Backbones and Pillars: Karen Masuda

Laura is the only child of a clergyman and his wife, living in mid-west America. One day she is introduced to Buddhism through a missionary man speaking at her father's church. Her interest flourishes and she is drawn to Japan where she decides to go after her graduation from University. In Japan, Laura meets and marries her monk husband Takehiro. Her own parents are dismayed, and she is not sure of how anybody but Obaachan feels in Takehiro's family. But she dives into a new life at the Temple enthusiastically, determined to make it work. Through her daily life in Japan Laura becomes a part of those around her and proves to be a strong hold in temple life. The rough edges smooth out and the way becomes clear in the lives of Laura and her family.