49. Sincere Appreciation

Followers who returned afar from all parts of the country would often bring local specialties and rare items as gifts to the Honseki. When something was presented to him, he would bring it near him, close his eyes, and bow in sincere appreciation.

Without regard whether it was an everyday object or a valuable one, he would always look at it from the top and each side. He would place it before him and say, “What a wonderful and unusual object,” bringing joy to returning followers, and expressing his appreciation of heaven’s gifts, all at the same time.

(Adapted from Shinpan Izo Iburi den pp. 137–138 and Ten no jogi p. 151)

• Next installment in this series: 50. Remembering Modesty and Refusing to Succumb to Extravagance

*Note: This post has been revised since its original publication.