Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 29 July 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda Sunday, July 29, 2012   The ultimate essence of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism lies in living on through to the very end, pressing ever forward, courageously taking on each new challenge we encounter and never giving up. Constructing eternal glory - the state of Buddhahood within our own lives is the purpose of our Buddhist practice in this lifetime. Hence the Daishonin's constant urging that we make tenacious efforts in the present.     From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin Sunday, July 29, 2012   Believe in the Gohonzon with all your heart, for it is the robe to protect you in the world after death. No wife would ever leave her husband unclothed, nor could any parents fail to feel compassion for their child shivering in the cold. Shakyamuni Buddha and the Lotus Sutra are like one's wife and parents. You have helped me and thereby saved me from disgrace in this life; in return, I will protect you from disgrace in the next. What one has done for another yesterday, will be done for oneself today.   The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 994 Letter to Jakunichi-bo Written to Jakunichi-bo Niike on September 16, 1279     Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda Sunday, July 29, 2012   Compassion is the very soul of Buddhism. To pray for others, making their problems and anguish our own; to embrace those who are suffering, becoming their greatest ally; to continue giving them our support and encouragement until they become truly happy - it is in such humanistic actions that Nichiren Buddhism lives and breathes.     Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1957) p.331   Sensei has begun another "Orally Transmitted Teachings" lecture.  My heart pounds when I listen to his fine lectures.  The power of insight and foresight that derives from a grand philosophy.  Words and expressions that derive from an enlightened state of life.  Ashamed of myself; can only lament my own lack of ability.  Left with the top leaders, feeling forlorn.  Faith is not to be found in sentimentalism.  Must use Shijo Kingo's faith as a mirror for myself.  Rather, unless I surpass him as a leader, kosen-rufu will be impossible.  Must not lose.  Must never lose to obstacles and devils.  Challenge myself.