A non-native English-speaking Japanese retiree invigorates and uplifts others through encouragement and diverse perspectives by sharing insightful thoughts on life and current topics.
Eyes Wide Open
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Nature
is a superb artist that unveils the beauty of all beings and creations. If we
consciously observe our surroundings, we will be able to discover an abundance
of beauty.
When I write essays, a daily routine for me, I often feel as though I am conversing with another version of myself—one that offers me advice. On closer reflection, I realize this advice is shaped by what I have learned from books, mentors, and my own past experiences. In a sense, my present self simply lives day by day without much wisdom to rely on, while this other self reaches into memory, retrieves lessons, and presents them as guidance. It feels almost like the relationship between a computer’s memory and hard drive: one draws out and supplies what the other needs. Yet, there is something to be mindful of. If we consciously nurture this inner dialogue to bring out positive insights, it can protect and guide us. But if we allow it to unconsciously pull forth negative thoughts, it may instead work against us.
It is easy to say we should distance ourselves from people we dislike, but when avoidance is impossible, the situation can feel almost tragic. Yet, even such relationships offer valuable lessons. Rather than being superficial, we can sometimes ease tension by considering the other person’s position—as well as the perspectives of those who support them—and by facing them without outright denial but with a broader, higher outlook. Because difficult people stand out so clearly, they challenge us to raise our own awareness. This is easier said than done, but worth attempting with calmness. When we succeed, our sense of difficulty diminishes, and the experience becomes a resource for handling other challenging relationships.
Most people are easily motivated by immediate gains or losses. However, even when we tell ourselves that we are dedicating our time selflessly, without expecting anything in return, and striving to accumulate virtue, sustaining such motivation without a visible endpoint is far from easy. If we push ourselves too hard, we simply cannot continue. Therefore, we must act within reasonable limits, guided by wisdom and ingenuity.