Lessons in Self-Reflection

 

When visiting a temple or shrine in Japan, one may encounter a monthly slogan displayed on a bulletin board within the premises. Recently, a particular motto at a shrine I visited resonated with me: “Reflection: When you are arrogant, you will be abandoned by God. When you are greedy, you will be turned away by money. When you are jealous, you will not have friends. When you are angry, you will lose yourself.” Given the sacred setting, each word of the motto carries profound weight, touching my heart deeply. While reflections on the importance of self-assessment are often imparted by parents and teachers during childhood, as adults, we rarely encounter such reminders. Nevertheless, I believe that dedicating time to self-reflection as part of a daily routine is crucial for personal growth rooted in positive thinking.

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