Daily Encouragement - 11 Jul 2011

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda Monday, July 11, 2011   It is important that youth in particular actively seek challenges to forge and strengthen themselves. Those who enjoy material luxury from a young age and do not work hard cannot become people of outstanding character. They cannot become great leaders who protect the people. I hope that you will work hard, sparing no effort, and develop yourselves as indomitable champions, shaken or disheartened by nothing. Events 1951 Young men's division established.    From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin Monday, July 11, 2011 Neither the pure land nor hell exists outside ourselves; both lie only within one's own heart. Awakened to this truth, one is called a Buddha; deluded about it, one is called an ordinary person. The Lotus Sutra reveals this truth, and one who embraces the Lotus Sutra will realize that hell is itself the Land of Tranquil Light.   The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 456 Hell is the Land of Tranquil Light Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu's mother on July 11, 1274     Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda Monday, July 11, 2011   The heart of the Buddha's lifetime of teachings is the Lotus Sutra, and the heart of the practice of the Lotus Sutra is found in the "Never Disparaging" chapter. What does Bodhisattva Never Disparaging's profound respect for people signify? The purpose of the appearance in this world of Shakyamuni Buddha, the lord of teachings, lies in his behaviour as a human being - Nichiren     Sensei on Difficulties  - Words of Wisdom   Defeat lies not in failing or making mistakes; rather, it lies in giving up on ourselves when we do so.