Word 069
Deep in the mountains of Yoshino, Yoshino Mikumari Shrine stands sheltered by ancient trees. Revered since long ago as the dwelling of the deity of water, this is a place the farming people of the region have looked to for generations.
Walking the stone-paved precinct, the sound of water reaches your ear from somewhere nearby. From the slope behind the main hall, a spring wells up without cease. It becomes a thin stream, sliding silently over moss-covered stones, slipping between rocks, and making its way down into the valley.
That stream joins a valley creek, and eventually becomes the Yoshino River, carrying its water all the way to the basin far below.
Ask yourself.
Are you pushing too hard and wearing yourself out?
"Contributing to Others" is not "Self-Sacrifice" or "Selfless Devotion."
Confusing the two leads to exhaustion — and, ironically, to lashing out at others and damaging relationships.
Truly, it becomes putting the cart before the horse.
First, fill yourself.
When you are fulfilled, you build an inner core — and only then can you truly "Contribute to Others."
You can ask yourself with a gentle voice — not to scold, but simply to notice.