Do not resent the world and become self-absorbed, do not run from it, but rather exist within world, transcend it, and live cheerfully. A way of life like that of the lotus flower that blossoms in the mud is precisely the way of life that we seek.

The lotus never blossoms in clean water. The lotus grows in the mud, but the flowers that it blooms are clean and untainted by mud. Dare to neither hate the mud nor fear it. It’s a matter of not running away from either pollution or darkness. The lotus, which purifies itself from within and blooms a unique flower despite sipping the muddy water, is the model for how to live our lives.

It is no exaggeration to say that during those three years of pandemic, humanity witnessed hell on earth. But even if this is hell, I want to be like the lotus plant-not escaping from the mud, not colored by the mud, putting forth my own unique flower-and live in harmony with others. Beneath the mud, our roots are interconnected.

To all who are suffering, I hope you will read this book thoughtfully. I am sure it will help you awaken, and wondrously bring peace to your heart.



To-ji Temple, the Head Temple of the Shingon Sect

Ninryo Yamada