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Obon
A time to touch the past,
Feeling the joy and gratitude of obligation (On) for family.
A time for our ancestors, to live on in our heart.
A time to touch the present,
Feeling compassion and connection for all Life in all realms.
A time for all life, to live in our heart.
A time to touch the future,
Praying for an end to rebirth for all life in all times.
A time for all life, to become one heart.
OBON is a very special time. It allows us to strengthen our connection
to our family ancestors. Without their life we could not have
been born as a precious human being.
Once very early, I was at a Temple and noticed that a Koi was
jumping out of the pond as the priest was reciting the Sutras.
This Koi did not do this before or after the ritual, only during
the recitation. I opened my heart and could feel the desire to
be awakened within this special fish. I was filled with wonder
for the persistance of this fish to hear the Teachings of the
Buddhas.
I was so thankful that I was born a human and was filled with
gratitude for my parents and ancestors for bringing me into this
precious world.
The desire to become human is very strong, for as a Human we can
experience the wondrous teachings. Open your heart and share your
prayers with your ancestors and all life in all realms, during
this obon.
©1998 Shingon Buddhist International Institute
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