The years pass quietly but surely.
I realize that I am now well into my twilight years. But instead of sadness or regret, I now look back on this life with a peaceful contentment.
Since settling into my little house in the country, the passage of time has become softer and more palatable. Sipping coffee by the window, I spend time reminiscing about the days when I was young.
The passions, failures, laughter, and tears of those days. They come to life in my mind as if I were leafing through an old photo album. Memories are a mysterious thing. The further away they become, the more beautiful they become, and the more gently they light up the depths of my heart.
The landscape outside my window tells me the seasons of my life.
The fresh green leaves of spring remind me of new beginnings, the lush green trees of summer remind me of youth and vitality, the autumn leaves remind me of fruitfulness and maturity, and the snowy landscape of winter reminds me of quiet reflection and rest.
I may be standing in the winter of my life right now. But it is not a lonely time, but rather a season of abundance.
The chinchilla cat by my side, still as a guardian of time, shares in my quiet moments. Whenever I place my hand on its soft fur, the warmth of its fur seeps into my heart.
Looking back, I realize how well I have lived. I am now quietly chewing on the happiness of being able to think so.
【発行日】1942年（昭和17年）12月8日
