The Teachings of Suzumushi-dera Temple and the Yellow Amulet | Amulet Encyclopedia

"I was called here, so I came."
I visited Suzumushi-dera Temple in Kyoto for the first time in a while.

Before offering thanks for the past and sharing a new wish with the Jizo statue wearing straw sandals, there is the "charei" time, where you receive a sermon from the head priest that flows as smoothly as rakugo, all while being enveloped by the cool, refreshing sound of the bell crickets.

On this day, four teachings that reached my heart directly—and which connect to human relationships and, by extension, world peace—really resonated with me. These are "Sokkon Tadaima" (cherishing this very moment), "Wakei Seijaku" (respecting one another and maintaining tranquility), "Kigen Yoku" (keeping one's own heart in a good state), and "Kurabenai" (not comparing oneself to others). Each word felt like a prescription, and it was a precious time.

With the newly received yellow "Happiness Jizo" amulet in my hand, I quietly press my palms together before the Jizo statue.
"May I, and those around me, spend our days in good spirits."
※My true wish is a secret (laughs).

The phrase "Sokkon Tadaima" is the very essence of how I live my life.
All the detours I have taken so far, and all the scenery I will encounter from here on, exist for the sake of this very moment.
With this tangible amulet and these words deeply carved into my heart,
carrying these two as my ultimate "amulets," I intend to continue carefully building up my own "now" starting today.
That "feeling of falling into place" you get when you encounter words that become the core of your being is a treasure that cannot be replaced by anything else.