（HY from Aomori Prefecture/60’s/Male/ Office Worker）
The medical checkup found my cholesterol level too high. I was warned by the doctor that, if left untreated, I would be affected by arteriosclerosis and stricken with apoplexy.
In fear of my life, I reconsidered my way of life immediately, and decided to form the habit of having a vegetable-based diet and practice a moderate exercise.
A “man of few words” was my excuse
I used to feel that the meals my wife cooked were not my taste, and I didn’t express how I felt about them. I also labeled myself as a man of few words who is bad at expressing what he has in mind properly, which is a characteristic of many people born in my homeland. I thought I could do nothing about it― an excuse to not change myself.
However, as I learned the teachings of Kami, it brought home to me the importance of making conversations between the husband and the wife in order for each family member to lead a happy life.
A heart-warming family environment would anchor our feelings and make our kokoro healthy, enabling us to work positively. As I learned the teachings, I came to see the principle that happiness grows in the order of family→ health → work.
And to my own disbelief, as I reflected on my family, I realized we had been lacking in conversations.
Reflecting on my inconsideration, I took actions!
Though I felt embarrassed at first, I started to express my gratitude with words after eating the meals my wife cooked for me, saying, “That was really delicious! Thank you!”
As I kept this habit of expressing my gratitude to her, she came to show more of her consideration towards me. She prepared me meals that are better for my health. She even bought me a plate so that she could serve me several kinds of foods that are good for my health, each by a small amount on it. Thanks to the teachings, I have become more sensitive to her consideration and thoughtfulness in every count for my healthy being.
Considerate conversations lead us to a good health.
Little did I imagine that only a few words of “Thank you for the nice meal! That was very delicious!” would make my wife so happy.
The other day, I took the re-examination with a little anxiety. And how relieved I was to find my cholesterol level improved! Moreover, I take it as my treasure that 1 have been awakened to the importance of making conversations between the husband and the wife, which is the source of happiness. My life has changed completely. Now I am determined to live with a healthy kokoro, always with gratitude to my wife, and making conversations with her.