I live a single life, supporting myself through stocks and investments using the inheritance left by my parents. My married younger sister frequently tells me I should get a job, but I have no intention of doing so, and I find her nagging annoying. Do I really have to work? (Male in his 50s)
A
How one chooses to live is a personal matter, yet a life lived in this era—with this specific family and these particular relationships—is a unique, irreplaceable experience. We should strive to lead a life where we can deeply savor a sense of purpose and joy, ultimately feeling truly glad to be alive.
Kami expresses the concept of “happiness” (shiawase) using characters that signify “serving together”. It is the deep sense of fulfillment derived from serving others—the feeling that “it is good to be of use” and “I am needed”—that constitutes the greatest happiness for a human being.
Work is not merely a means of earning money; it is about utilizing the given power from Kami to benefit the world—one’s unmei—through one’s engagement with society. Whether or not one holds formal employment, what matters is living in a way that generously meets the needs of those around you to the best of your ability. By living with such a “spirit of service (hōshi),” you can lead a life filled with joy, where you are both appreciated and needed. Furthermore, this way of life draws out the strength of your “unmei” and fills you with such vitality that you become resilient against illness, accidents, and misfortunes.
Shinji
Strive to become a person who draws the strength of their unmei out, and live each day giving back to society.
What protects your life is not the financial power—money.
Understand that it is the strength of your unmei.
The more you give back to society, the more your thoughts to live deepens.
Have the conviction to make use of your strength (ability) protected by your unmei for the realization of people’s happiness.
The more this kokoro (conviction) deepens, human beings are protected by the strength of their unmei, and experience true joy of living life.
Hōshi (giving back) Kami calls for is an act of engaging with others to be of help—cherishing their feelings—without regard for personal gain or loss. Your family is the primary recipient of such care. Try to sense the feelings underlying your younger sister’s words and listen to her attentively. Family members are the ones who care about you and worry about you more deeply than anyone else. Overlooking such vital matters could lead to lifelong regrets.
Stocks and investments are inherently volatile and unstable; it is important to recognize that earning a living from them requires significant effort. Regardless of how you generate income, approaching your work with a spirit of service (hōshi) is what leads to successful outcomes. Let us strive to lead fulfilling lives, bringing joy to many through our very presence.