Words to Live By

We recently had the honor of welcoming Gomonshu Kojun Ohtani to our temple. It was the second-last day of an arduous circuit for him up and down the West Coast, fulfilling responsibilities as our spiritual leader based at the head temple of Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha in Kyoto, Japan. He had spent over a week greeting Nembutsu followers, participating in the World Buddhist Women’s Convention in San Francisco, performing ceremonial duties and celebrating events such as the official opening of the Jodo Shinshu International Office and Nishi Betsuin’s anniversary, not to mention visiting the many temples of the Northwest and Southern Districts, and, of course, sharing the dharma.

Though the Monshu encountered thousands of people and surely must have been tired, we remarked with admiration that he was consistently attentive, responsive, and gracious. He had especially warm smiles for children, whom he clearly cares for. No doubt he missed his own little son and daughter. With a wish for the well-being of all, particularly for the benefit of the young and those who are embarking on this path, he recently presented four verses,titled “Our Pledge” as guidance for our everyday lives. The first verse reads:

I will share a warm smile and speak gentle words

Just like the kind Buddha.

Breaking out of my shell

Buddhism is about self-awareness. Reflect on specific moments, such as a typical Sunday at the temple. Do we offer a warm smile (if not a hug) and a greeting to everyone? How easy is it to pass someone without saying, “Good morning?” How easy it would be to brighten someone’s day and our own by doing so. Let’s speak gently, even if we disagree. Then we will be brought to know our interdependence. The second verse reminds us:

Not becoming lost in my greed, anger, and ignorance

I shall think and act with an open mind

Just like the calm and peaceful Buddha.

You will recognize in the first line the three poisons mentioned in the Four Noble Truths as the cause of our dukkha suffering. Though the poisons arise, we can be mindful of this fact and remember that we are all in this together, whether at our temple or in any aspect of our lives. Thinking this way, our perspective broadens and softens so that we don’t become lost in the darkness of brittle selfishness, but instead enjoy the perfect peace of oneness.

Not putting myself first

I will share in the joy and sadness of others

Just like the compassionate Buddha.

In any organization, even in a temple, there are many opinions. Maybe we don’t like a song we sing, or what we chant, or even the minister. Maybe it’s a menu or a fun activity that makes us grumble. We don’t have to miss out on the happiness of others—we’re so fortunate to have an inclusive sangha that wants everyone to participate. In a similar vein, let’s try not to be so wrapped up in our own concerns and desires that we are insensitive to difficulties that others may be experiencing. What affects one, affects all.

As we reflect on the first three verses, we can see that while they form a good roadmap to follow in our everyday lives, if we apply them to our specific thoughts, words and deeds, we can easily understand that it is impossible for us to perfectly accomplish them. Only a Buddha, one who has awakened to things as they are, including the reality of oneness, can be unconditionally kind, calm, peaceful, and compassionate. Thinking about our true nature in this light, we are brought to realize just how much kindness and compassion we receive from immeasurable life, imperfect though we are. With this in mind, the last verse might resonate within us, giving rise to a sense of gratitude that energizes us to fully appreciate all that we are and all that arises:

Realizing the gift of life I have received

I shall strive to live each day to its fullest

Like the Buddha who tirelessly works to liberate all.

It is in this realization that we are liberated. Then, through the conviction that blossoms within, we might lead others to this transcendent teaching of inner peace thanks to a way of being that was not achieved through our own calculations alone. My life and the Buddha’s life are one.

Namo Amida Butsu.

Gassho,

Rev. Patricia Usuki