Introduction
What I want to share here is my experience learning from the teachings of Mr. Shinji Takahashi. Understanding his wisdom often started in my mind as I read his books, which present the same concepts from various angles. Because I was particularly slow in grasping certain key expressions, I frequently relied on a Japanese digital dictionary—sometimes translating from Japanese to simpler Japanese. By this, I mean converting Kanji-based Japanese into Hiragana-based Japanese, if you know what I mean.
Let me explain further. Hiragana is a phonetic alphabet we primarily use for pronunciation. Each character carries no meaning on its own. Kanji, on the other hand, are Chinese characters that each have inherent meaning, along with specific pronunciations. Typically, Hiragana is used as a compliment—like a garnish—to clarify the meaning of Kanji, ensuring the author’s intended message is understood without ambiguity.
My explanation may not be perfectly precise, but I hope you get the general idea. That should be sufficient for our discussion.
So, what does a bottom feeder do?
I first learned this term while watching a nature show in the U.S. A where a television set shows a scene depicting deep-sea creatures—perhaps a lanky crab with eight legs, or a swarm of deep-sea lice—feeding on the carcass of a dead sea lion or leftover sperm whale meat drifting down from above, like snowfall in the ocean depths. I hope you can picture it.
Like those bottom feeders, I am eager to absorb any spiritual nourishment available to me. In an environment where true wisdom is rare, I have learned to appreciate even the smallest fragments of knowledge, no matter how difficult they are to digest. Even if the “food” is tough or unpleasant—like a piece of rotten meat that my teeth can barely chew—I remain grateful for whatever I receive. After all, when hunger is extreme, does it really matter how the meal tastes?
If something is palatable, I am thankful to whoever provided it. But even if it is repulsive to my senses—if it stinks, for example—I still recognize its value. Recently, I had such an experience in a doughnut shop when a beggar wandered in. Initially, I was struck by his strong vinegary odor. But rather than react negatively, I saw it as an opportunity to practice how I should treat another human being. I already knew the answer: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
That moment, I believe, was a test given to me by my Guardian or Guiding Spirit—to see if I could truly maintain a broad, compassionate mind, regardless of my initial sensory reaction. I let my higher self take control, ensuring my mind and body responded appropriately. I continued my business with the shop owner but remained ready to assist the beggar if he requested help. However, I was careful not to impose, as I didn’t want to act condescendingly.
I still struggle with certain aspects of spoken English, especially when heavy accents are involved. I didn’t want to create an awkward situation where my lack of fluency could be mistaken for arrogance or indifference. So, I simply carried on, completing my purchase for my wife—one chocolate chip cookie doughnut, one devil’s food doughnut, and one twisted devil’s food doughnut. I believe I passed that test.
Conclusion
By adopting the mindset of a bottom feeder, I can remain open to learning in unexpected ways. Every moment presents an opportunity to expand my mind, allowing my Good-Self to guide me in practicing true compassion. To me, God’s light is everywhere, always extending a helping hand. The real challenge is not rejecting His guidance simply because my senses resist the situation or the person I encounter.
I fail when I misunderstand the lesson before me—when I show kindness only to those I personally favor while turning away from those I find difficult to accept. True spiritual growth lies in overcoming such biases, learning to embrace all beings with appreciation and love. I welcome being a bottom feeder.