In Tokyo, the cherry blossoms’ blooming was officially announced. Scenes of cherry blossoms and a variety of flowers coming into bloom appeared here and there, brightening the surrounding space. While I wish for a world situation where we may enjoy this beautiful spring, I continuously pray that the loss of human life and the destruction of buildings will cease as soon as possible. The images on television news of buildings being destroyed and black smoke rising makes my heart ache deeply. I sincerely pray for the safety of those living in those regions. Each day, I reflect on what can be done in Japan, and I always strive to live beautifully inside in a forward-looking manner. Understanding that action itself is prayer, I spend my days wishing to create movement, open the way ahead, and bring forth the future. While this spring has also been made difficult by severe hay fever, I live each day feeling that I place my hopes in the workings of the human heart, wishing to create movements linked in heart with people around the world, so that conflicts may come to an end as swiftly as possible.
Tomorrow, at Tokyo Komaya, we will hold a “Poetry Gathering for Spring Equinox.” Words are life, and they open the way forward. With a sense of gratitude to have the opportunity to express words, I will hold this gathering. It is truly a blessing that such an event can be held in Japan, and we will strive to make it an opportunity where we can feel the hearts of people all over the world. Thank you very much.