Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
Gregg Krechamazon.com
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Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
Okagesama is the recognition of these forces that are hidden in the shadow of our lives. Self-reflection allows us to see inside the walls and under the skin of our day-to-day existence. We become aware of how we are supported, cared for, and loved even as we send an email, drink a cup of coffee, or take a shower.
Gregg Krech • Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
These are the elements of our life that are in the shadow, so to see them, we have to look very deeply at our life. We have to see with more than just our eyes.
Gregg Krech • Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
Ichi Go Ichi E is a Japanese phrase that literally means “one time, one meeting.” However it is often translated as “once in a lifetime encounter.”
Gregg Krech • Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
There’s a Japanese word, okagesama, which is often used conversationally to express thanks. The root of this word, kage, means “shadow.” It acknowledges that there are unseen forces in this world which make our life possible.
Gregg Krech • Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
The Japanese psychiatrist, Shoma Morita, asked us to embrace the concept of Arugamama – meaning to “accept things as they are.” Acceptance is the alternative to control.
Gregg Krech • Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
Just because we don’t feel loved doesn’t mean we aren’t loved. Just because we don’t feel cared for doesn’t mean we aren’t cared for. We have to look up. We have to look around us and behind us. Sometimes we just have to look right in front of us. Life has not forsaken us. Don’t mistake pain for abandonment.
Gregg Krech • Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
So perhaps we can take a lesson from our friends, the trees, and simply do our best with whatever situation we encounter. The conditions of our lives will always be less than ideal. But just to be planted on this earth for a brief period of time is truly a gift that we should continuously reflect on.
Gregg Krech • Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
The maxim, “I Get to . . .” is the antidote to living a reluctant life. I get to walk the dog. I get to wash the dishes. I get to go to the supermarket for food. The phrase I Get to implies that it is a privilege to do such activities – a blessing.
Gregg Krech • Tunneling for Sunlight: Twenty-One Maxims of Living Wisdom from Buddhism and Japanese Psychology to Cope with Difficult Times
Surrender to the music—whatever happens to be playing at the moment. Dance your way through life.