CategoryExperience

Opening up to my peers, I discover in myself a new kind of scientist—one who cares, above all, for people.

How a prayer for peace was passed from one generation to the next. We are Robin and Robert Benvenuti from Detroit, Michigan.

Searching for my father, I remember again and again a promise of hope.

Relying on the heart, I forge from pain a deep respect for all people.

Remembering our vow amid hardship, we transform karma and build eternal fortune. We are Akiko and Lee Look from Albany, California.

Seeking safety, I find again true family.

by Neeta JainSnoqualmie, Wash. “Look,” the father said, gingerly turning up his son’s feet, and I caught my breath at the sight of the blistering soles—second-degree burns. “He kicked off his shoes running around outside. I didn’t know he was hurt for most of the day, because he couldn’t tell me.” I thought of the

Homing in on one fear, I unite my family.

Embracing my vow to become a doctor for kosen-rufu, I face the fears that stand between me and my mission. I’m Sharif Fennell from New Orleans.

Seeking my true self, I find brotherhood at last.

In search of justice, I discover an old promise unbroken.

While I grieved my mother, the district I vowed to revive revives me.

Priming myself to appreciate even hardship, I become a person of true wealth. I’m Everett Boyd from New York.

Centered on prayer, I embrace the family I have.

by Anne SaracenoPortland, Ore. “Sketchy,” remarked a college friend from the West Hills. She meant the shuttered windows, the empty streets and the cars parked up and down the block in their overgrown lawns. I saw all this, but something else, too.  Wanting a second pair of eyes, I asked my other friend, Sanae, to

Going the extra mile, I discover true friendship in a vow to leave no one behind.

Planting seeds of trust and hope, I step into my mission as a poet for kosen-rufu. I’m Mónica Lladó from Puerto Rico.

Listening, I learn the way to rise above all suffering.

My journey of inner transformation from a directionless teen to a teacher empowering youth. I’m Sam Saldivar from Fresno, California.

Fighting for kosen-rufu, I find my voice and my calling.