(KI from Tokyo Prefecture/60s/Female/Part-Time Worker)
Every time we bought a new car, we got into accidents. This happened three times in a row. Fortunately, we didn’t get injured. But as for two cases out of the three, it was my husband that was driving. At first, I decided these accidents were to be attributed to him. But with the third accident, I started to think that the cause of the accidents was not only with him, but it was the problem of our entire family.
Although I Was Only Blaming Him
As I learned the teachings of Kami, I came to realize the fact that I was not able to see myself at all, whereas I could see the shortcomings of others. It hit me, because I used to feel confident that I was practicing the teachings most in my family, but I found it was my misunderstanding.
I’d always thought that my husband, though good-natured, was a bit awkward and childish, leaving everything to me. And I’d also thought I’d been leading our family. Thus my heart had been full of dissatisfaction against him, until I complained to him, “Help me with our household chores.” And his reply was, “I always want to, but I cannot, because you’re too meticulous and demanding.” This hit me, because I realized that I was making my family environment disharmonious from my own accord, not cherishing the thoughts of my husband and our child.
I Gradually Came to See My Husband’s Good Points and My Family Members’ Kokoro
Then one day after that, I injured my right shoulder and underwent surgery. When I was discharged and went back home―completely unable to move my right hand―I was surprised with a scenery I’d never seen―I saw him doing household chores for the first time. As he was doing it so awkwardly, I laughed and smiled, but really appreciated it. If I had been what I used to be, I must have complained a lot about the way he did it.
I also felt grateful that my daughter was considerate enough to help us do the household chores positively before I’d overexert myself and take actions. I was really moved that my families supported me quite naturally, making my heart so warm as if spring had come my way.
My husband cares for his grandchildren well, as if they were his real children. I came to see a lot of good points about him―he is acceptable to others’ hearts, without letting them mind him. It was only recently that I realized my son resembles him and has a mild nature. Until then, I am ashamed to say that I thought he’s like me.
Experiencing the Significance of the 20th Anniversary of the Birth of Shinkon
In fact, my husband and I had always been discordant. I have walked the path of shinja for 40 years, hoping that by the end of my life, I will show our children what a good couple their parents are. I feel like I’ve reached 70% of that goal.
I am convinced that the fact that I could see my correction points in the wake of the accidents is Kami’s salvation and love. This year―the 20th anniversary of the birth of Shinkon―I have experienced a great deal of awareness and joy. I’m determined to walk my life with a firm conviction to live by the teachings, without being complacent.
Heeding the Shinji to Understand the Reasons for the Joys Experienced
Shinji is the universal principle (truth), and can also be the guidance of life that foresees the future. Please feel the wonders of a life that flows exactly in a way the Shinji tells us when you live with the teachings of Kami.
Shinji
Human beings are an existence who naturally loves their families and deepens their gratitude when they gain understanding of the principles.
The principles bring the kokoro of the families together as one, fostering persons who acquire and live with love that is the truth.
The kokoro(unmei) of human beings is honed and their jittai is elevated in a home where the principles are abided by.