kanransai

I first met artist, Kanransai at Toji Temple in Kyoto last year.

His paintings and artwork are mostly of Jizo-son and Kannon, as well as enlightened figures in Buddhism.

If I am not mistaken, Jizo-son watches over children and the living and Kannon represents peace.

While at Toji Temple, we looked at his exhibit, some of his paintings were powerful and some were very calming.

I bought a calendar of sorts at the exhibit. There are no months, just days of the month on it.

Everyday, there is a "new saying", well, after going through the calendar for the whole year, you come to memorize the sayings. I like this calendar because it reminds you of something to be thankful for everyday.

For example, the 31st is "Arigatoo wasurenaide arigatoo" (Thanks don't forget, thanks). The 6th is "Shizen no megumi arigatoo" (Thanks for the blessing of Nature). The 25th is "Watashi no inochi arigatoo" (Thanks for my life). And the 12th is "Itadakimasu, Gochisoosama, Arigatoo" (Thanks for the meal) to just name a few.

Today is Kinro Kansha no hi, kind of like Labor Day and Thanksgiving blended together, a national holiday.

My grandma says that she says "thanks" everyday, no matter what kind of day she has had. Something I would like to try to do. I think this calendar helps.

It will be Thanksgiving in the States soon. It is this time of year that I miss being with family and friends the most.

I am thankful that we have both been healthy this year. And that Satoshi has been busy with work. I am also thankful that Satoshi lets me visit Hawaii at least once a year and that he lets me do as I wish.

What are you thankful for?