I am a judge for this contest every year, and I cannot help but enjoy it because the drawings teach me so much. Great works were selected for awards again this time. There were works that were unfortunately not selected, but every work has its own charm and it was really difficult to choose. If I could, I would give an award to every entrant.

The works here are like mirrors of the children's beautiful hearts. Their hearts are reflected in the drawings. Drawing is more about nurturing and reflecting one's thoughts like a child than it is about painting well or improving one's skill. Children's hearts are really beautiful, and I am happy to witness this today in these drawings.

Calcium carbonate, found in iron sand and limestone in the mountains, flows into the soil of fields and into the sea through rain and rivers. The carbonate is eaten by microbes, which are eaten by animals and fish, which we then eat. Our bodies are connected to and made up of nature. This year's theme is "Joyful Times for People and Nature". From an adult's point of view, we tend to think of people and nature as separate things, but the children's drawings teach us that human beings and nature should not be considered separately, and that if nature must be beautiful, then we humans must be beautiful.

These artworks, which reflect the true, unclouded minds of children around the world, are exhibited at various locations in Japan, and I hope adults will see them when they have a chance. I am sure that the children's messages will resonate with you and you will enjoy a meaningful time.