Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 18 October 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda Thursday, October 18, 2012   A victor is one whose life shines with faith. Emerson, one of the favourite writers of my youth, once said, "That which befits us...is cheerfulness and courage, and the endeavour to realize our aspirations." To advance toward our dreams cheerfully, to courageously work toward achieving them - this is what gives sublime meaning and value to our lives.     From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin Thursday, October 18, 2012   Without exception, all these Buddhas, bodhisattvas, great sages, and, in general, all the various beings of the two worlds and the eight groups who appear in the "Introduction" chapter of the Lotus Sutra dwell in the Gohonzon. Illuminated by light of the five characters of the Mystic Law, they display the dignified attributes they inherently possess. This is the object of devotion. The Real Aspect of the Gohonzon Written to Nichinyo on August 23, 1277     Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda Thursday, October 18, 2012   Such things as money, fame, and material possessions offer a fleeting satisfaction, something that can be called relative happiness. However, when we transform our lives internally, when we develop within ourselves a brilliant inner palace, then we can be said to have established absolute happiness. If we develop a state of mind as vast and resplendent as a magnificent palace, then nothing - no matter where we go or what we may encounter in life can undermine or destroy our happiness.     Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.388   Discussed Sensei's hospitalization with his son.  His wife said, "I want him to come home."  But the son suggested hospital care.  We also recommended Sensei check into a hospital.  In my heart, though, I hesitated about whether I should be responsible to honor Sensei's wish to "return to the headquarters." Feel as if I am falling into a bottomless abyss.  Lament my lack of strength as a disciple.  Ah… will I gain it in this lifetime?  Must take a strict look at myself.  To make up for this, I have no choice but to carry through with Sensei's spirit throughout my life.