Misono - Sacred Garden of Japan

Commemorating Mikotosama's Passing

Jahmil Prescott

Jahmil Prescott is one of Shumei’s first America-born members and Master of Ceremony at Shumei America’s National Center in Pasadena, CA.

Can you remember a person who left a serious impression on your life, then left the world as we know it very quickly? I met Mikotosama in January, 1984. I knew he was wise and clever from the day we first met.

At the time I became a member of Shumei on September, 1983. I knew I was beginning a new stage in my life and realized the spiritual world is part of me and my life.

In January, 1984, I was informed that Mikotosama was coming to Los Angeles. I knew that he was the leader of Shumei, and that he was very dedicated to his thirteen-year project: Developing what we know today as the “Sacred Garden” at Misono.

Mikotosama was welcomed by many American friends and members. I was honored to greet him, toast champagne with him, and photograph him. I felt something very warm from the moment I met him. He told me that I should come to Japan for the Grand Sampai, held each year in early May in Misono. From that point on, I didn't require any more encouragement.

That evening Mikotosama asked that Sensei Eugene Imai, Pauline Lomas, and I meet together. It was then that we discussed the youth in America, drugs, nutrition, and social ignorance. This was a rare and memorable event that will be in my life always. Mikotosama brought the spirit of Meishusama to great heights, and he impressed upon me great dedication, trust, love, service, and gratitude for others.

When he led the chant and gave mass Jyorei to the members of Shumei America at the Hollywood Center, I felt something I had never felt before come over me, and from that point I was spiritually reborn. Mikotosama is ever present in my life and I urge all of you to take the opportunity to receive Jyorei.

I will always thank Mikotosama. Mikotosama was determined to help the world with Meishusama's teachings. In America I am very grateful for his sincerity in motivating others.

We are givers of Light. Now that we give Light, let us remember Mikotosama. He said, Jyorei is a healing power. It is a particular way of praying for others. We have to die--go to the spiritual world. We are coming home to the spiritual world. We should appreciate death and birth--it is the spiritual world. The spiritual world is perpetual and purification is essential.

Let's remember his message and the inspiration of his leadership on July 11th when we commemorate the anniversary of his passing.

Edited for Shumei website.