I was born in a poor, run-down house
Where I lived with my parents and siblings
We were a family
When I think back to the white cat that was born in the shed
I realize the reason I was able to survive
Was because I was part of a family
I’m glad
That I survived

Source: Tokuji Suzuki’s collection of paintings: Proof of Life – From a Hansen’s Disease Sanatorium, (Koseisha, 2002).