Have you ever deeply pondered the question, “Who am I?”
After becoming disabled and beginning life as a person with a severe physical disability, this question became unavoidable for me. I had lost so much—physical freedom, my role in society, and what I had once considered a “normal life.” Yet, amidst those losses, I discovered something profound: the “strength to live as a Japanese.” This realization was intertwined with the spirituality of Shinto and the core belief in ancestor worship, which has continuously supported me.

This awareness transformed my life fundamentally. Today, I want to share this journey with you and explore the essence of the strength to live as a Japanese.

Rediscovering Shinto Through Disability
As a child, I often visited shrines with my family, celebrating New Year’s or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of festivals. For me, Shinto was simply a part of everyday life, not something I actively reflected on. However, after becoming disabled and losing the ability to move freely, I found myself recalling something my grandmother used to say:

“Our ancestors are always watching over us.”

The moment I remembered those words, I felt a strange sense of comfort, as though an invisible presence was gently patting me on the shoulder. The Shinto concepts of yaoyorozu no kami (the belief in myriad deities) and ancestor worship eased my feelings of isolation and gave me a newfound sense of hope.

The Strength to Live as a Japanese, Awakened by Disability
What exactly is “the strength to live as a Japanese”?
It is the resilience to rise again after adversity, the wisdom to move forward, and the cultural emphasis on harmony with others and nature. These values have been woven into the fabric of Japanese life for centuries. In a land frequently struck by natural disasters, communities have long worked together to rebuild and support one another. This spirit of mutual aid and respect for nature reflects deeply rooted Japanese traditions—and it became a vital source of strength for me.

Before I became disabled, I never gave much thought to my identity as a Japanese. However, having lost so much, I began to notice the things that truly mattered—the beauty of nature, the passing of seasons, and the kindness of people around me. These elements, I realized, were sustained by a distinctly Japanese way of life.

One of the most profound lessons I learned was this: The strength to move forward is never yours alone. Shinto teaches the concept of seimei shin—a pure and bright heart. This principle of living in harmony with others and nature became the key to accepting myself and finding peace.

A New Perspective Through Ancestor Worship
As I embraced the belief in ancestor worship, I started to see myself as a bridge connecting the past and the future. Whenever I faced challenges, the memory of my grandparents would come to mind, and their presence seemed to gently encourage me. Reflecting on the hardships they endured helped me realize the significance of my own existence and the interconnectedness of our lives.

The strength we draw on to live each day is a gift passed down by our ancestors. Their legacy of perseverance and culture is what supports us, and it is our responsibility to pass this strength on to future generations.

Passing on the Strength to Live as a Japanese
Having gained this awareness, I now see my life with disability not as merely inconvenient or difficult, but as an opportunity to learn and share. To pass on the strength to live as a Japanese, I must first embody that strength in my own life and demonstrate its value to those around me.

For example, by accepting my struggles and facing them positively, I may inspire courage in others. By sharing my experiences through my blog, I might offer solace to those wrestling with similar challenges.

Empathizing With the “Strength to Live”
You, too, possess this “strength to live as a Japanese.” It may not always be visible, but it’s there, quietly supporting you. Whether it’s through your connections with nature, the wisdom and traditions passed down by your ancestors, or the relationships that sustain you, this strength will help you rise above adversity and light your path to the future.

If you are currently struggling, take a moment to close your eyes and reflect. Think of your ancestors, the beauty of the natural world, and the resilience within yourself. These elements will surely stand by your side and give you strength.

In Conclusion
The strength to live as a Japanese is not something extraordinary. It is a presence that gently supports us in our daily lives, enabling us to move forward. My disability helped me discover this strength, but it lies within everyone.

I hope this article encourages you to reflect on your own “strength to live” and share it with future generations. Together, our individual strengths can illuminate the path forward for Japan and its people.