Dharma Message

Let me take you back to elementary school science. We studied about mammals (this includes humans).
Mammals are warm-bloodied vertebrae animals characterized by milk-producing glands, have hair or fur, and a
spine. They possess ear bones. Female mammals give birth to well-developed live young ones after growing in
the mother. Female mammals feed their young ones with milk, and they have a more well-developed brain.

Seasonal change affects mammals. As Autumn approaches, we as mammals notice various changes in our
physical, mental and at times, emotional state. We notice the change in daylight and feel the cooler
temperatures at night. Our skin may be feeling drier because there is less moisture in the air or perhaps the
furnace has been turning on to take the “chill out of the air”, which can strip hydration from the skin.

With earlier sunsets and cooler evenings, our sleeping patterns are shifting. Autumn temperature alters the
circadian (biological internal clock) rhythms. Our internal clock is making the body feel sleepy earlier or it may
also be increasing our sleeping hours. The reduced daylight triggers our melatonin (hormone that helps us to fall
asleep) differently. There is an increase of serotonin (chemical “messenger” that carry signals between nerve
cells in the brain throughout the body) transporters that can affect our mood, emotions and energy.

We crave denser or higher caloric food and tend to store more fat needed to maintain the core body
temperature. The body is preparing for the winter energy demands. Even our hair shedding is less in Autumn.
Our hair may feel thicker for hair is a form of protection from the cold. We are definitely feeling the change in our
body and seeing some changes in the environment. Our body is naturally adapting to the season. However, the
environment is a bit confused. Autumn is a time when leaves change colors, die and fall from the tree. With the
warm weather we have been having, the trees are growing new leaves. Just last week, I saw cherry blossoms
on the tree at the church. We as mammals know and are changing too, no matter what.

Autumn can be a time of reflection. While sipping hot chocolate with whipped cream and marshmallows, and
wrapped in a snuggle blanket, we can reminisce about the summer, vacations and the frolicking. With Autumn
having us staying inside earlier, \we may have a bit more “time on our hands”. We can take a breather from our
hectic day or spend more time with our loved ones. Yet Autumn can also be a time to discover more about our
true self or deepening our understanding of our Nembutsu/Namu Amida Butsu. We reflect on the teachings of
Buddha and perhaps, some can gain answers to their questions. The Autumn months can have us think, hear
and question with more clarity and understanding.

We cannot measure when or where the “one-thought moment” of true entrusting will enter our hearts and minds.
However, when we do encounter that entrusting moment, we can perhaps have a more peaceful life, quiet mind
and joyful heart. This entrusting is not easy, yet we have Namu Amida Butsu to share its guidance and direction.
My question is, do we have the ears to hear, mind to seek and eyes to see the way of the Dharma?
Autumn is a season of change. Changes of our biological clocks and “a time to rectify the unsettledness of the
heart” and Nembutsu. Autumn is a continuous learning cycle and feasting (have to maintain body heat). Enjoy!

Gassho,
Rev. Naomi Nakano