Cranes link two cultures

By HOLLY DIFABRIZIO
A FEW paper cuts and finger cramps are not getting in the way of a lasting tribute to a young girl affected by the Hiroshima bombing many years ago.
Hillcrest Christian College students have committed to folding 1000 origami
cranes (Zenbazuru) to commemorate the inspirational story of Sadako and the
Thousand Paper Cranes.
Approximately 200 Year 5-7 students currently learning Japanese have been
working tirelessly to meet the target.
Hillcrest’s Japanese teacher Michelle Warner has been pleased with the positive
response from students and dedication to the task at hand.
“While this was an ambitious undertaking requiring each student to make five cranes during class time or at home, we succeeded,” Ms Warner said.
“Each student contributed at least one origami crane, while others brought 25 to 50 from home that they had worked on with siblings and friends.”
Ms Warner’s inspiration behind the project was to bring a message of peace and commitment to the work of children all over the world and to foster understanding and forgiveness.
Upon completion, the paper cranes made by the Hillcrest students will be sent to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Hall in Japan for display.
Further information on Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes can be found at
www.origami-resource-center.com/sadako.html.