Happy New Year Dec 2009

Happy New Year G Sakamoto and Family

As the new year opens up before us, there are many who continue to face the challenges of our times. Although things seem to be turning around, in the mean time there is still home and food and work to be concerned about. The forces at work seem so huge, beyond our control, that we may feel overwhelmed. In such times find someone to talk to. Talking may not resolve the crisis but it will help to put things in perspective. Becoming mindful of the importance of the relationships we share with the world around us can expand the focus of our attention and help us experience the life which sustains each of us. Sometimes we forget and need to be reminded that there are people around each of us who care.

Throughout Buddhism we are encouraged to see things as they are. Rather than looking at the world through our likes and dislikes, to be able to experience the world simply as it is. Seeing the world through likes and dislikes, creates opportunities for difficulties to arise. It is not a matter of not paying attention, but rather of being mindful of everything experienced.

As we experience difficulties we may forget about other things we are also experiencing, experiences that are important to who we are. We may loose site of experiences shared that helped us understand something. Or the friendship that was extended in an unexpected moment. Our lives contain these moments they do not feed us or clothe us but they do remind us of the connections we share with the world around us.

Amida is infinite wisdom, infinite compassion. As unenlightened beings it is difficult to recognize Amida. But in those experiences of kindness and compassion we catch glimpses of Amida and we simply respond in gratitude, namo amida butsu.

May we continue to deepen our appreciation of the life we share and the nembutsu. Happy new year everyone.