impressive words

I read a short story in English today. I am not a Christian but I was deeply moved by the following:

I believe that God puts certain people in our lives, even if it is for a brief encounter like this, to help us through a difficult time. I don't think this is just a coincidental meeting. I believe it's his way of saying　'It's okay, I am with you.'

There are moments in life when we truly sense God's presence, and this was one of those times. I had this feeling that I had been talking with an angel.

The way to feel better about yourself is to make someone else feel better.

hydrangea in Shimoda

Soaking in a hot spring is good for my broken ankle, I hear.

Ms. M and I went to Shimoda hot springs. The hotel where we stayed overlooked the Port of Shimoda. There were five hotels around our hotel. To my surprise, three of them were closed!

Hydrangeas, ajisai, were at their best in Shimoda.

father's day

It is Father's Day. My daughter's father was a brain doctor, and my father was a calligrapher. The former died at the age of 33 and the latter at the age of 69. Both of them were full of affection.

This is the picture of a special exhibition of my father's posthumous works which was held in my hometown last year.

a happy family

This is the picture taken in 1973. What a happy family! They carried a lunch to the beach. Take a look at the beautiful blue sea. Yes, it was a very lovely day.

He was 32 years old. His wife was 30 and their only daughter was five years old. Who knew he would die in nine months?

Perhaps he knew it. He always said to his wife, "I am never afraid to die but I am so sorry to leave you and our daughter behind. I am sorry I can't keep my promise to make you happy."

Is he watching his wife and daughter somewhere in heaven ?

it rained all day

We are now in the rainy season. I know this is the very important season for every plant to grow. It rained all day. How do I long for the beautiful blue sky flecked with white clouds I saw at the top of Mt. Shiroyama last Monday!