I’d like to introduce to you some words of inspiration from the Shinnyo Dharma as a focus for our contemplation today:

“By giving full expression to our buddha nature – to our innate goodness,
Through our thoughts and deeds we awaken our hearts and minds.
We awaken our eyes of wisdom.

“Love and compassion are mutual acts of giving and receiving,
and in their truest form are free of expectations of reward.
Therein lies a world of joy.”

When we encounter unexpected obstacles in our lives, we need look no further than within ourselves for strength. For it is within each of our efforts – every thought and every action – that we express our inherent love and compassion. Every step that we take forward, no matter how small, can make us powerfully aware of how our lives can be used to express goodness, and offer joy to those around us.

Try not to allow the obstacles of life hold you back. If you look around right now and see our togetherness, we can extend our hopes for the future through the light of these lanterns.

The founder of Shinnyo-en, Shinjo Ito taught, “Never underestimate the power of prayer that we all share.”

We are all here together, myself from Japan, many thousands of you gathered at Ala Moana Beach or watching on television or online. We are also joined by our loved ones. The intention of our hearts cannot be seen, but their effects can be made real. Joined with one another, our combined efforts to look beyond ourselves will have profound, far-reaching outcomes.

May our energies tonight kindle the light of our lanterns with genuine hope as they illuminate a path towards a brighter tomorrow.