Editor's Note - This is an excerpt from the November 2009 issue of the Buddhist Wheel

Sakyamuni Buddha teaches us that one kind of suffering occurs when we cannot avoid separating from people who are close to us or are very dear to us. I cannot help thinking of this teaching now.

It has been one year and nine months since I was assigned to Hilo Betsuin in March of last year. However, time flies. Now the time to leave Hilo is fast approaching. I will be transferred to Kapaa Hongwanji on Kauai on December 1.

I departed from Japan about two years ago, and after orientation in Honolulu, I was assigned to Hilo Betsuin as a new minister. At that time, I was not used to speaking English, different cultures, and a new environment-- many differences from Japan. I started my ministry in such a situation. However, I have been able to perform my responsibilities up until now because of your warm help, great support, encouragement, and generous advice. I would like to extend my deep gratitude to Honpa Hongwanji Hilo Betsuin, members, friends, ministers, and all of you.

During my stay in Hilo, I experienced many things. When I first arrived, one thing surprised me. In English Family Service, the main temple was filled with all generations such as elderly people, adults, young people, and small children. In addition, some people were observing the service in the hallway and at outside of the entrance. When I saw this, I was really inspired and felt a sense of responsibility. I still remember this first impression.

Also, the temple activities are so lively. Many people support Hilo Betsuin. Many people are sharing the joy of Nembutsu teaching with others through service and various activities. I was especially impressed that everybody does this with pleasure. Furthermore, whenever I meet you, you always greet and talk to me nicely in the temple, the office, the town and so on. As I look back at each moment and each of you now, I feel that such people warmly raised me during my stay in Hilo. I really appreciate everything.

Reflecting on my ministry in Hilo Betsuin, I’ve thought about why I could come to this temple. Logically, it was because I had a chance to come to Hawaii, and I was assigned to Hilo Betsuin. However, when I think about this matter through and through, I wonder why this happened in my life, and why I could meet all of you by chance.

Five years ago, I had no idea that I was going to live in Hawaii. Living in Hilo was not in my schedule in my calendar. Instead, I have had this wonderful opportunity by chance. During this short period, I could observe even the Shinran Shonin 750th Memorial Service in Hilo Betsuin with you. As you know, this is held once in 50 years. Why did all these wonderful events happen? Thinking about the reason, I thought of a passage in “Gassho to Amida” which we always chant in English Family Service.

Namo Amida Butsu--
I live in his compassion.
His great power guides my life.
I gassho to Amida.

Why did all of this happen to me? … Nothing but the immeasurable Light and Life working to guide me. Under this guidance, the compass of Nembutsu teaching led me to Hilo Betsuin on the way of my life. Then you enabled me to share the Nembutsu teaching here. You taught me various things. And now, I have a lot of irreplaceable experiences and memories. How grateful I am!

I will never forget the precious memories of you, Hilo Betsuin and the Big Island. I’m assured that all my experiences in Hilo Betsuin will become my strength from now on. It is hard to say farewell. However, after parting, I will now be able to look forward to seeing you again. I will try to continue doing my best. Once again, thank you very much. Aloha and a big Mahalo. Namo Amida Butsu.

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