This past year, the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii marked its Triple Celebration—honoring the 800th anniversary of the establishment of the Jodo Shinshu teachings, the 850th anniversary of the birth of Shinran Shonin, and the 135th anniversary of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii. Meanwhile, Wailuku Hongwanji celebrated its 125th anniversary. These milestones provided a meaningful opportunity to reflect on our rich and cherished history, and to honor the individuals and communities who have shaped our lives today.
As we enter the New Year of 2025, we do so with gratitude for our past and a renewed commitment to our Shin Buddhist values of selflessness and compassion. After all, it is these very values—held dear by generations of Wailuku Hongwanji members who came before us—that have made the foregoing celebrations possible.
In reflecting upon selflessness and compassion and their relevance to our contemporary lifestyles, I recalled a simple but unforgettable conversation I had with a temple elder more than 30 years ago. He offered advice on how to develop and maintain business integrity in an island culture. His advice was simple: “No be Greedy”.
While his advice was given in the context of growing and sustaining a business, “no be greedy” applies to all elements of daily living. In the New Year of 2025, each of us will encounter conditions and circumstances that challenge our spirit. Not being greedy offers useful guidance for negotiating these challenges. It reminds us that:
- Irreplaceable moments of happiness do not depend on material gain. True joy often arises from simple, unspoken moments, not from possessions or status.
- What you already have—imperfect though it may be—is a source of true gratitude. Disappointment stems from constantly longing for what we don’t have. In contrast, “what you do have”—whether it is family, friends, a reliable car, a good doctor, or even a pen that works when you need it—can bring deep gratitude. Appreciating what we have brings us irreplaceable moments of joy.
- Share what you can, no matter how small. Whether it is a bite of a cookie, a kind word, a smile, or even a simple nod of acknowledgment, sharing fosters connection and brings joy to others. These small acts help to expand our Dharma-centered humanity. “No be Greedy”. We encounter opportunities to apply and practice this principle each day. Let us experience its joyful outcomes as we journey through the New Year.