by Gavin Damron
Hello, everyone. It is nice to meet you.
I currently live and work in New York City at the Tenri Cultural Institute. The institute is well known for its Japanese Language School, art gallery, and music concert hall.
Today, I would like to share some of my reflections on attending Shuyoka, the three-month Spiritual Development Course in Jiba.
About twenty years ago, I attended Shuyoka when I was in my twenties. At that time, it was a very positive experience, and I have many fond memories of the three-month course.
Because of personal circumstances, I was later encouraged to attend Shuyoka once again. Returning now as a middle-aged adult, I found the experience to be very different from my first time.
Reading The Life of Oyasama and The Doctrine of Tenrikyo again had a profound impact on my faith. Another book, Anecdotes of Oyasama, also deeply touched my heart. Learning about the lives and devotion of our predecessors helped strengthen my faith and deepen my trust in God the Parent.
Like many Shuyoka students, I found adjusting to the daily schedule during the first two months to be challenging. However, thanks to the kindness, encouragement, and support of so many people, my Shuyoka experience became a truly meaningful and positive one. It reminded me that genuine human connection has the power to encourage and uplift one another.
Participating in daily hinokishin and attending classes each day also improved both my physical and mental well-being. These experiences helped me appreciate the importance of living a balanced life while practicing the teachings.
Attending Shuyoka has not only changed my life, but it has also renewed my faith and strengthened my appreciation for being a Tenrikyo follower. When I return to New York, I hope to be a positive influence on those around me. I also plan to continue participating in hinokishin and engaging in missionary work whenever I have the opportunity.
I am sincerely grateful to everyone who supported me throughout my time in Shuyoka.
Thank you very much.