Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
You can forge the path to a fulfilling and enjoyable life if you have the depth of faith to regard everything as a source for creating happiness and value. Conversely, if you see everything only in a negative or pessimistic light, your life will gradually but inevitably be plunged into darkness. Buddhism teaches the subtle principle of ichinen, and moreover, the power of faith.
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Since you now appear certain to attain Buddhahood, perhaps the heavenly devil and evil spirits are using illness to try to intimidate you. Life in this world is limited. Never be even the least bit afraid!".
The Proof of the Lotus Sutra
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on February 28, 1282
Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Make goals. Whether big or small, work toward realizing them. You must be serious about and dedicated to your goals - you'll get nowhere if you just treat them like jokes. An earnest, dedicated spirit shines like a diamond and moves people's hearts. That is because a brilliant flame burns within. If we are sincere, people will understand our intentions, and our positive qualities will shine forth. It is pointless to be caught up in outward appearances. The German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe writes: "How may one get to know oneself? Never by contemplation,only , indeed, by action. Seek to do your duty, and you will know at once how it is with you."
Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1954) p. 177
Periodically, ideals and reality mix and my mind becomes very complex. There are times I want to blame others, while overlooking my own faults. Must not forget to self-reflect and consider my own shortcomings.
No comments:
Post a Comment