“The Substance of Life”
Life is filled with contradictions,
Which can be a cause of anguish.
People say, “Have a dream.”
But they also say, “Face reality.”
They say, “Win the race.”
But not everyone can be a winner.
They say, “Possibilities are infinite.”
But our time and our abilities are limited.
They say, “Try your best.”
But there is no guarantee of reward.
Affection and friendship are precious,
But they are also the root of many conflicts.
From the beginning of our lives to the end,
People dwell among all kinds of contradictions.
They seem like burdens to us,
But we should know that they are not.
The problems that you face
Contain life’s most important messages.
Face them sincerely and never flee,
And you will understand the substance of life.
「人生の厚み」
人生は矛盾に満ちている
苦悩の素といってもいいだろう
夢を持てと言われるが
現実を見ろとも言われる
競争に勝てと言われるが
全ての人が勝てるわけではない
可能性は無限だと言われるが
能力と時間は有限だ
何事も努力と言われるが
必ずしも報われるとは限らない
愛情や友情は人生の宝だが
トラブルや葛藤の火種でもある
人間は産まれてから死ぬまで
あらゆる矛盾に囲まれながら生きる
それは厄介者のように思えて
そうではないということを知るべきだ
自分に降りかかる諸問題こそ
人生の重要なメッセージなのだ
それに真摯に向かい合い決して逃げない
人生の厚みは、そうして生まれる