Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 31 October 2011

  

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, October 31, 2011

 

It is only natural that sometimes we fall sick. But we must see that sickness as a sickness that originally exists in life, based on the principle of the Mystic Law. In other words, there is no reason to allow yourself to be controlled by illness, for it to fill your life with suffering and distress. From the standpoint of eternal life through the three existences, your fundamentally happy self is incontrovertibly established.

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, October 31, 2011

 

Question: Is it possible, without understanding the meaning of the Lotus Sutra, but merely by chanting the five or seven characters of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo once a day, once a month, or simply once a year, once a decade, or once in a lifetime, to avoid being drawn into trivial or serious acts of evil, to escape falling into the four evil paths, and instead to eventually reach the stage of non-regression? Answer: Yes, it is.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 141
The Daimoku of the Lotus Sutra 
Recipient unknown; written on January 6, 1266

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, October 31, 2011

 

Death does not discriminate; it strips of us everything. Fame, wealth and power are all useless in the unadorned reality of the final moments of life. When the time comes, we will have only ourselves to rely on. This is a solemn confrontation that we must face armed only with our raw humanity, the actual record of what we have done, how we have chosen to live our lives, asking, "Have I lived true to myself? What have I contributed to the world? What are my satisfactions or regrets?"

 

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1950) p.63

 

 

Discussed our company's reconstruction all day with Mr Toda.  Many things to do and many hardships to overcome.  Many passionate thoughts and emotional feelings.

With my common mortal's wisdom, I can accomplish nothing.  But confident of the teaching that because our wisdom is inadequate, we substitute faith, I chant daimoku single-mindedly and exert myself to the utmost in the cause of construction.

... 

My room is so cold.  Yet when I chant daimoku, my entire being seems to warm up.  It is most strange, indeed.

 

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 30 October 2011

 

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, October 30, 2011

 

The Gohonzon is the concrete manifestation of the very existence of Nichiren Daishonin, who taught kosen-rufu. Because of that, if you only practice gongyo and chant daimoku and don't take any other action for the sake of kosen-rufu or improving your own life, the Gohonzon will not have its true, full effect. If, however, you take actions to achieve kosen-rufu, they will serve as that extra push for your own life and help you leap to higher and higher states of mind in your gongyo and chanting as well.

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, October 30, 2011

 

Shakyamuni's practices and the virtues he consequently attained are all contained within the five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo. If we believe in these five characters, we will naturally be granted the same benefits as he was.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 365
The Object of Devotion for Observing the Mind Established in the Fifth Five-Hundred-Year Period af the Thus Come One's Passing
Written to Toki Jonin on April 25, 1273

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, October 30, 2011

 

If you allow the passing of time to let you forget the lofty vows of your youth, you stand to block the source of your own boundless good fortune and sever the roots of limitless prosperity for your family and loved ones as well. Please never let this happen. Only by remaining steadfast to the vows we have made in our youth can we shine as true victors in life.

 

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1950) p.62

 

 

Read "On Practicing the Buddha's Teachings."

Deeply realized the necessity of courageous faith.

Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.

In the end, our powers of faith and practice determine everything.  The Gohonzon possesses the power of the Buddha and the Law.  Only by our own faith can we prove, test and acquire the great power of the supreme Law embodied in the Gohonzon.

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 29 October 2011

  

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, October 29, 2011

 

Gongyo is a practice that calls forth and activates the infinite power that the microcosm inherently possesses. It transforms your fate, breaks through any apparent dead ends and converts sufferings into happiness. It creates a transformation, a revolution of the microcosm. It is a diagram in miniature of kosen-rufu in our lives.

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, October 29, 2011

 

If a boat is handled by an unskilled steersman, it may capsize and drown everyone aboard. Likewise, though someone may have great physical strength, if he lacks a resolute spirit, even his many abilities will be of no use.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 614
The Supremacy of the Law 
Written to Oto and her mother, Nichimyo, on August 4, 1275

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, October 29, 2011

 

As you meet various trials and difficulties, thus polishing all the many facets of the jewel which is life, you will learn to walk that supreme pathway of humanity. Of this, I am confident, and I am confident too that those who embrace life's native creativity now stand and will continue to stand in the vanguard of history. Bringing the creativity of life to its fullest flowering is the work of human revolution. Carrying out this kind of human revolution is your mission now as it will be throughout your lives.  

 

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1950) p.56

 

 

My mind has been slow all day.  Is this my lack of faith?  

A full three years have passed since my conversion.  I will make this a starting point toward the next stage.  I need a renewed self-awakening in faith.  I must chant daimoku to open the curtain on the next scene.  I shall spur on my weak self.

 

Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 28 October 2011

 

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, October 28, 2011

 

It may seem perfectly all right to put ourselves and our own wishes first, to simply follow the dictates of our emotions and cravings, but the truth is that there is nothing more unreliable than our own mind. Life doesn't always go like clockwork and things will not necessarily turn out as we hope or plan. Consequently, Nichiren Daishonin frequently stressed: You should become the master of your mind, not let your mind master you. We mustn't allow ourselves to be ruled by a self-centered mind. Rather, we have to discipline our mind and gain mastery over it. This is the Daishonin's strict admonition.

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, October 28, 2011

 

Showing profound compassion for those unable to comprehend the gem of the doctrine of three thousand realms in a single moment of life, the Buddha wrapped it within the five characters [of Myoho-renge-kyo], with which he then adorned the necks of the ignorant people of the latter age.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 376
The Object of Devotion for Observing the Mind Established in the Fifth Five-Hundred-Year Period after the Thus Come One's Passing 
Written to Toki Jonin on April 25, 1273

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, October 28, 2011

 

Shakyamuni Buddha explained the fundamental spirit of Buddhism as a sense of individual responsibility. "You are your only master. Who else? Subdue yourself and discover your master." In other words, we must each take responsibility for our own self-discipline and for cultivating meaningful lives. 

 

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1950) p.38

 

A thoroughly hot, miserable day.  Discussion meeting at K.'s. Home at 11:00.  Returned with T. and the others.

Reflected on these points:

1. Don't be conceited.

2. Don't speak ill of others.

3. Don't get entangled with weak-spirited people.

4. Don't waste money.

5. Don't talk too much.

To bed at 1:00

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 27 October 2011

 

 

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, October 27, 2011

 

Whether we regard difficulties in life as misfortunes or whether we view them as good fortune depends entirely on how much we have forged our inner determination. It all depends on our attitude or inner state of life. With a dauntless spirit, we can lead a cheerful and thoroughly enjoyable life. We can develop a "self" of such fortitude that we can look forward to life's trials and tribulations with a sense of profound elation and joy: "Come on obstacles! I've been expecting you! This is the chance that I've been waiting for!"

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Thursday, October 27, 2011

 

The function of fire is to burn and give light. The function of water is to wash away filth. The winds blow away dust and breathe life into plants, animals and human beings. The earth nourishes the grasses and trees, and heaven provides nourishing moisture. The five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo are also like that. They are the cluster of blessings brought by the Bodhisattvas of the Earth, disciples of the Buddha in his true identity.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 218
The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life 
Written to Sairen-bo Nichijo on February 11, 1272

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Thursday, October 27, 2011

 

Literature that works to refine, deepen and save the human soul is akin to a religion that elevates and binds people together. And the texts of great religions, such as the Bible and the Buddhist scriptures, make great literature. Literature and religion are parts of the human heritage, and determining how to use that heritage is essential to our further growth as human beings.

 

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1950) p.31

Somebody once said that people's minds are smaller than beans, and only a hero knows a hero's heart.  Someone else said: "Let those who laugh, laugh.  Let those who slander you say what they will."

Fools cannot possibly grasp the great principles of the Daishonin's Buddhism.  You who criticize, go ahead and criticize if you wish.  Because of you, I can attain my enlightenment.

 

  

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 26 October 2011

 

 

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, October 26, 2011

 

I hope that, basing yourself on faith, you will become wealthy people of virtue and influence who are widely respected. I would like to add, however, that worldly success is not equivalent to true happiness. Achieving this requires that we have a profound understanding of the nature of life. A person of success in the true sense is one who can enjoy a free and unrestrained state of life.

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

 

Life is the foremost of all treasures. It is expounded that even the treasures of the entire major world system cannot equal the value of one's body and life.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1125
The Gift of Rice 
Recipient and date unknown

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

 

Buddhism is a movement emphasizing self-education with the aim of unlocking and developing our inherent Buddha nature while at the same time bringing forth diverse wisdom and using various expedient means to help others tap their Buddhahood. This development of potential, this education of oneself and others, is the noblest path a human being can ever pursue.

 

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1950) p.23

 

"Appreciation for one's parents is so fundamental that one scarcely need speak of it, but I particularly respect the kindness of my mother which is indelibly etched upon my heart." - (GZ, 398)

Courage is a special talent of youth.  To make my mother and father happy, rebuild our business, establish my own foundation and save the nation - courage is the root of it all. 

Moved to tears by the Daishonin's concern for his mother.

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 25 October 2011

  

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, October 25, 2011

 

 

It is the sharp sword of the Mystic Law and the great power of faith that enable us to completely sever the chains of suffering. Therefore, I wish to make it clear that to secure eternal freedom and happiness, you must absolutely not be cowardly, especially in faith.

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, October 25, 2011

 

Moreover, I chant the daimoku, which is the heart and core of the entire sutra, and I urge others to do likewise. Although the mugwort growing in a hemp field or wood marked for cutting with an inked line may not be straight to begin with, they will as a matter of course become so. In the same way, one who chants the daimoku as the Lotus Sutra teaches will never have a twisted mind. For one should know that, unless the mind of the Buddha enters into our bodies, we cannot in fact chant the daimoku.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 670
The Blessings of the Lotus Sutra 
Written to Myomitsu on March 5, 1276

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

 

Health is not simply a matter of absence of illness. Health means constant challenge. Constant creativity. A prolific life always moving forward, opening up fresh new vistas - that is a life of true health. An unbeatable spirit is what supplies the power to keep pressing ahead.

 

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1950) p.22

Great achievements are the extension of smaller ones.  Must remember that a succession of small achievements leads to great success.  Victory is won only by building patiently, step by step, in the present moment.

Plain, honest work, day by day, unknown to anyone - that is important.  Time alone will reveal my actions to the world.

Will embrace the True Law and strive day by day.  Will hold no task beneath me.

 

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 24 October 2011

 

 

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, October 24, 2011

 

The only way to succeed is by first bringing to completion that which is most immediate. This principle applies in all affairs - in our daily lives, our work and our families as well as in the progress of kosen-rufu.

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, October 24, 2011

 

The sutra known as the Lotus Sutra is a scripture that has no match among all the sacred teachings of the Buddha's lifetime. And, as indicated by its words "between Buddhas," it can only be understood between one Buddha and another. Those at the stage of near-perfect enlightenment or below, on down to ordinary mortals, cannot fathom it. This is why Bodhisattva Nagarjuna stated in his Treatise on the Great Perfection of Wisdom that persons below the level of Buddha should simply have faith, and in that way they can attain Buddhahood.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1072
Reply to the Mother of Ueno 
Written tot he lay nun Ueno on October 24, 1280

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, October 24, 2011

 

What one has done for another yesterday will be done for oneself today. Blossoms turn into fruit, and brides become mothers-in-law. Chant Nam-myohorenge- kyo, and be always diligent in your faith - Nichiren

 

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1950) p.21

 

 

A mind that perceives life to be as vast as the universe.  A heart that pursues eternal beauty.  Unshakable conviction that glows like red-hot iron.  I shall strive to acquire them all.  To serve humanity and the world.  To love and guide the nation.

Let people laugh if they wish to.  Let them rage if they so desire.  Their abuse means nothing.

What matters is to carry out the true practice of Buddhism.  That demands unusual effort. Those efforts, moreover, will surely lead to the great way of happiness.

 

  

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 23 October 2011

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, October 23, 2011

 

As far as the fundamental teachings of Buddhism and the Gosho are concerned, I hope that, regarding them as absolutely correct, you will first and foremost strive to put them into practice. I urge you to do so because this is the shortest route to understanding the essence of Buddhism in the depths of your life.

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, October 23, 2011

 

No matter how earnestly Nichiren prays for you, if you lack faith, it will be like trying to set fire to wet tinder. Spur yourself to muster the power of faith. Regard your survival as wondrous. Employ the strategy of the Lotus Sutra before any other.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1000
The Strategy of the Lotus Sutra 
Written to Shijo Kingo on October 23, 1279

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Sunday, October 23, 2011

 

The misfortune of others is our misfortune. Our happiness is the happiness of others. To see ourselves in others and feel an inner oneness and sense of unity with them represents a fundamental revolution in the way we view and live our lives. Therefore, discriminating against another person is the same as discriminating against oneself. When we hurt another, we are hurting ourselves. And when we respect others, we respect and elevate our own lives as well.

 

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1950) - p20

 

 Am I tired from all our struggles?  My physical condition is extremely bad.

Shall a disciple of Nichiren Daishonin be defeated?  Never!  Burn with great conviction!  Faith, arise!

 

 

Points to remember from today on:

 

1. Study Buddhism.

2. Cut down on expenses.

3. Live productively.

 

  

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 22 October 2011

 
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, October 22, 2011

 

The main point is to enable one member to stand up by imparting heartfelt assurance and understanding. It is the explosion of faith in the microcosm of an individual that causes the macrocosm of the organization -a gathering of many such individuals - to commence its revolution. This is how the doctrine of a life-moment possesses 3,000 realms applies to our practice.

 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, October 22, 2011

 

Although unworthy, I propagate the Lotus Sutra; hence heavenly devils have competed to deprive me of food. Understanding this, I have no complaint, but I believe that I survived this time only because Shakyamuni Buddha entered your body to help me.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 952
General Stone Tiger
Written to Shijo Kingo on October 22, 1278

 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Saturday, October 22, 2011

 

Any position, honour or wealth we may gain we will possess only during our present existence. But the unshakable state of life we develop through faith in Nam-myoho-renge-kyo represents our greatest spiritual treasure.

 

 

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A Youthful Diary (p12)

Physically exhausted.  Night school begins to seem impossible.
Things seem very hard for Mr Toda, too.
What is your purpose?  Religious revolution.
What is religious revolution?  The straight road to human happiness.
What are the means to win religious revolution?
Carrying out the supreme philosophy myself.
Grasping and mastering the basis myself.

   

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