2026/4/25(Sat.) *SMC*

Lecture: SM Yoko Narisawa

Fill in the blank.

1. I left halfway ( t       ) the film.

     = in the middle of the film

2. He ( f     ed ) for information about the new project.

= tried to find out information without asking directly

3. His father was murdered in cold ( b     ).

                     = in a cruel and deliberate way

4. His business partner left the project, so he was left holding the ( b   ).

= was left as the only person responsible for dealing with a difficult situation

5. Everyone praised her to the ( s     ) for her brilliant performance.

          = praised her very highly / enthusiastically

6. She did the dishes of her own ( a      ).

        = without being asked or forced to do the dishes / voluntarily

7. Our backyard party was in full ( s     ) when the thunderstorm hit.

              = reached its highest level

8. I told him ( f    ) I didn’t want to see him again.

  = told him directly and definitely

9. I hope the press doesn’t get ( w    ) of this.

  = hear a piece of information that someone else was trying to keep secret

10. He drew the ( s     ) straw and had to drive everyone to the party.

   = was unlucky because he was chosen to do something he would rather not do

 < Answer >

1. through  2. fished  3. blood  4. bag  5. skies

6. accord  7. swing  8. flat  9. wind  10. short

Table Topic Speech

(1) What life lesson did you learn the hard way?

(2) Can you describe your life in a six word sentence?

(3) If you were force to eliminate every physical possession from your life with the exception of what could fit into a single backpack, what woud you put in it?

(4) What do you want less of in your life?

(5) What makes you feel secure?

(6) What recent memory makes you smile the most?

(7) What was the last time you tried something new?

(8) If you looked into the heart of your enemy, what do you think you would find that is different from what is in your own heart?

Prepared Speech

(1) Moving with You to Enjoy Our English: SM Koizumi

I have been attending SMC for more than ten years. During that time, I have received so many ideas, so many insights, and so much inspiration. Each time, I felt, “Oh, I see… that’s interesting.” I enjoyed learning.

But recently, I began to feel something deeper. Even though I have learned so much, I have not fully used it. Those valuable experiences were just passing through me. And I thought… “This is such a waste.” SMC is a precious place. A place where we can grow together. A place where we can challenge ourselves. I don’t want to just listen anymore. I want to change.

At our last meeting, our coordinator, Kei, spoke about what makes a good speech. And our Speech Master, Kaneko, encouraged us to speak without a script. Their words stayed with me. Because I realized… I often hear good advice, but I don’t act on it.

So today, I decided to face that challenge. “Speaking without a script.” When we read from a script, our voice can become safe… but flat. But when we speak freely, our words begin to breathe. They carry our feelings. They reach people. We can look into someone’s eyes. We can feel the moment. We can connect. That is the kind of speech I want. But honestly, I am still afraid. What if I forget my words? What if I lose my way? What if my speech becomes messy? I have tried before… and I failed. At least, that’s how I felt.

But this time, I want to move forward, not step back. So I asked myself, “How can I do this better?” And I found three simple answers: Choose a topic I truly enjoy. Use simple and honest words. And build a clear, natural story. Step by step… I want to grow. That is why today, I am trying to speak without depending on a script.

Because you inspired me. Because I don’t want my speech to be just “correct.” I want it to be alive. Alive with feeling. Alive with connection. Alive with all of you. That is why I chose this title: “Moving with You to Enjoy Our English.”

　　Before, I sometimes felt that most of things here was rather difficult for me. But now, I feel something different. I feel that this time… this place… and all of you… are truly precious to me. So I will keep moving forward. Not alone, but with you. To enjoy our English, and to become a better person.

(2) Seasons for Enjoying Flowers: SM Kaneko

Good morning, everyone.

Let me start with an introduction. For me, the hardest part of making a speech is finding a topic. I am always looking for something to talk about. Recently, what has caught my attention most is the flowers I see along the streets, in parks, in gardens, and around the front doors of houses I pass by. I think this is a wonderful season for enjoying flowers.

My main point today is that we can enjoy flowers in every season.

First, in winter, even though many people think there are not many flowers to enjoy, there are some beautiful ones. Takahata-san once told me that pansies are a good choice for winter. At that time, I was not very interested in pansies, but last December I decided to grow some. They bloomed all through winter and are still blooming now. I even wondered if they were year-round flowers. Although they are not strong against summer heat, they have made my garden colorful for many months. So, thank you, Takahata-san, for your good advice.

Second, in summer, I recommend vinca, or Nichi-nichi-sou in Japanese. These flowers are very strong against heat. It almost feels like the hotter the summer gets, the more vibrant they become. They also come in many different colors, which makes the garden bright and cheerful. Having something beautiful to enjoy during extremely hot days helps balance the discomfort of summer.

Third, I enjoy not only looking at flowers but also growing them from seeds. I often collect seeds from flowers such as marigolds, cosmos, and vincas. By sowing seeds yourself, you can enjoy the whole process—from planting to blooming. This helps you feel connected to the plants for a much longer time than simply viewing flowers.

In conclusion, because there are many kinds of flowers and many ways to enjoy them, we can appreciate flowers throughout the year. Gardening has become one of my hobbies, and I believe it is a wonderful pastime, especially for someone like me—an elderly person living alone with plenty of free time.

Thank you very much.

(3) Can Kimchi Help Us Remove Microplastics?: SM Noro 

Today, I’d like to talk about something very small - but potentially very important: microplastics and nanoplastics in our bodies.

Recently, there has been news suggesting that bacteria found in kimchi may help remove nanoplastics from the human body. When I first heard this, I thought, “Really? Can kimchi clean our bodies?” It sounded almost too good to be true.

So, I looked into it.

Researchers have found that a certain type of lactic acid bacteria from kimchi can attach to nanoplastics. In laboratory experiments and studies with mice, these bacteria appeared to help carry nanoplastics out of the body through feces.

This is very interesting. It suggests a possible way to reduce harmful substances inside our bodies.

However, there is an important point.

So far, this effect has not been clearly proven in humans. The research is still at an early stage. Also, not all kimchi contains the same specific bacteria used in the experiments. So, we should be careful not to jump to the conclusion that “eating kimchi will remove microplastics.”

Then, what can we actually do?

I think the key idea is very simple: instead of trying to remove what is already inside our bodies, we should first reduce what enters our bodies.

Let me give you three practical examples.

-First important thing, water.

Studies show that bottled water often contains more microplastics than tap water. So, using reusable glass or stainless steel, bottles can help reduce exposure.

-Second, food and heating.

When we heat food in plastic containers, especially in a microwave, tiny plastic particles can be released. So, using glass or ceramic containers is a safer choice.

-Third, air.

We may not realize it, but indoor air contains microplastic fibers from clothes and dust. Regular cleaning and ventilation can help reduce what we inhale.

These are simple, everyday actions - but probably they can make a real difference.

Now, let’s go back to the idea of removing plastics from the body.

One of the most reliable methods we already know is dietary fiber.

Fiber helps move things through our digestive system. It can physically trap unwanted substances and help remove them naturally. So, eating vegetables, beans, and whole grains supports what I would call the body’s natural “flow.”

In that sense, kimchi and other fermented foods may still be helpful - not as a miracle cure, but as part of a healthy gut environment.

(4) Rethinking "Digital Dementia": SM Yamazaki

Today, I want to talk about something interesting — the relationship between technology and our brains, especially in older adults.

We often hear negative things about technology. For example, some people talk about something called “digital dementia.” This is the idea that using smartphones or computers too much could damage our memory and thinking ability over time.

Honestly, that sounds a bit scary, right?

But recently, a new study has challenged this idea.

Researchers in the United States looked at 57 different studies, covering more than 411,000 adults, with an average age of 68. They examined how people used digital technology — things like smartphones, computers, social media, and email — and compared that with their cognitive health.

And the result was surprising.

They found that older adults who used technology more often actually had a 42% lower risk of cognitive decline.

So instead of harming the brain, technology might actually help protect it.

Why could that be?

One reason is that using technology keeps the brain active. Learning how to use apps, searching for information, or even sending messages requires mental effort.

Another reason is social connection. Technology allows older adults to stay in touch with family and friends. And we know that loneliness can have a negative impact on cognitive health.

Of course, this doesn’t mean technology is perfect. The researchers also pointed out that more studies are needed. For example, we don’t yet know how different ways of using technology affect the brain.

Also, today’s older adults started using technology later in life. So it’s still unclear if the same benefits apply to younger generations who grow up with it.

Still, I think this study gives us an important message.

Technology is not just something that distracts us — it can also be a tool to support our minds and our connections with others.

So maybe the question is not “Is technology good or bad?” but “How can we use it wisely?”

Anyway, that’s all for today.

(5) Why Learning English Is Important: SM Ishimura

 Today, I would like to talk about why learning English is so important, and how it can truly make a difference in your life. English is often called a global language. It is spoken in many countries and used in news, business, travel, science, and education. When you can speak English fluently, many doors open for you. You can find better job opportunities, travel with confidence, and make friends from all over the world. Whatever your goals may be, learning English can help you reach them.

But learning English is not just about studying vocabulary or grammar. It is about building a skill that lasts a lifetime. It is an investment in yourself. Every new word you learn becomes a small bridge that connects you to the wider world. So, let’s explore why English is important and how it can change your life.

1. English is a global language

English is the official language in more than 50 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. It is also the common language used in international business, travel, and politics. When you speak English, you can communicate with people from almost any country. For example, even if you travel to a place where the local language is completely different, English often becomes the shared language. Imagine being in a hotel in Tokyo or an airport in France — you can still find people who speak English and help you. English is also the main language of the internet. A large percentage of websites, online courses, and global news are written in English. When you understand English, you gain access to information, ideas, and knowledge from around the world.

2. English connects you to people

Learning English allows you to meet people from different cultures and backgrounds. You can share ideas, exchange experiences, and build friendships that you would never have had otherwise. A single conversation in English can create a connection that crosses borders and cultures.

3. English expands your world by expanding your mind

This is the point I believe is the most important. When you learn English, you are not only learning a language — you are training your mind to see the world from new perspectives. You begin to understand different ways of thinking, different values, and different stories. In this way, English becomes more than a tool. It becomes a window to the world.

4. English gives you confidence

Every time you speak English — even if you make mistakes — you grow a little stronger. You prove to yourself that learning is always possible, no matter your age. This confidence spreads to other parts of your life. You start to feel more open, more curious, and more willing to try new things.

🌱 Conclusion

Learning English is not just about memorizing words. It is about opening your heart and mind to the world. It is about connecting with people, discovering new ideas, and building a skill that will support you for the rest of your life. So let us continue learning English together — step by step, word by word — and enjoy the wonderful journey it brings. Thank you for listening.

(6) Kazuma: SM Kei Narisawa

Ngayon, magsasalita ako tungkol kay Kazuma.(ンガヨン、マグササリタ アコ トゥンコル カイ カズマ).

Today, I’m going to talk about a YouTuber named Kazuma.At the beginning, I used a Tagalog phrase which means, “Today, I will talk about Kazuma.” I used Tagalog because I recently had the chance to socialize with some Filipinas.

Now, getting back to the main topic, Kazuma—as some of you may know—is a polyglot, or multilingual YouTuber, who is famous around the world. He is extremely talented. He can speak 17 different languages, including Japanese and English. It seems to me that Spanish is his strongest language, but he speaks many others fluently as well.

According to him, he can learn a new language in just one or two months. However, of course, it takes an additional one or two years to truly master it. It is clear that he is a genius.

Not only is he gifted, but he also genuinely enjoys learning foreign languages. That is what sets him apart from others. There may be many unsung geniuses, but they may not have an interest in languages. In addition, he learns not only from books written in his target languages, but also from YouTube.

Speaking of YouTube, he runs his own channel where he demonstrates how quickly he can build rapport with strangers in foreign countries. He has a disarming smile and excellent conversational skills. He is only 24 or 25 years old, yet he looks even younger. Interestingly, many foreign women say he is handsome.

He usually starts conversations in English, and once he learns the other person’s nationality, he smoothly switches to their native language. This helps him establish a strong connection with them. I’m not very familiar with how people communicate online, but there are platforms like Meetup and Skype. Most users on these platforms expect to speak in English, so they are often surprised and pleased when a young Japanese man speaks to them in their own language.

Another impressive thing about Kazuma is that he can remember and pronounce people’s names correctly, regardless of their nationality. Of course, he has a good ear, but more than that, he must be deeply familiar with many languages, which helps him recognize even unfamiliar-sounding names.

This has made me realize that it’s worth learning one or two foreign languages in addition to English. The Filipinas I mentioned earlier are always very happy when I speak Tagalog.

I also know a little Spanish.Gracias por su atención.

(7) When should I start to get pension?: SM Eda

Meeting Schedule

In-person: 9:30 AM on May 9 at Oyama Community Center (medium conference room)

(Coordinator: SM Noro)