(A.S. from Aichi Prefecture / Female/ 30s / Works at a Developmental Support Facility)
After I started to work at a nursery school, I was always driven by the desire to do what was best for the children. However, the reality often involved a heavy emphasis on managing the children or prioritizing profits. Troubled by the gap between this reality and the vision of early childhood education I had imagined, I changed jobs twice. Then, a senior colleague who observed how closely I connected with the children suggested that I might be better suited for therapeutic care—which focuses on deeply engaging with each child—prompting me to make yet another career move.
Even in a New Workplace, I Wanted to Change Jobs
At my new workplace, we care for children with developmental delays, autism, and intellectual disabilities. Although I was still getting used to the role, I spent my days thinking about the needs of each individual child and sharing laughter with them. One of the biggest challenges was juggling work across multiple facilities; as operations expanded, everyone was overwhelmed by the hectic pace and struggling to keep their heads above water. Staff morale was fractured, and somewhere along the way, the atmosphere of genuinely cherishing the children seemed to fade. It became difficult to consult with others, and there were times when I had to handle particularly demanding children entirely on my own.
The thought of changing jobs crossed my mind once again. Just around that time, my mother invited me to the Hikari no Yakata, as I was constantly troubled by work-related issues.
With the Sole Purpose to Help the Children with Needs
It is a sacred place I have visited countless times since childhood. Attending a study session there after a long absence helped me realize certain things and clarify what I truly value. I resolved to fully carry out the role entrusted to me. I understood that no matter how much I changed my surroundings, if I did not change myself, I would simply end up hopping from one job to another. The children right in front of me are what matter most. For their sake—and for everyone else’s—I decided to give it my best effort here a little longer. I believe the reason I felt a desire to be of greater service at my workplace is that I had learned how a person ought to live through the Shinji.
I wanted every child to have a happy time and to do whatever I could to support their healthy growth—that was the mindset I brought to my interactions with them. I sometimes encountered situations I wasn’t used to, such as a child having a panic attack. Even then, I would respond by considering each child’s unique personality—perhaps handing them a favorite stuffed animal or speaking to them gently. As I dedicated myself to connecting with them, the children eventually began running over to me. Seeing the parents happy as well gave me a real sense of fulfillment.
The Atmosphere at the Workplace Changed Completely
It was then that a problem arose at the facility; we had failed to handle a dispute between the children effectively. Although I hadn’t been present myself, I found myself thinking, “If only we had all helped each other…” and “We need an environment where we can better exchange ideas.” I decided to speak to my supervisor about this, and they responded proactively, leading to a gradual shift in the workplace atmosphere.
The workplace used to be one where a lack of breathing room often led to demands like “Just do this!” Lately, however, there has been an increase in considerate exchanges—phrases like “Could I ask you to handle this?” or “You took care of that last time, so I’ll do it this time.” We can also freely consult one another, discussing things like, “What would be a better way to handle a situation like this?” Hearing things like “We really need you here” or “When are you coming back?” brings the joy of feeling truly valued by both my supervisor and the children. It fills me with a strong desire to fully live up to my responsibilities.
Confirming the Working of Happiness through Shinji.
Shinji
Work becomes a meaning and purpose for those who have acquired the kokoro of hōshi.
Give back your strength and your presence to the close people you encounter.
Gradually and naturally many people will gather, cultivates the kokoro of love, and the environment will start to thrive and flourish.
Grasp the principles and Kami wishes you have work that gives you meaning and purpose.
Shinji are teachings that explain how to live in order to find true happiness. Because they embody universal truths applicable to everyone, living in accordance with these teachings ensures that one’s life will take a turn for the better.