“90 seconds left until human extinction.”

This is a measure of how close humanity is to self-destruction through the very technologies we have created. It is represented by a symbolic clock, with midnight standing for the end of humankind. When the risks rise, the hands move forward, shortening the time left. When the risks recede, the hands are turned back, granting more time. This is called the Doomsday Clock.

When it was first announced in 1947, the time stood at seven minutes to midnight. Last year, it was advanced to only 90 seconds. It feels as though seeking happiness solely in the external world has reached its limits. Perhaps now is the time to turn inward and face our own hearts.

The most delicious way to brew tea is said to be with water at around 60°C for the first steeping. It brings out a natural sweetness and is exquisite. The second steeping, at 80°C, becomes slightly bitter, but many find this depth of flavor truly enjoyable.

The third steeping, at 90°C, produces tea that has color but almost no taste—this is known as degara-shi, “tea leaves spent of flavor.” Few people would enjoy it. Yet Sen no Rikyū called this tanmi—“the taste of blandness”—and taught, “If you cannot appreciate blandness, you cannot understand the true flavor of life.” This teaching highlights the importance of the heart’s perspective.

Oyasama Miki Nakayama, in the midst of hardship with no rice for the next day, taught: “When you drink water, it has the taste of water.” Even while the outer world heads toward an end, what truly matters is how the inner self perceives it. That is where the essence of happiness lies.

Rather than chasing after happy circumstances, we should nurture within ourselves the ability to feel happiness. Rather than grasping for joy, we should change the way we view the world and awaken to the joy already present. This, I believe, is the great power of faith.

Through the teachings of Tenrikyo, you can learn a way of living. If you are burdened with worries or unable to find joy in life, please feel free to visit our church to discover a path toward a life filled with gratitude and joy.

Surely, your troubles will feel lighter, and the events in your life will begin to turn for the better.

You can be happy—just as you are.