We have a little Shinto shrine on the company property, and it has
just undergone a renovation to coincide with Shikinen Sengu, the regular
removal of the Grand Shrine of Ise.
Our own little shrine is kind of unique. It is surrounded by an
outer structure, which keeps the shrine from weathering, but of course the outer
structure got old and worn out. The priest comes to our office every month to
read a Shinto ritual prayer, and he suggested renovating the shrine.
There have been a number of twists and turns. Now the construction
work is over and the shrine has been rededicated in a magnificent new shrine
structure.
Today the cold has moderated, and I feel that spring is just around
corner. Red-blossom plum trees in my garden are starting to bloom.
In addition to the shrine refurbishing, the block walls have been
replaced by wire fences. Plantings within the wire fences are also finished. The
plants look fragile since they were just planted, but I hope they will grow
thick and tall to make people feel relaxed and comforted when they pass by.
The roof of the shrine is now covered with brand new copper so it shines
in the bright spring sunshine. The fresh scent of the Japanese “hinoki” cypress
wafts in the air.
I hope this shrine renovation project will be a good opportunity for
us all to reappraise safety.
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