However, this may not be the only reason. Are we not all drawn to their “vigorous and youthful power,” the strong vitality that lies within them?

What Is the “Youth” That We Seek?

However, we would like to take a moment to consider that this vigorous and youthful power is not simply dependent on age.

The commonly accepted definition of “youth” relates to age and generation. In this case physical “youth” is indeed affected by age.

However, the condition which we define as “young” is arguably more affected by state of mind or action rather than physical age.

It was once extremely difficult to know people’s inner minds. However, with the popularization and globalization of the internet, the web is now filled with people’s deepest held thoughts. With this change it has

become more apparent that, although stereotypes representing each generation exist to a certain extent, generations can no longer be completely defined by such stereotypes.

For example, marketing tactics that target such generational stereotypes were once used as a common business strategy. However, today this strategy is criticized as being an outdated approach because it can no longer satisfy new social needs. In a sense, this is calling out for a revision of what “youth” is.

This is a progressive attitude that is sensitive to novelty and eager to try what is new. It is a future-oriented mindset that is not satisfied by the past or the present; it is one that pursues innovation, and is open-minded to change. Such a free spirit is open to society and people, and is unbound from all.

This form of “youth” is not affected by physical age and perpetually exists over time. This can be called the vivacity of the soul.

In GLA, there are seniors who retain this challenging spirit even when they have greatly surpassed the age of retirement in society. With the view “I will change myself,” they do not hesitate to take this step. They are deeply touched by the lives of others in their practice of the Study of the Soul, and take on a new way of living by accepting others’ practices as callings to themselves.

Although they age physically, the further they learn and practice the Study of the Soul, the younger their spirits become. They are “young” in that their souls remain vital and fresh regardless of their age.

To Keep Seeking for the Brilliance of the Soul

As we enter into March, the season when the radiance of life returns, we would like to contemplate true “youthfulness,” our own soul’s brilliance, and would like to seek that brilliance. It is a flexible and passionate heart, which is unaffected by its physical limitations. It has the ability to resonate deeply from within, with the brilliance of others’ souls.

Of course, if you are physically young, there is even more reason to follow this path.

You should challenge such new themes without fear and never cease “to change yourself.” Through that effort, I would like you to bring forth the brilliance of your soul that breathes in the depths of your heart.

Everyone’s soul harbors the power to live with strength and depth. It has the capacity to live serenely and remain unwavering despite any situation that may occur. The shining of the soul brings about nothing less than the unveiling of the true essence of your soul.

Preliminary translation as of May 20, 2015

GLA member-volunteers translated Takahashi Sensei’s words.
We would appreciate your feedback for the sake of our improvement.
Please feel free to write your thoughts or comments to us at:
inquiry@gla-intl.com
or mail to: International Dept., GLA
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