Do you know that can renew your hearts and provide real happiness?.
Japanese bestselling author, Kentetsu Takamori has written a new book “Something you forgot… along the way” . In this book, Mr. Takamori tells 65 stories about human nature that help us deal with loss and change and teach us to live more fully. His book has sold over half a million copies in Japan and has now been translated into English and was released the first week in September.
The stories focus on such basics as the importance of perseverance, the real meaning of honor, and how success is not gained by chance, but by the fruit of our efforts.
The stories aim to give guidance and help the reader see deeper into life. Takamori has lectured worldwide and serves as chair of the Buddhist organization Jodo Shinshu Shinrankai in Japan.
The depth of his thought is belied by the simplicity of his prose. He writes with a clarity that is accessible to children but profound enough to stir adults.
Other book translated to English of this author is “You Were Born for a Reason”.
HOY EN DELAWARE- Why did you choose to write a book (Something You Forgot … Along the Way) with many short stories – in the tradition of Aesop’s fables- instead of a longer one?
KENTETSU TAKAMORI- It’s because I wanted to include as many readers as possible. Even people who are busy or not used to reading books can pick up Something You Forgot … Along the Way and easily go through it. It takes less than three minutes to read each story. To gain important knowledge about life in a short period of time, by reading stories that leave a lasting impression, is rather wonderful, I think. Also, children, by reading one story every morning, can become more thoughtful of others and develop a positive outlook on life. In this way I believe they can grow up to become upstanding members of society.
(HD)- Why do you think people run crazily along their lives instead of taking a breath and thinking about what’s really important?
(KT)- I would say it’s because they are unable to endure the emptiness within, the continuous feelings of discontent, and can’t help trying to distract themselves from that bleak reality. What are we to do in our short lives, which are like soap bubbles that soon must burst? I think some hints are needed to encourage people to stop for a moment, take a good look at themselves, and think about the meaning of life.
(HD)- What do you think makes Eastern thought so profound?
(KT)- I believe it’s the influence of Buddhism, more than anything else. Just as many scientists and philosophers have pointed out, Sakyamuni shed light on the human mind and the meaning of human life in a very keen and logical way.
(HD)- When I was in Japan I was shocked because of the big contrast between the traditional and the vanguard and the way they coexist in apparent perfect harmony, but is that real harmony or is it only the appearance of harmony?
(KT)- I believe that it’s only apparent harmony, not true harmony.
(HD)- Why do you recommend people to read your book?
(KT)- It’s because I would like to share with as many people as possible the key to success and hints for happiness.
(HD)- What is the secret of happiness?
(KT)- The father of Pure Land Buddhism, Shinran Shonin, has answered this question. I would like people to carefully read and understand my other books, too, including You Were Born for a Reason.
