Sitting down at my home this evening with my husband, I realized that all the volunteer work I have been involved is making me such a wealthy person.

The concept of wealth is a relative one, so let me explain my definition. I measure wealth in terms of human capital. I may not be considered a wealthy person financially, but I have met beautiful people through my volunteer work and they are enriching my life to a degree that I never expected.

I feel so lucky to have these meaningful human relationships, because they are the most important thing in our lives. Financial capital can give us temporary convenience and entertainment, but it does not give us a sense of peace or happiness.

My favorite Japanese poet, Mitsuo Aida, said: “The winner of life is the person who is more impressed and moved by the beauty of nature and the kindness of human beings than others.”

I hope Ibasho can provide the opportunities for others to gain more human capital.