Happy Science not so complicated, spokesman says

They say money can't buy happiness.

But how about meditation? Can you think yourself to happiness?

"Absolutely," says Yuki Oikawa. And he ought to know. Born in Tokyo, his name means "happiness."

Oikawa is chief executive officer of Happy Science USA and a traveling spiritual teacher for the nonprofit group.

He was raised a Christian in a country largely populated by Buddhists. Although he loved his faith, he was conflicted that religion seemed to be such a dividing force.

That's when he discovered Master Ryuho Okawa, Japan's "Living Buddha" and founder of the Happy Science movement, which claims some 10 million followers in 70 countries.

"I was so focused on myself. Happy science taught me I could find happiness by concentrating on others," says Oikawa, who used to deal in equities and private funds in the financial market.

On Wednesday, he gives a free introduction to Happy Science from 7 to 9 p.m. at The InterContinental Hotel, 4860 W. Kennedy Blvd. in the Poinciana Room. Refreshments will be served. For information, call (813) 914-7771. (When you call that number, the guy who answers the phone sounds very happy.)

Followers practice an advanced form of meditation about 15 to 30 minutes a day (no pretzel-like yoga contortions; sitting in a chair is fine) to make a connection with the spiritual world. They also adhere to 10 life principles to develop their divine nature. Happy Science encourages people of all religions to join together in their search for "universal truth" and to help create a better world. No abandoning their chosen faith required.

Oikawa says he used to be stressed and miserable. Since immersing himself in the Happy Science teachings in the 1990s, he has a positive outlook and a renewed passion for life. Imagine that spiritual energy transmitted by 10 million others.

"If you're happy, you can spread it to others," he says. "We're in deeply troubled times. But we can pull out of it by widening our love and reaching a higher level of enlightenment."

Happy Science now operates three temples in the United States: New York City, Los Angles and San Francisco. In April, the organization opened a Tampa office at 12210 N. 56th St.

Reach Michelle Bearden at (813) 259-7613.

The 10 happy principles

Use these 10 principles to guide your life and Master Ryuko Okawa says you'll be on to a new and better age.

Happiness

Love

Mind

Enlightenment

Progress

Wisdom

Utopia

Salvation

Self-Reflection

Prayer