A Journey through My Diverse Perspectives

  We often approach things in a complex manner, and the more intricately we ponder them, the greater our concern about what steps to take, where to commence, and whether we can meet deadlines. In the most probable scenario, this leads to an increased burden on our minds and bodies. Therefore, it is crucial to grasp the essence of matters. This involves simplifying initially complex aspects as much as possible and reevaluating them at both elemental and structural levels. During this process, when dealing with only textual information, the overall structure may become unclear and challenging to comprehend. To address this, it proves effective to integrate charts, placing emphasis on logical connections and numerical figures. By simplifying matters in this manner, we gain the ability to perceive the essence, enhance work efficiency, improve problem-solving skills, and significantly alleviate stress. Nevertheless, achieving this level of simplification demands skill and a certain period o

  Katsuya Nomura (1935-2020), who was raised in a family marked by extreme poverty and carried a sense of inferiority, earned acclaim as one of the top players and managers in Japanese baseball. He left behind a legacy of many renowned quotes, one of which reads: “It's not that there are 'good people' and 'bad people,' but rather, there are only 'weak people.'” This quote conveys the idea that inherent weakness exists within all individuals, and whether they can transcend this "weakness" ultimately hinges on their own will and daily actions. It serves as an illustration of how anyone can mold themselves into the person they aspire to be. Recognizing that even those who appear to lead smooth lives and possess physical and mental strength are, in reality, susceptible to weakness like ourselves, we should concentrate on overcoming our own shortcomings rather than harboring envy. This realization makes the process of self-improvement more attainable.

  There are often differences in the way we perceive the same thing when we experience it through our own five senses and thoughts compared to when we perceive it through another person's five senses and thoughts. These differences are particularly noticeable, especially among individuals who were born and raised in different cultures. If we are willing to break free from being confined by our own ideas, these differences can make us aware of new perspectives and ways of thinking that we might not have considered. This can greatly benefit our personal growth. However, if we find ourselves stuck in our own narrow way of thinking, we may unconsciously miss out on opportunities for self-growth. To eliminate fixed ideas and preconceptions and to foster flexibility in our thinking, we need to develop the mindset required for such flexibility through engaging in a dialogue with ourselves. This helps us accept viewpoints and ways of thinking that differ from our own without hesitation and

The Japanese thinker Tempu Nakamura (1876-1968) once shared his perspective on the power of words: "The words we use have the power to shape our lives. It is this awareness that guides life towards victory, making it the best weapon." Additionally, he emphasized the importance of using positive words: "Those who consistently use kind words, words that encourage others, and words that bring joy to people—individuals who use only such words, even without consciously trying, are naturally those who share happiness with others." If these ideas are true, there is no reason not to consciously use such words in conversations with those around us and in our own self-talk for a virtuous cycle of society made up of us and other people.

  I like the sound of the word “ Dojo ” ( 道場 ). The term “ Dojo ” originally translated to the Vajra seat (Badhimanda) beneath the Bodhi tree, where Buddha attained enlightenment. It appears to have been the original name for a place of Buddhist training in Japan. It is noted that during Japan's Meiji period (1868-1912), martial arts training halls began to be commonly referred to as “ Budojo ” ( 武道場 ) and eventually shortened to “ Dojo. ” Presently, the term “ Dojo ” is widely used to describe the arena itself, encompassing education related to human resource development. In essence, it can be stated that a “Dojo” is now a place for self-improvement training, irrespective of time or location, depending on individual intent. Personally, the X platform has evolved into a training ground, much like a “Dojo,” that consistently keeps me motivated. I can only express gratitude to everyone who takes the time to read my messages on this platform.

  There is a quote by the Japanese thinker Tempu Nakamura (1876-1968): “The emphasis is on applying force rather than putting emphasis on exerting force.” In connection to this, during my high school sports days, I sometimes received advice from coaches who would say, “You're pushing too hard. You should loosen up and be more natural.” Reflecting on those times, I once again realized that the term “natural state” refers to a condition where the emphasis is placed on applying force. Tempu Nakamura also stated, “Both the mind and body are tools.” This implies that discovering a method to use your mind and body that suits you, and refining and mastering your skills to make them function effectively, is crucial not only for people and society but also for your personal development. This clearly emphasizes the importance of being natural and avoiding excessive strain in order to use tools effectively and maximize your strength.

  Recently, I have frequently found myself struggling to come up with ideas when writing short essays. It has been almost 19 months since I began composing short essays almost every day, and I sense that I have exhausted all the themes that initially came to mind. Typically, the theme is chosen based on a simple "inspiration" that suddenly pops into my head. "Inspiration" strikes unexpectedly, and we cannot control its emergence. So, how can we harness the power of "inspiration"? From my experience, the key factor in triggering "inspiration" appears to be gaining stimulation by incorporating new information, knowledge, and experiences into our minds. In other words, by absorbing new INPUT from the five human senses and stimulating the mind with sensitivity, "inspiration" or unconscious PROCESS is activated, resulting in a new theme as OUTPUT. This OUTPUT is akin to a flash of light, so if we fail to take notes, we may quickly forget it.

  Sadaharu Oh, the home run king of Japanese baseball and later hailed as a great manager, once said, “When a team or a person grows, they don't just move up at a 45-degree angle. It gradually rises until you can't see it, and then takes a sharp curve in the middle. Even during those gradual stages, as a manager, it's important to be patient and keep waiting.” This concept aligns with the "learning curve" in the education field and the "growth curve" in the product life cycle of the marketing field. It necessitates a significant amount of effort and continuous ingenuity. Regarding this, Mr. Sadaharu Oh also emphasized, "Effort is always rewarded. If there is effort that goes unrewarded, it cannot truly be called effort." At first glance, these words may seem harsh. However, Sadaharu Oh, who endured many slumps in his baseball career, consistently made efforts to bridge the gap between ideals and reality, achieving his goals repeatedly. These wo

  The Japanese thinker Tempu Nakamura (1876-1968) once expressed his perspective on how things should be perceived and contemplated: “Examine things from both external and internal perspectives. To express it academically, engage in both scientific and philosophical thinking simultaneously. When you focus solely on philosophical thought, scientific thinking may be overlooked, and conversely, an exclusive emphasis on scientific thinking may neglect philosophical considerations.” Both science and philosophy are academic disciplines aimed at exploring the truth. However, while science seeks to “explore the world of facts,” philosophy delves into the “world of meaning” that aids humans in leading better lives. Therefore, it holds true that science should be advanced based on philosophy that aligns with it. As technological innovation in the scientific field, including AI, advances rapidly, it becomes imperative for philosophy to progress in tandem with these developments.

  T he key to the survival strategy of seed plants lies in the production of conspicuous and beautiful flowers, which are pollinated by the wind, nectar-seeking insects, and animals. This process leads to the formation of seeds and the generation of offspring. As a result, each flower is intricately designed. Human fascination with beautiful flowers unwittingly aligns with the survival strategies of seed plants. Individuals often replicate this strategy by replanting flowering seed plants in their gardens or cultivating them from seeds. Through these actions, we gain insight into a segment of the symbiotic system among living organisms, wherein humans also play a role.

  Nakamura Tempu (1876-1968), a Japanese inspirational thinker, once expressed that the contemporary focus on knowledge frequently overlooks the development of cognitive abilities, resulting in difficulties in distinguishing accurate information and impeding the practical application of knowledge for a gratifying life. In this context, cognition denotes the capacity to perceive things clearly and make decisions. Alternatively, it signifies the mind's capability to distinctly discern things, acquire knowledge, make judgments, and act upon the information. For instance, when confronted with the same set of facts such as surrounding situations and people's words and actions, individuals may have varying perceptions. This discrepancy can be attributed to differences in the quality of recognition. In essence, cognitive ability can be understood as the proficiency to contemplate deeply from multiple perspectives using one's own intellect.

  Reflecting on my time at work, I've noticed that individuals who proactively sought guidance from their superiors, colleagues, and external experts to comprehend unfamiliar concepts were able to consistently acquire and showcase their skills. Nakamura Tempu (1876-1968), a Japanese inspirational thinker, martial artist, and founder of Japanese-style yoga, once shared, “The distinction between individuals who become great and those who don't arises because, even when exposed to the same narrative, their manner of listening and receptiveness differs significantly. The only discernible difference lies in how they apply what they receive to their own lives.” This quote precisely echoes what I have observed throughout my professional experience.

  When written in Japanese characters (Kanji), “ Arigatou ( 有難う ) ” literally translates to “ It's difficult to do something. ” In other words, it means “ It's very rare. ” It is said that this word originally came from a story about Buddha in Buddhist scriptures. Buddha told his disciple that it is extremely difficult for us to be born as a human and still exist in this world probabilistically, and Arigatou is a way of expressing gratitude for something as miraculous as that. From the perspective of brain science, it is said that gratitude has physical benefits, such as improving immunity, alleviating pain, and lowering blood pressure. Psychological benefits include increasing positive emotions, fostering optimism, and creating a sense of happiness. Furthermore, social effects, such as helping others, becoming more tolerant and benevolent, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness, and increasing extroversion, have been observed. Expressing gratitude through our respect

  About six years ago, I visited the town where I had lived in the past for the first time in 30 years. The town had undergone a complete transformation, and it seemed like the number of cars and buildings had significantly increased. As I strolled through the town, memories from 30 years ago flooded back, and I couldn't help but reminisce about the past. Despite the substantial changes, there were still fragments of places that had remained untouched, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia. Nevertheless, even though the overall appearance of the town had undergone a drastic transformation, my own consciousness remained unchanged from 30 years ago. This created a feeling of being left behind in the flow of time, and I keenly felt the weight of the 30 years that had elapsed since my last visit. It was as if I had stepped into a time capsule. The memories in my mind were stuck in the past, 30 years ago, while the town I stood in had moved forward, ticking away in the present. Within the

  In general, human beings tend to be somewhat egotistical. While engaged in work, our thoughts often revolve around our desires for leisure activities in our free time. However, upon retirement, we find ourselves liberated to pursue various activities, albeit with certain restrictions. Despite this newfound freedom, there may be confusion about how to fill the available free time. When faced with limited options, we actively seek alternatives; conversely, when presented with numerous choices, decision-making becomes challenging. If we possess clear purposes, goals (vectors), or a sense of meaning regarding our post-retirement activities, the decision-making process is likely to be less troublesome.

  If we use our imagination in our heads, we can go anywhere. However, our actual bodies are here now, not where we imagine it to be. If we want to actually go to the place we've imagined in our heads and we're using existing means of transportation, we'll need to do some research and planning. If it is not possible to get there using existing means of transportation, it is necessary to develop new means of transportation. In either case, a procedure is required to turn the imagination of thought into reality. In that sense, the mind is all-mighty, and the body has various limitations. Still, using means that complement the body to move according to the thoughts in the head, in other words, to realize the thoughts, seems like living itself.

  In Japan, there is a proverb that states, "Great players don't necessarily become great coaches." While this sentiment may not be universally applicable to all exceptional players, it tends to reflect an understandable trend. Former outstanding players often find themselves inclined to assess current players in comparison to their playing days. Consequently, these former stars may inadvertently undervalue the capabilities and potential of present-day players. This situation leaves the current players with limited opportunities for growth and improvement, as the onus is placed entirely on them. Sun Tzu, in his renowned work "The Art of War," imparts the wisdom: "Those who fight well do not look for momentum and blame others. Therefore, choose those who are capable and do not rely on momentum." A skilled commander seeks to lead without seeking external momentum, emphasizing the selection of capable individuals rather than depending on external factors.

  In life, everyone experiences ups and downs. The duration of facing the dark tunnel of hardship can vary based on the circumstances. Some individuals find themselves unable to navigate through this tunnel of difficulty for an extended period, perhaps spanning more than a decade. It would be insensitive to casually tell them phrases like "There is no rain that doesn’t stop" or "After a night comes a day." Drawing from my own painful yet invaluable experiences, I've come to understand that "The longer the tunnel of hardship, the greater the happiness that comes after." Therefore, the advice I can offer is this: "Although it may be challenging, regardless of how many years you have been in the darkness of the tunnel, if you persist in keeping your hope alive and moving forward, you will undoubtedly emerge from the tunnel eventually and discover profound happiness."

  When I take solitary walks, generating ideas for short essays seems rather effortless. However, when I walk with someone, despite the pleasant company, it becomes challenging to delve into my thoughts effectively. Nevertheless, when I brainstorm while walking alongside a like-minded companion, the collaborative effort often leads to heightened imagination and superior outcomes compared to solitary thinking. Essentially, solitary walks serve as a catalyst for sparking initial ideas. Conversely, the process of elaborating on these ideas and formulating a detailed plan appears more fruitful through collective brainstorming than when done individually. This morning's walk unexpectedly led to a productive brainstorming session with my wife, resulting in a concrete and detailed idea. It was an unplanned occurrence that reinforced my realization about the efficacy of collaborative idea generation.

  In our pursuit of an efficient life, setbacks are inevitable, disrupting our smooth sail. Nevertheless, embracing a mindset open to learning can transform these setbacks into invaluable experiences rather than wasted time. Particularly in later years, major setbacks can significantly impact our resilience and the duration needed for recovery. Hence, it becomes crucial to encounter and navigate failures multiple times in youth, experiencing the efforts required for recovery and remembering these efforts. This helps ensure that we don't inadvertently take big risks in life after retirement.

  No matter where one begins, failure or setbacks are never the desired outcomes. Yet, everyone inevitably encounters repeated failures and setbacks in life. In such moments, the wisdom of Ryokan Ara (1928-2019), the Japanese Archbishop of Tendai Buddhism, resonates: “Learn from your mistakes, grow stronger from misfortunes, and understand that nothing in life is futile.” This philosophy echoes the adage “Don't be afraid to fail; be afraid not to try.” It emphasizes the missed golden opportunities to glean valuable lessons from mistakes and to emerge stronger from setbacks or misfortunes.

  In Japan, an ancient idiom known as "to let the water carry it away" or "to wash away" embodies the concept of forgiving and forgetting, signifying the act of cleansing away past misfortunes without reproach. Its origins trace back to the traditional rice farming culture of the country. Rice cultivation was a communal effort in rural villages where people collectively managed the water supply to the rice paddies. During times when families faced insufficient labor for planting or harvesting rice, rural inhabitants would offer mutual assistance. Upholding a harmonious rural community depended on fostering a sense of "mutual respect." Even when conflicts arose within these villages, residents aimed for mutual compromise and reconciliation. This ethos forms the foundation of the "to let the water carry it away" expression, emphasizing the value of serene human relationships as a virtue.

  In contemporary society, many individuals seek extraordinary experiences by relying on financial resources. These experiences often involve extravagant trips or luxurious dining, providing a temporary escape from routine. While occasional indulgence is acceptable, it's impractical for most due to financial constraints and other limitations. The pursuit of such extravagance might indicate our inclination towards a futuristic lifestyle. However, embracing small, mundane discoveries and appreciating the often-overlooked aspects of daily life can evoke a sense of wonder and anchor us in the present. This shift in perspective doesn't necessitate substantial financial investment. It underscores the significance of spiritual wealth in fostering a grounded existence in the present moment.

Ryoyu Kurasawa, the head priest of a Buddhist temple in Haguroyama, Japan, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced supply of nutrients for both the body and the mind as essential for human living. He advocates for achieving good health, not just physically but also mentally, by ensuring this equilibrium. Kurasawa believes that nurturing the soul involves fostering an environment of quietness, cleanliness, and simplicity. He asserts that in silence, one can connect with the rhythms of nature, sensing the pulse of life and experiencing the fragrant essence of trees, which in turn restores inner peace. Additionally, entering a clean environment has a purifying effect on the heart, providing a sense of cleanliness and clarity. Simplicity, according to Kurasawa, contributes significantly to peace of mind. These spiritual nourishments, as he describes them, offer the strength necessary for life's journey. Many temples across Japan encapsulate such environments designed to nou

The other day, I tuned in to a live press conference following a major accident in Japan. The officials, representing the relevant authorities, responded to inquiries from Japanese reporters based on the limited information available from the authorities’ secretariat. However, many of their responses deferred to future confirmation, unable to provide conclusive details. Regrettably, numerous reporters persisted in seeking confirmation on aspects that were currently ambiguous and unattainable at this stage. The pressing concerns of the public, such as grasping the overall situation of the accident, forthcoming investigation procedures to determine its cause, and immediate actions concerning those affected, were challenging to glean from this session. This event underscored the importance of refining the skills of those asking questions, emphasizing the need for higher-quality inquiries that focus on problem-solving perspectives.

Japanese saws function by cutting wood when pulled, similar to planes also designed for pulling action. Conversely, Western saws and planes generally operate in the opposite manner. This variance is attributed to hypotheses surrounding the wood's hardness utilized in processing. Moreover, in Japan, tools like “Katana” (Japanese) and swords (Western), brooms, vacuum cleaners, and house doors are engineered to function optimally through pulling, while the reverse is true in the West. These disparities in design philosophy likely stem from differing perspectives, values, and cultural influences, possibly extending to language and behavior. Regardless, the uniqueness of these differences serves as an intriguing factor, fostering learning opportunities and a broader understanding of diverse perspectives and practices.

  The Japanese proverb "Good fortune and happiness come in by a cheerful home" is expressed as "Laughter is the key to happiness." This conveys the idea that being cheerful attracts happiness. It suggests that even amidst sadness or pain, maintaining hope can lead to eventual happiness. Smiling not only brings peace of mind and mental stability but also creates a lively impression, signaling openness and trust, facilitating better relationships. Considering these aspects, there's ample reason to embrace this proverb. Reflecting on my past, I realize I haven't smiled enough. Hence, I aim to practice smiling warmly, aspiring to become a kind old gentleman.

  The appearance of individuals dedicated to working diligently while upholding social missions or responsibilities, selflessly, is truly remarkable. Personally, I am occasionally moved by witnessing individuals exerting themselves conscientiously and responsibly even when no one is observing them. Undoubtedly, these individuals might grapple with various concerns and internal conflicts, yet these struggles are not evident from their appearance. Intuitively grasping this, I am once again reminded that society thrives due to the contribution of many such individuals. Perhaps this illustrates the inherent value of humans, who exist as social beings, reliant on group interactions. My realization arose while observing people during my morning walks.

  The Archbishop of Tendai Buddhism, Ryokan Ara (1928-2019), once shared a profound insight: "When one's mind-heart is not firmly fixed or established, one can be deceived by people's words, leading to one's stumbling." Despite searching online for an explicit explanation of what it means for the mind-heart to be firmly fixed or established, I couldn't find a precise definition. From my own understanding, individuals with a firmly fixed or established mind-heart resemble wise individuals who possess sound judgment. These wise individuals actively seek information from various perspectives through their actions, engage in independent thinking, learn from numerous mistakes, and exhibit experience and rationality. These traits are precisely what an information society, filled with myriad conflicting perspectives, demands.

  Both Japanese sayings, "The daily plan should be made in the morning" and "The year's plan should be made on New Year's Day," underscore the crucial importance of beginnings. They both advocate that commencing anything with a clear goal, a practical plan, and an unwavering commitment from the outset leads to self-sufficiency and enables us to mold our lives according to our aspirations.

  Procrastination stands out as one of the most detrimental habits, impeding the pursuit of a productive life. It tends to affect tasks that stray from our daily routines and lack immediate urgency, irrespective of our familiarity with handling them. In essence, such tasks often carry negative connotations in our subconscious, appearing burdensome or troublesome. To combat this habit of procrastination, engaging in positive visualization—mentally projecting ourselves completing tasks promptly—can effectively dispel these negative perceptions. By vividly envisioning the task's completion, we generate mental images that guide our actions without delay. Once these visualizations are clear and compelling, translating them into immediate action becomes natural. In this state, concerns about the task dissolve, allowing our body to instinctively proceed with the task at hand. Upon accomplishing the task, a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction resonates, aligning with our initial imaginat