The new year is significant in Japan because it's a fresh start to a new year. Time to make resolutions and set goals to accomplish for the year. It's also a time to reflect upon the year that has passed and see what you have achieved and what is still left to do.
Here is a poem that was sent to me this Christmas that really resonated with me.
Be Thankful
Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something
For it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times, you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations
Because they give you opportunity for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge
Because it will build your strength and character.
Be thankful for your mistakes
They will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary
Because it means you've made a difference.
It is easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are
Also thankful for the setbacks.
Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles
And they can become your blessings.
I think this resonates so deeply with me because in Buddhism we have the power to turn all negative situations into a blessing. Each hardship is an opportunity for an individual to grow and deepen their faith and find their buddha nature. It is up to me to have the determination to change "poison into medicine". No prayer ever goes unanswered. I have deep gratitude that one of the most important legacies my mom passed on to me is this Buddhism. With this Buddhism I can accomplish anything! Today, I will not be defeated. Today, I will courageously advance!
