{Shikoku Hachijūhachikasho Meguri}
THE PEOPLE
You will frequently meet people who tell you you are 'erai' (great) and often offer settai. Accept it graciously as David Turkington suggests. Do not become too upset when you meet clods. There are faux-settai people just as there are genuine, kind helpful people.

As a Henro, as Turkington mentions, you have a duty, almost a responsibility to conduct yourself in an upright, honourable way, and to not lose your temper, keep a cool heart, and warmth to all you meet, accept with great graciousness and modesty all gifts offered, big and small, do not flatter too much, do not talk excessively or arrogantly, indeed be as 'Japanese' as you can, and this will win you many friends along the way. Humility is key. Listen. Don't talk. Be patient. Receptive. Generous in mind and spirit. This may be one of the meanings of the Henro for the walkers as well as those who encourage you along the way.

Many of the Shikoku people have great faith in the Daishi and the Henro. It brings meaning to their lives. At some point, whether you are Buddhist or not, you would be an unfeeling sod to not become conscious of and moved by this.
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