Daily Archives: December 11, 2007

Several years ago, in an earlier entry in this journal, I mentioned how I felt I was racing against time.  On October 16, 2007, I thought I was going to die.  In fact when I opened my eyes, I thought I was dead for awhile.  I consider that event my third brush with death.  

I am determined to do all I can in my short life with you.  I want to live a full and happy life, and I will do my best for others.  I have so much more work to accomplish and so much more fun to experience.  My time with my family and friends are very precious.

From December 6 to December 10, I was in Tokyo, Japan attending services at Shinnyo-en’s main temple, which is located in Tachikawa.  On December 8, Shinnyo-en invited Buddhist monks and a peace organization from China in hopes of maintaining a peaceful relationship between Japan and China.  

I participated in sesshin (meditation) and received some guidance.  I prayed to my ancestors and teachers.  I prayed to the living and dead who are sufferring, even to those who are considered evil so they can find peace.  I also prayed to the spirits of the animals, many of which we eat.  

I was impressed with the temples and the many displays of various Buddhas and Boddhisattvas.  I poured water on a statue of Jizo and prayed to him.  He is a Boddhisattva whose spirit travels to the lower six realms to help spirits suffering there.  He postponed Buddhahood and the opportunity to go to higher realms in order to help others who are suffering.  Very honorable.

Shinnyo-en and Buddhists are seeking world peace, something I want to play a small role in to lay the foundation so that my children’s children’s generation will achieve balance between good and evil, which is a challenge within each and every soul.  I dream that balance will be achieved within two generations from mine.