Kendo’s Healing Message for December

It’s Christmas time again and we all share in the positivity of the season, but it’s not so easy for those facing challenges, whatever form they may take – ill-health, relationship difficulties, or insecurity, whether personal or of one’s home.

At such times, when the contrast of the jollity surrounding us can seem at best ironic and at worst even cruel, Kendo advocates courage. But not simply trying to steel ourselves – he means enlightened courage. What does this mean?

The first thing to do is to try to discriminate – over our feelings. It’s important not to worry over the external things we can’t change; doing so risks overwhelming us when we need to be most aware of ourselves. This isn’t just being self-absorbed, but sensibly considering the one aspect we can make a difference with – ourselves. Taking a KyuShinDo approach to our external circumstances and placing them at an objective distance makes it immensely easier to think clearly and – more importantly – feel clearly.

This leads to the next phase – positivity towards ourselves. Of course, we should always strive to do the right thing with the external circumstances of our challenges, and this in itself should give us confidence in ourselves. However, in the midst of dealing with our challenges it can be all-too easy to be consumed by them and forget ourselves, It really is worth remembering our innate Buddha nature – our essential goodness.

So – take a moment, step away from things, find a Zen moment, and remember that you are more than the circumstances you face – much more.

Following Kendo’s advice when facing challenges can therefore give us courage – and strength and peace of mind, and perhaps most valuable, the ability to appreciate the positivity around us, both at Christmas time and at all other times.

All at the Kendo Nagasaki Foundation wish everyone a happy and peaceful Christmas, especially those who find themselves facing challenges; we hope that Kendo’s counsel helps you to enjoy the season.

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