Today is the last day of 2008.
Because this year was the first year at my newly assigned work, I spent more energy than previous years in keeping myself focused. By being focused, we are more empowered. With invaluable support from all beings, 2008 has become one of my most fruitful years with many precious encounters, accomplishments, and awakenings.
One of my awakenings I have experienced this year was that I had realized that because of the works and supports of so many people, I am now as I am.
Translation, publication, and distribution of Buddha Dharma books are some of the major works of mine since this year. These works gave me an opportunity to read a story behind the publication of the English translation of the Lotus Sutra, a major scripture of Mahayana Buddhism. This story was the testimonial speech by Rev. Kojiro Miyasaka, former Director of International Affairs Section of Rissho Kosei-kai Headquarters. His speech tells about how Rissho Kosei-kai Buddhist organization was able to publish the first English translation of the Lotus Sutra from Chinese translation. When I read this story, I was very grateful to Rev. Miyasaka. He became my hero.
After reading his story, I became most grateful to Rev. Bunno Kato, who had translated the Lotus Sutra from Chinese to English in 1925 for the first time in the world. Without his work, I am not able to share beautiful messages of the Lotus Sutra with people in the US.
Then I renewed my appreciation to Rev. Nikkyo Niwano, who taught me the value of Buddha Dharma through his guidance and his life.
Kumarajiva is the great Buddhist translator of 4th Century in China, who translated the Lotus Sutra from Sanskrit to Chinese. I am most grateful to Kumarajiva for his dedication to the work of translation of the Sutra of the Lotus Flower of the Wonderful Dharma.
My deepest appreciation goes to Shakyamuni Buddha, who is the source of wisdom, the source of most fulfilling life. 
Then, I was awakened to all those who guided and supported me in pursuing my Buddhist life. They include my parents, my family, Buddhist Sangha in RK Sapporo, all RK Sangha members, and all friends.
Thank you everyone for your support, your life, and your presence.
Because of each and every one of you, I am now as I am!
Gassho
Shoko Mizutani
