In this land of kami-no-yama, I still miss you.
We are all longing for your wisdom.
As you know, we have lost our leader the Karmapa,
But it is comforting to have you as good friend and teacher.
The mirror has never stopped reflecting,
The kiku has never stopped blossoming.
Yumi still twangs,
Ya still fly.
Our students constantly practice and look forward to your further teaching.
I, your friend, am getting old and sick,
But still my heart’s blood turns into liquid iron.
The strength of appreciation for the warrior heritage
Is part of my metallic blood,
And my bones are made out of meteoric iron.
Profound respect to you, Sensei, on your birthday.
May the Great Eastern Sun continuously arise in your life, with happiness and prosperity.
