Q My Parents were Scammed, and I am Worried about Them

My parents used a contractor that was recommended, but later found out that the repair was a scam. My parents always discuss everything, but this time my father decided this on his own. How can I protect my parents from scams? (Female in her 50s)

There is a way of life that helps you avoid not only scams, but also a way of life that can protect your loved ones from illness, accidents, and disasters. That is to build a warm family where husbands and wives, as well as the parents and children, understand each other’s roles and positions, supporting one another.

Even if you are worried about your elderly parents, saying things like “You have to be careful!” with an upsetting tone is not the way a child should act. Accept your parents’ feelings and empathize by saying things like “I’m sure you didn’t expect something like this to happen…” or be there for them by saying things like “Hope you feel better,” or “I’ll come out to your place a little more, so let’s be careful together.” Speak to them in a way that will put their minds at ease.

Like this, it is important to build a relationship where you can talk about anything with consideration for each other daily, while keeping your position in mind at all times. The more you feel the love of your family, the more stable your kokoro will be. You will not be overwhelmed by words or actions that stir up anxiety or greed. Because you will be able to respond calmly, your kokoro will move thinking, “This sounds a bit worrisome,” or “I should not make a hasty decision, I should talk to my family about it,” and you will be able to avoid serious situations. If the family’s kokoro are united, not only will fraud and scams be avoided, but illness, accidents, and disasters will also be avoided.

In today’s society, where scams are becoming more sophisticated, it is necessary to take physical measures. However, there is no absolute solution, and anxiety may never end. Let’s grasp how to live a life that protects us from Kami’s teachings.

Shinji

Gain awareness from the teachings and strive to build a family environment that lives by the principles.
Naturally and gradually, the family’s thoughts will come together, and conversations to tell each other’s feelings will grow.
The movement of kokoro that is in harmony with the unmei will be taken, hence illnesses, accidents, and misfortunes will fade away.
The kokoro of each family member will stay anchored, allowing no feelings of worry and doubt to emerge.

If you, yourself, have a family of your own, have a good discussion with your spouse about this first. Don’t try to handle it all by yourself. Listen to your husband’s thoughts, and you and your spouse must share your feelings and interact with your parents. Although what you have gone through this time was a terrible experience, we hope that you use this as an opportunity to change your way of life and deepen the bonds between your family.