farmers, cherishing the idea that "food is life," will continue to produce safe food with our hands, skills, and hearts, with our families and communities working together. I believe that this will lead to the blooming of peace like sunflowers in full bloom.

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