Posts

Human Brain Mysteries

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  The human brain is a fascinating and mysterious organ. One intriguing aspect is the phenomenon of sudden inspiration. These flashes of insight often occur unexpectedly and without warning. Because inspiration can be fleeting, it is essential to act on these ideas immediately or, if immediate action is not possible, to record them in writing. By doing so, we ensure that valuable thoughts are not lost to the impermanence of short-term memory. Another remarkable characteristic of the brain is its preference for experiences that enrich learning and create lasting memories. For instance, people often choose to invest in activities like traveling, which provide opportunities to break away from the monotony of everyday life. Visiting extraordinary places offers a sense of freedom and wonder that lingers in our long-term memory. These memories can be vividly recalled, allowing us to relive the experiences as nostalgic stories, full of the emotions and discoveries of those moments. Additi...
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One Good Deed

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  More than half a century ago, when I was still in elementary school, there was a piece of paper posted in the classroom with the motto: “One good deed a day.” This simple phrase encapsulates a core principle of Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of accumulating virtue through daily acts of kindness—a fundamental path for human growth and connection. Looking back on my long life, I regret not consistently living by this philosophy. Its wisdom, however, resonates with me more deeply now than ever. Despite my age, I feel a renewed determination to embrace this practice, to make a conscious effort to perform one good deed each day. It is never too late to walk a path of kindness and purpose.
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Understanding Brain Functions

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  Understanding our own consciousness and brain functions can be challenging because the brain and consciousness are intrinsically interconnected. This connection makes it almost impossible to objectively analyze brain functions and their characteristics. To illustrate, when we are too accustomed to viewing an object up close, we fail to consider its overall shape or structure. Similarly, we seldom pause to reflect on how our brain operates unless we consciously step back to observe it from a broader perspective. When we take that figurative step back, we begin to notice patterns and tendencies in how our brain functions. For instance, the brain often accepts the first piece of information it encounters about something unfamiliar as correct. This tendency highlights the brain's natural inclination towards efficiency and expedience, albeit sometimes at the cost of accuracy. Additionally, it is well-documented that the right and left hemispheres of the brain each have distinct functi...
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Retirement Reflections

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  Retirement marks a significant turning point in life, offering an opportunity for profound transformation in our daily routines and perspectives. In my own experience, retirement brought about a newfound awareness and appreciation for the natural world around me. For instance, I began to notice the flowers blooming outside and became attuned to the subtle changes in nature that had previously escaped my attention. Such sensitivity to my surroundings was unimaginable during my working years. In Japan, there is a saying that suggests one’s position and environment shape a person, and I find this to be particularly true of retirement. The shift from a structured work life to the unstructured freedom of retirement reshaped my perspective in unexpected ways. It allowed me to reflect on the wisdom shared by older generations—wisdom I had often dismissed when I was younger. Looking back, I realize that these lessons, though once overlooked, hold profound truths that resonate more deeply...
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Valuing Life's Encounters

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  The number of people we meet in our lifetime is incredibly small compared to the world’s population of over 8 billion. With this perspective, if we view the individuals we encounter as inevitable rather than coincidental and assign meaning to these connections, we can cherish them more deeply. Such an approach allows us to learn from our relationships and enrich our lives in profound ways. History shows that many successful individuals have seized great opportunities through these limited encounters. However, finding life-changing connections, such as mentors, rarely happens by chance. It often requires effort and intention to seek them out. In today’s interconnected world, meeting people no longer depends solely on physical proximity. Social media has made it possible to connect across oceans and borders, opening doors to diverse and meaningful relationships. Regardless of how these connections are made, it is vital to value and nurture them.
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The Journey of Lifelong Learning

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  Life is full of depth, and some truths and lessons reveal themselves only in the later stages of life, such as in one's 60s, 70s, or beyond. Opportunities for personal growth and learning do not end with retirement; instead, they flourish through lifelong learning as one delves deeper into areas of interest and explores new fields. Beyond personal growth, certain societal issues, such as peace—often taken for granted—require sustained, long-term investment. Education stands out as one of the most critical tools for achieving this. A more proactive approach to lifelong education is essential for stabilizing the social infrastructure and navigating challenges of the future.
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Lessons from Experience

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  Life is a journey of challenges and growth, and many young people today find themselves in tough positions, much like the struggles we have faced in the past. These shared experiences hold immense value, as they can guide the next generation by offering lessons learned through perseverance and resilience. Anyone who has lived a long life, whether as a good or poor role model, possesses the potential to become a storyteller, sharing insights that inspire and empower others. Young people often look for guidance and wisdom from those who have navigated similar paths. They are eager to hear about the struggles, mistakes, and triumphs that shaped the lives of those who came before them. However, it is crucial to approach this role of storytelling with humility and awareness. Relying too heavily on past knowledge and experiences without considering the nuances of current situations can lead to assumptions that may not hold true in today’s context. It is important to recognize that ever...
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