My 12-year-old nephew had his first sleepover at an American house. The Harpers, the Georgia family on our street.
The next day, without anyone asking, he handed his mother a report.
She read it to me over the phone. Translated, here it is.
SLEEPOVER REPORT
by Sota, age 12
DINNER
Everyone held hands to pray. I did not know whose hand to hold. I panicked and held the closest one. It was Mr. Harper's.
Mr. Harper calls me "Champ." I have never won anything.
BREAKFAST
Biscuits are not cookies. I asked three times.
They put white gravy on them. At 8 a.m. My life is different now.
GAME
We played a game about buying houses. Mrs. Harper bought everything. Nobody spoke to her for ten minutes. Then everyone hugged. I do not understand this game.
SECRET
Emma beat me at arm wrestling. She is 8. Please do not tell anyone.
BEST THING
At dinner, Mr. Harper prayed. He thanked God for the food, for the day, and then he said:
"And thank you for Sota, who is with us tonight."
He said my name to God.
I have never been introduced to God before.
OVERALL SCORE
10 out of 10.
Please let me go back.
I want to hear my name again.