Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 28 November 2011

 

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, November 28, 2011

Nichiren Daishonin discusses the meaning of the Chinese characters for the word benefit (Jpn kudoku), as follows: "The ku of kudoku means to extinguish evil and doku means to bring forth good" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 762). We fight against those who try to destroy the True Law. That struggle purifies us and brings forth benefits in our lives. Justice or happiness without a battle is just an illusion. Thinking that happiness means a life free of hard work and effort is fantasy.

Events

 

SGI Day of Spiritual Independence
1991 Nichiren Shoshu excommunicates 12 million SGI members worldwide.

 

 

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, November 28, 2011

 

Buddhism spreads according to the time and the people's capacity. Although I may not be worthy of this teaching, I expound it because the time is right.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 861
This is What I Heard
Written to the lay priest Soya Jiro on November 28, 1277

 

 

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, November 28, 2011

Many young women agonize over perceived personality flaws and a lack of self-confidence. Nichiren Buddhism, however, teaches the great path of human revolution that enables each of us to shine in our own unique way. With this philosophy, you can decisively overcome a weak and easily swayed life-state and become a person of strength and purpose. It will allow you to withstand the storms of suffering and build a rock-solid foundation that will support you throughout your entire precious lives.

 

 

Daisaku Ikeda – A Youthful Diary (1951) p. 118

 

The brilliant moon shining in the cold night sky makes me temporarily forget the whirlpool of intense struggle I am in the midst of.  How it calms my agitated mind, affording a respite to prepare me for tomorrow and the future!  This is the Buddhism of 'the oneness of body and mind.'  I have never before been as keenly aware of this principle, in my body, my spirit and my life, as I have this year.  Rather this year I sensed it so deeply I often felt alone or in anguish.