"Even the insects want happiness" --- the Dalai Lama

A mantis walks up to the temple to pray.

Unfortunately for him, a juvenile rattlesnake

also comes here to prey -- on such things as

lizards, mice, and large insects.

Memorial Services in Saipan, Northern Marianas

On the small island of Saipan (about the size of San Francisco) we participated in various services for WWII dead. In a battle which lasted less than a month, 29,000 Japanese soldiers died (out of 31,000 total), 3500 Americans (out of 71,000), and 22,000 civilians, mostly Japanese suicides but also native Chamorros caught in  the crossfire. Here shown are 300 lanterns we assembled, placed candles inside, and set adrift in the ocean at sunset. Written on the lanterns are the mantras NAMU MYOHO RENGE KYO  and NAMU AMIDA BUTSU.

On the small island of Saipan, which is about the same size as the City of San Francisco, we participated in various services for the WWII dead. In a battle that lasted less than a month, 29,000 Japanese soldiers died (out of 31,000 total), 3500 Americans (out of 71,000 total), and 22,000 civilians, mostly Japanese suicides, but also Chamorro natives caught in the crossfire.
Here shown are 300 lanterns which we made, placed candles inside, and set them to drift in the ocean at sunset. Written on the lanterns are the mantras NAMU MYOHO RENGE KYO and NAMU AMIDA BUTSU.

Perceptions of Japanese Buddhism

The Japanese word 'EN' means 'relationships', and for the people practicing our Buddhist tradition, good EN is the foundation. Practicing and serving in warm harmony with those you respect and trust is essential. But due to the subtlety of this essential point, the American perception is often different.

They see Japanese Buddhism as a business, where entry fees are charged and amulets sold.

Or they perceive it as entertainment, where rites and rituals are performed for audiences.

Or they see it as similar to the military, with a hierarchical form and young trainees shouting 'HAI!' (Yes,sir!) to advance up the ranks.

Or as a sports competition, where he who sits Zazen straightest for the longest time is superior.

Or as a livelihood, where one with sufficient charisma and fame will be supported by others.

Or like schools, where by attending for several years, one will receive a certificate and title.    

But Buddhist EN is different from all these. It is like a flame burning in one's heart ('bodhicitta'), spreading from one heart to another, loving everyone, having no enemies, seeking only to benefit others and bring about our mutual Buddhahood.