One day, when Oyasama’s daughter Kokan told Her that there was no rice left in the house, Oyasama said to her:
“When we drink water, it tastes of water. God the Parent has blessed us with exquisite gifts.”
The Life of Oyasama, p. 32
Life can involve very difficult situations. Yet this does not mean that life is inherently difficult. Rather, it is simply that there are times when we experience difficulties. Even when we feel we have the whole world against us, calm reflection tells us that there is always something for which we can only feel grateful.
In this day and age, when we can eat whatever we want and as much as we want, having “no rice left in the house” may not sound like a real problem.
In the days when Oyasama was physically present, however, a lack of rice could have been a matter of life or death. Without rice, there was little people could do to tide themselves over until the next harvest. Imagine how heartrending it must have been for a mother to be told by her daughter that there was no more rice in the house.
Yet there is no sadness in Oyasama’s response. Instead, one can perceive a heartwarming sense of wellbeing and assurance gently embracing Her family.
Rather than feel depressed about what is missing, She tells Her daughter to appreciate what she is blessed with, including abundant clean water as well as good health, which enables her to savor the water. During the casual family conversation, Oyasama teaches how precious it is that water and all other blessings permeate nature and the human body.
This is just a glimpse into the model path Oyasama demonstrated in the course of a loving and harmonious family life.