On days of sorrow

Yesterday when I was sorting my things out, I came across an old notebook I kept thirty years ago. It's my scribbles from a lecture on Philosophy of Education. On one page there is a poem by Juukichi Yagi. I'll copy it here in Japanese.

かなしい日はかなしみのみちをゆきくらし
よろこびの日はよろこびのみちをゆきくらし
たんねんに　いちねんに　あゆんできたゆえ
かすかなまことがみえてきた
じぶんでみつけねば　だれも力をかしてくれぬ
このひとすじのたびは　つらかったが
こわたれぬせかいがすこしみえてきた
かたじけなさ

I'm not good at translating poetry but I'll give it a try.

On days of sorrow I live in complete sorrow
On days of happiness I live in absolute happiness
I have walked step by step with simplicity and diligence
so now a hint of truth is in my view
Nobody lends a hand if you do not find it by yourself
This travel on a narrow path has been difficult but
I have a glimpse of an unbroken world
with gratitude

The lecturer told us that it was necessary to concentrate on the sadness and it was important not to change it into grumbling or hatred or any other emotions. Without realising it, when we are sad, we might end up complaining bitterly about something which actually should not be the issue. Nobody will be able to cure your soreness in your heart however at least you can give a cry. You can express yourself. The best thing is that you remain 'clean' and 'pure' in your own heart, which in itself might move someone. Keep your mind concentrated. Don' be bothered by what your other emotions say.The most wonderful thing you can do to people is to really be one in yourself.

posted by Edera