On the day after the concert, we traveled to Yamamoto Town in Miyagi Prefecture, and at Yui-Kobo, Master Idaki Shin roasted coffee beans. Once when I visited the village of Yirgachafe in Ethiopia, I experienced with my whole being that coffee is a gift from god, and today as well, when I prepared a cup from the freshly roasted beans, it felt as though I had encountered god. Through coffee, I can truly sense that the life of nature is imbued with the presence of god. Each life is lived fully, and all are in harmony. Every time I drink coffee, I feel this harmony within my own life. In particular, Master Idaki Shin becomes united with people and with nature, releasing conditions that place burdens upon life and accompanying the process through which life’s original power emerges. Because of this, the true power of coffee is drawn forth, and a cup of incomparably delicious coffee is born—something that cannot be tasted anywhere else. While coffee has been taken as medicine in Ethiopia, I feel that the inherent power of coffee indeed works in that way. I can physically sense the body becoming balanced and restored. To be able to live with vitality while enjoying such delicious coffee is something for which I feel deeply grateful. Coffee has supported me day after day. Even in the heat of summer, by drinking coffee, I could live through the season energetically free from heat fatigue. In winter, hot coffee brought warmth to my heart, lighting a ray of hope within, giving me the courage to continue living. Today as well, when brewing coffee at Yui-Kobo, I sensed the fragrance of happiness. Here in Japan, we are blessed to have such experiences. At the same time, I keep in my heart the many people who still live under the sound of bombing, spending their days amid danger to their lives. I fervently pray that we may be together and that they may remain safe. I hope that the happiness we experience in Japan will spread throughout the world and transform the very atmosphere of the world. I always believe that there is work to be done here in Japan, and each day I strive to live and work in a way that helps create the future ahead.
Today again, at Yui-Kobo, I spent time filled with warmth together with everyone, and my heart is filled with joy and gratitude. I sincerely hope that many people will enjoy this delicious coffee and enjoy a moment of happiness. Thank you.