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Nurturing Growth Through Open-Mindedness:

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As we grow older, we tend to accumulate more knowledge and experiences (and often gain weight as well). However, if we overly rely on these criteria for making judgments, we can sometimes fall into the trap of prejudice because our knowledge and experiences are inherently limited. In such cases, if we have already cultivated an open-minded and genuine approach, we can perceive new things without being bound by preconceived notions or prejudices based on past knowledge and experiences. By doing so, we can make further personal progress and enrich our lives. The late Mr. Konosuke Matsushita, the founder of PANASONIC, referred to this state of being as "Sunaona Kokoro" in Japanese, which translates to "a heart like sand." It is a concept I deeply resonate with. By maintaining a willingness to continually learn new things, I believe that the opportunities for growth and learning are infinite, regardless of our age.

Balancing Physical and Mental Wealth for a Fulfilling Life

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Simply put, there are two types of assets that contribute to a fulfilling life. The first type encompasses physical assets that can be obtained or converted into money. The second type consists of mental assets such as compassion, empathy, respect, and other qualities that money cannot buy. To achieve happiness and meet the various levels of human needs, both types of assets are not only essential but also need to be balanced appropriately. Furthermore, increasing physical assets requires conscious investment in something with the potential for returns. In contrast, when it comes to mental assets, we invest in important aspects of our humanity without expecting any specific returns. These principles apply not only to human life but have also been demonstrated by many well-established and successful businesses in the corporate world.

A Fresh Perspective from the Ground

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When I lie on the ground, I experience a unique sensation of the sky and the ground coming closer together. It also instills in me a profound connection to the natural environment surrounding me. This phenomenon hints at the idea that familiar objects or landscapes can appear different depending on the perspective from which they are observed. I highly recommend trying this practice if you have the opportunity, as it can be a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. By lying on the ground, we gain a fresh perspective and a renewed appreciation for our surroundings. It allows us to break away from our usual vantage point and immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature. Whether it's the sensation of the grass beneath us, the vastness of the sky above, or the intricate details of the world at our feet, this simple act can awaken our senses and provide a moment of tranquility and connection. So, whenever time permits, I encourage you to give it a try. Find a comfortable spot, lie down, an

The Power of Accumulated Knowledge

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Looking back, I firmly believe that the gradual accumulation of knowledge and experience over time serves as a significant driving force for making a substantial difference in both life and work. Following this fundamental principle, I strive to maintain this beneficial habit even in my retirement years. The continuous pursuit of learning and the accumulation of wisdom not only enrich our understanding of the world but also equip us with valuable insights and skills. It is through this ongoing process that we expand our horizons, develop new perspectives, and gain the necessary tools to navigate life's challenges. Retirement does not mark the end of personal growth or the acquisition of knowledge. On the contrary, it presents an opportunity to delve deeper into areas of interest, explore new subjects, and engage in lifelong learning. By nurturing this habit, we can continue to make a positive impact, contribute to our communities, and find fulfillment in our pursuits.

Ensuring National Security in the Face of Escalating Threats

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In this region, people have grown accustomed to hearing breaking news reports about the ominous developments taking place in neighboring areas. However, recently, they have begun to sense an escalating reality that poses a potential threat. In light of this situation, it has been empirically substantiated that maintaining national security requires careful consideration of the following key factors: 1) Maintaining a balance of power among nations in the region. 2) Forming strong alliances with powerful partners. 3) Promoting democracy within the region. 4) Giving due importance to the intervention of international organizations. 5) Facilitating trade and investment among nations in the region.

Lessons from the Dragonfly: Embracing the Unpredictability of Life

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As a child, I vividly remember reaching out to catch a dragonfly, only to have it sense my presence and swiftly fly away. Now, as an elderly adult, I have long lost interest in insect collecting. However, there are moments when a dragonfly comes near me. This serves as a powerful reminder of life itself. Life, much like the flight of a dragonfly, is utterly beyond our control. No matter how much we plan, anticipate, or strive for certain outcomes, life has a way of unfolding in its own mysterious and unpredictable manner. Just as the dragonfly eludes our grasp, life often evades our attempts to fully grasp or control it. It reminds us of the inherent uncertainty and unpredictability that exists within our existence. While we may not have control over the circumstances that life presents us, we can learn to embrace the beauty and wonder of the unknown. We can find solace in accepting that life's journey is filled with moments that are beyond our control, and that it is in those mome

Embracing the Essence of Time

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As we age, it's common to feel that time is slipping away faster, akin to sand in an hourglass. In this late stage of life, I find myself increasingly resonating with the wisdom shared by three distinguished figures: Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein, and Indira Gandhi. Franklin wisely said, "Do you love life? Then do not waste time, for that is what life is made of." Einstein emphasized the significance of curiosity, stating, "Curiosity has its own reason for existing." Gandhi encouraged us to pursue lifelong learning, advising, "Learn as if you were to live forever." Guided by these teachings, I strive to embrace the practice of making every day count. By valuing time, nurturing curiosity, and embracing continuous learning, I aim to fully appreciate and engage with the precious gift of life.