Sincere gratitude is the name of the game. The Japanese are smart. They know that everything starts with appreciation. Before every meal they say ‘Itadakimasu’ meaning ‘I humbly receive this meal’, but there is the connotation that you are thanking every living being (including plants) that played even the smallest part in bringing the meal to your table.

When you practice Kyudo Japanese archery or other Japanese martial arts, before you even take a stance, you pay your respects to the gods of the Dojo.

And of course appreciation is the premise of Yamabushi training. We go out to nature and thank her for everything she has given us, which is, of course, everything.

Sure you may not have the most recent gadgets, or you may not have what others do, but if you are able to appreciate what you do have, your life, your family, your friends, and much more, then your life will be fulfilling.