Daily Encouragement - 05 August 2011

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda Friday, August 5, 2011 We cannot build true character if we allow ourselves to be swayed by passing praise or censure. "Don't concern yourself with petty criticisms! Commune constantly with fine books and fine people and improve yourself!" This was the creed by which Mr. Makiguchi and Mr. Toda lived their lives. From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin Friday, August 5, 2011 The great lantern that illuminates the long night of the sufferings of birth and death, the sharp sword that severs the fundamental darkness inherent in life, is none other than the Lotus Sutra. The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1038 A Comparison of the Lotus and Other Sutras Written to Toki Jonin on May 26, 1280 Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda Friday, August 5, 2011 Buddhist optimism is not the escapist optimism of those who throw up their hands and say, "Somehow or other things will work out." Rather it means clearly recognizing evil as evil and suffering as suffering and resolutely fighting to overcome it. It means believing in one's ability and strength to struggle against any evil or any obstacle. It is to possess a fighting optimism. Sensei on Human Relationships - Words of Wisdom   In order to overcome our prejudices, we must constantly strive to develop the habit of looking at ourselves from the point of view of others. Realizing that all people have both good points and bad, in the end the important thing is to strive to combat our own inner obstinacy and narrow-mindedness.