Word 084
East of Todai-ji, past Nigatsu-do and further up the hillside, the path leads to Tamukeyama Hachimangu, tucked among the trees. In deep summer green, the approach is filled with nothing but the sound of cicadas.
Tall trees reach out from both sides, casting a cool shade over the entire precinct. Whether someone pauses to look up or simply walks by, the trees keep the same leaves, sharing the same shade.
Standing before the hall with hands together, I glanced down at the dappled light at my feet. The trees have likely stood this way for centuries — not for thanks, not to be noticed, simply standing quietly here again today.
If someone close to you opposes what you are trying to do,
① First, stand beside them with the spirit of Give & Given — give, and you shall be given.
② Next, quietly show your commitment to your path through your own actions.
③ Then, when the moment and the opportunity are ripe, share your thoughts with them.
④ Even if they do not come to understand, never blame them — and repeat steps ① through ③.
Even after leaving Tamukeyama, the coolness of that dappled light seemed to stay on my shoulders a while longer.