As we strolled around the monastery compound, Kazz explained that starting tomorrow, Monday, we’d purify our bodies in preparation for Friday’s fire ceremony. We were required to eat only Kessai food, which meant no chemicals, nothing powdered (including tofu), no eggs, no miso, and no meat, leaving mainly rice and vegetables. There was to be no talking between the students, but Kazz had received special permission to translate the lessons for me.

That night after a last “normal” dinner of tofu, cabbage, green tea, and a nectarine for dessert, I was introduced to the other participants. Some had come from as far away as Hokkaido, the northernmost island. I recognized a few from the ceremonies I attended during my earlier trips to Japan. They were happy to see me. In his enthusiasm, one chubby man from Osaka bashed his bowed head into mine. We patted each other’s hair and laughed.

Back to the thumbnails...