06/03/2026
Today’s guest was a monk from France.
For the past forty years, he has returned to Japan time and again, quietly witnessing the many changes in this country and its people. Listening to his stories was both fascinating and deeply engaging.
Rather than judging change as good or bad, he simply observes it as it unfolds, accepting and even enjoying the natural flow of things. As one might expect of a monk, there is a spirit in him that feels very close to Zen.
“Please, have a bowl of tea.”
He looked intently at the tea bowl for a moment, then said softly,
“Beautiful. A perfect beauty is appearing here.”
After a pause, he added,
“France and Japan share something in common. Both cultures have a gift for expressing the most subtle and delicate forms of beauty. Perhaps that is why we feel such a natural affinity for one another.”
It was a quiet moment, simple and unassuming, yet one that will remain gently in my memory.
Everyday is good day
