In last week’s newsletter, I shared with you my Halloween tradition of being “that house” on the block that hands out pencils. This year, I kept the tradition alive but with a new twist!
Back in September, my husband and I went on our belated honeymoon to Japan, where we had the pleasure of visiting the renowned Kiyomizudera temple in Kyoto. One of the temple’s unique features is the Otowa Waterfall. The waterfall’s base is divided into three distinct streams, each believed to grant a different wish. The first stream promises longevity, the second is associated with success in school, and the third is said to bring luck in matters of the heart. It is recommended to select only two streams, as choosing all three would be considered greedy (and not lucky!).
While preparing for Halloween, I couldn’t help but connect this experience with our festive evening. So, I decided to offer not just the usual pencils but also chocolate toonies and mini granola bars as our three options.
My Halloween spiel went something like this (delivered in a theatrical voice): “Approach the Slide of Destiny if you dare! For tonight, you may select only two out of three options! #1: A Magical Pencil, for good luck with all your homework and success at school. #2: A chocolate toonie for luck in wealth! And finally, #3: A treat for today (the granola bar).” At the end of the night, the magical pencil emerged as the most popular item by far, followed by the chocolate toonie and far in third was the tasty treat for today.
While many adults expressed great surprise at the popularity of pencils as a Halloween choice, I wasn’t entirely taken aback. I’ve witnessed for years the enthusiasm of our young learners, who willingly choose our French summer camps, classes, or French tutoring over what some might consider traditionally “more fun” options. Parents even tell us sometimes that we’re the only camp their child will go to! Kids genuinely love learning, and it’s a privilege to be part of their educational journey alongside their families.
All in all, Halloween turned out to be a night filled with funny memories!
Pictured above The Slide of Destiny (just a downspout piece attached to my railing) Second photo: My husband and I at Kiyomizudera temple and the 3 lucky streams of water behind us.