August 29, 2009 Saturday

Well, today I wasn't feeling too well. Rose was taking me to the the Buddhist Center at 1pm to become a member and receive my Gohonzon. I almost backed out because I really wasn't feeling so hot, but I committed myself to go, so off I went. I realized one thing right away, I'm not very good at chanting, but I promise to practice and improve. My heart is pure, and I'm committed to this plan. I was welcomed with open arms, smiling faces, and great warmth. WE chanted, and then a meeting to share our lives and the wonder of chanting. I shared my troubles with the group and found myself feeling so much better. I met a young woman, beautiful, hauntingly beautiful, who had her own personal nightmare, of which I won't share out of respect for her privacy. But I felt so connected to her, moved by her, inspired by her. After the meeting Rose and JuleAnne and I walked back to my place where they helped me enshrine my Gohonzon and helped me do my first Nam-myoho-renge-kyo in my house to my Gohonzon. I can feel myself reorganizing my life already. There is a peace, and an inner strength here now that was lacking yesterday. I really feel it is possible now.

Then my daughter's friend came by for dinner. It made me feel close to Sarah. It was so wonderful to have girl energy in the house again. I love Kia so much. What a terrific young lady. I'm so blessed to have people like Kia, Rose, JuleAnne, and Gina (who found me after 30 years of being lost to each other). Life is rich. I'm glad for this wonderful day. No tests, no pain, just joy.