Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, May 10, 2012
The state of mind with which we meet our death will greatly influence the course of our lives over eternity. Granted, if one is unconcerned by how one dies, or if one dismisses any connection between this existence and the next, then there probably isn't any need to practice the Daishonin's Buddhism. But the truth is that life is eternal, that our existence continues even after we die. Moreover, during the latent stage of death before rebirth, we cannot change the essence of our lives, we cannot carry out Buddhist practice. Only while we are alive as human beings can we practice Buddhism.
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, May 10, 2012
A woman who takes this efficacious medicine will be surrounded and protected by these four great bodhisattvas at all times. When she rises to her feet, so too will the bodhisattvas, and when she walks along the road, they will also do the same. She and they will be as inseparable as a body and its shadow, as fish and water, as a voice and its echo, or as the moon and its light.
On Offering Prayers to the Mandala of the Mystic Law
Recipient and date unknown
Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Children remember all their lives mothers who are always optimistic and generous toward society and the community and who live creatively. That kind of behaviour provides the finest possible nourishment for learning how to build a happy home life. It is important for married couples, while giving full rein to their individual characteristics, to cooperate for the happiness of the children, the family and society.
Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1955) p.238
My health has slightly improved. I envy others' healthy vigor. My wife also seems tired from pushing herself beyond reason. Lately, she seems dispirited.
Must become healthy. I have been causing everyone to worry and am not completing my own work. First, chant daimoku. Second, sleep well. Third, take care of my health. Must be especially careful, put these things into practice and have patience. After all, "Buddhism is common sense."
Today's "Wisdom for Modern life" -should have been the foundation for many social media discussions re: Terrell Owens's appearance on Dr. Phil but somehow it was lost. Thank you for posting it today - It is a beautiful reminder of "children first"
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