In the chapter on indigenous religions, you may have reflected upon special places in nature that have meaning to you. Shinto also values such places that can actually become part of one's identity. Another idea Shinto could convey is that every place is unique and special (the kami are everywhere). Consider where you live now. What makes it special and unique?
Another related reflection is based on the idea that indigenous religions contain stories on how a particular people came to a place. Shinto has stories about the creation of Japan, how the first people arrived there, and the adventures that shaped them in this land. Consider where you now live. What brought you to this place and how has this place brought you to you?
Washing, sweeping, and cleaning have religious significance in Shinto. Reflect on how you feel after a shower or after you've cleaned and organized a room. From the Shinto perspective, the cleansing and self-discipline required is an exercise of purification. Relevant is the recommendation of some psychologists that to make a change in our inner lives it helps to make change in our outer lives. Also remember the phrase grandmothers used to be fond of saying, "Cleanliness is next to godliness."
