Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 30 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Friday, November 30, 2012

 

President Toda often said: "Those of you who have problems or sufferings, pray earnestly! Buddhism is a deadly serious win-or-lose struggle. If you should [pray with such an earnest attitude] and still have no solution forthcoming, then I will give you my life!" This invincible conviction on which Mr. Toda was willing to stake his life inspired the members.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Friday, November 30, 2012

 

Though water may be muddied, it will again become clear. Though the moon may hide behind the clouds, it will surely reappear. Similarly, in time my innocence became apparent, and my predictions proved not to have been in vain.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1007

Letter to the Lay Priest Nakaoki

Written to the lay priest Nakaoki and his wife on November 30, 1279

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Friday, November 30, 2012

 

That we take pains to protect weapons while we expose children - the future of the race - to peril is impermissible. To ignore this absurdity will spell defeat for humanity. We must not live to destroy. We have the spiritual power to create peace and happiness.

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.418

 

Five months have passed since President Toda's death – long, truly agonizing months.  What course will my life take from here on?  Is it my destiny to continue this life-or-death struggle?

Attended a YMD and YWD join conference at the headquarters at 7:00 p.m. Spoke about the significance of our sports festivals.

Will never forget, for the rest of my life, those youth who are now fighting beside me.  Must impart philosophy to youth.  Must keep the promise I have made to them.

 

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

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Thursday, November 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 the Daishonin's Buddhism lives and breathes.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Thursday, November 29, 2012

 

Whether or not your prayer is answered will depend upon your faith; [if it is not,] I will in no way be to blame. When the water is clear, the moon is reflected. When the wind blows, the trees shake. Our minds are like the water. Faith that is weak is like muddy water, while faith that is brave is like clear water. Understand that the trees are like principles, and the wind that shakes them is like the recitation of the sutra.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1079

Reply to the Lay Nun Nichigon

Written to the lay nun Nichigon on November 29, 1280

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Thursday, November 29, 2012

 

Do not become subservient. Do not dwell on every tiny setback in the course of pursuing your chosen path. To do so would be foolish. Victory or defeat is determined by our entire lives. Moreover, our final years are the most crucial. What is enviable about the pretentious rich? What is great about conceited celebrities? What is admirable about political leaders who gained their positions of power by treating others with contempt? Dig right where you stand, for there lies a rich wellspring!

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.417

 

There are many media reports critical of the Gakkai.  Most are based on prejudice and ignorance, but we must also self-reflect.

We must naturally respect society, while challenging its irrationality.  This is the essence of Buddhism and of religious reformation.

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 28 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

 

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.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

 

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

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

 

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.

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.417

 

It's been getting cooler each morning and evening.  The scorching heat is gone.  Autumn is deepening.

How many springs and autumns will I see in my lifetime?  What will the future hold in ten or twenty years for those now exerting themselves with youthful energy? 

Is impermanence the essential aspect of all things?  Or is it permanence?

Read! Think! Get physically fit!

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 27 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

 

Faith is the ultimate essence of intellect. Through the practice of correct faith, the intellect comes to shine. Intellect without correct faith lacks a firm anchor in the soil of life and eventually becomes disordered. This prompted the first Soka Gakkai president, Tsunesaburo Makiguchi, to remark that many modern thinkers were suffering from what he termed "higher psychosis." Faith without intellect, meanwhile, leads to blind faith and fanaticism. Faith or intellect alone - one without the other - is unhealthy.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

 

Only in the Lotus Sutra do we read that a woman who embraces this sutra not only excels all other women, but also surpasses all men.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 462

The Unity of Husband and Wife

Written to Nichigen-nyo on January 27, 1275

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

 

The true victors in life are those who, enduring repeated challenges and setbacks, have sent the roots of their being to such a depth that nothing can shake them.

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.416

 

My thoothache has not let up since yesterday.  Felt feverish all day.

Have not seen a dentist in half a year.  What am I doing?

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Decided to go home early to get some rest.

Must read seriously.  Autumn is a season for tranquil contemplation. I will read.

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 26 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Monday, November 26, 2012

 

Buddhism teaches that being led astray by evil friends, (negative influences) is to be feared more than being killed by a mad elephant. A mad elephant can only destroy our physical body, but evil friends, if we allow ourselves to be influenced by them, will drag us down into a state of hell.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Monday, November 26, 2012

 

Even if we should gather all the water of the four great oceans to wet inkstones, burn all the trees and plants to cinders to make ink, collect the hairs of all beasts for writing brushes, employ all the surfaces of the worlds in the ten directions for paper and, with these, set down expressions of gratitude, how could we possibly repay our debt to the Buddha?"

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 44

The Four Debts of Gratitude

Written to Kudo Sakon-no-jo Yoshitaka on January 16, 1262

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Monday, November 26, 2012

 

 

Life is long. The important thing is to remain true to a lofty goal to the very end. Buddhism enables you to adorn the final chapter of your life with brilliant success, just as the golden sun colours the sky in glorious crimson hues and beams of sublime light. To do so, you need to keep making efforts year after year and winning year after year.

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.416

 

Attended the August headquarters leaders meeting at the Toshima Civic Auditorium.

Some leaders are serious; others move merely by force of habit. 

Some interpret things shallowly, for their own convenience; others live with perseverance.  Due to the law of cause and effect, clear proof will reveal itself one day.

A top leaders meeting at Jozai-ji.  The existence of one arrogant leader hampers the growth of many other people.  They become as miserable as children without parents.

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 25 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Sunday, November 25, 2012

 

Please do not forget your mother's love or the hardships she has endured for you. I am convinced that while people keep the memory of their mothers' loving faces alive in their mind, they will never go far astray. Similarly, as long as we bear in mind the Daishonin's profound compassion and live in deep appreciation of it, our lives will be illuminated brightly by the light of Buddhahood. And enveloped in the Gohonzon's great compassion, we will walk along a path that is filled with tranquillity and immeasurable joy.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Sunday, November 25, 2012

 

Strive ever harder in faith, and never give in to negligence. All the people appear to believe sincerely when they first embrace the Lotus Sutra, but as time passes, they tend to become less devout; they no longer revere nor make offerings to the priest, giving themselves up to arrogance and forming distorted views. This is most frightening.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1027

Letter to Niike

Written to Niike Saemon-no-jo in February 1280

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Sunday, November 25, 2012

 

Suppose that a person is standing at the foot of a tall embankment and is unable to ascend. And suppose that there is someone on top of the embankment who lowers a rope and says, "If you take hold of this rope, I will pull you up to the top of the embankment." If the person at the bottom begins to doubt that the other has the strength to pull him up, or wonders if the rope is not too weak and therefore refuses to put forth his hand and grasp it, then how is he ever to get to the top of the embankment? But if he follows the instructions, puts out his hand, and takes hold of the rope, then he can climb up – Nichiren

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.416

 

Exhausted all day. 

As I begin to charge ahead, cannot help my own turbulent feelings. 

Anger can be either good or evil.  It cannot be helped in the battle to spread the Law.

Now that the lion king is gone, have no choice but to roar as a young lion.

Gave strict guidance to N. of Hokkaido, R. of Kamata and S. – because they are so dear to me.

Sat alone on the porch and pondered how the priesthood, the Gakkai and kosen-rufu will have developed ten years from now.

Enjoyed the taste and aroma of the tea my wife made.

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 24 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Saturday, November 24, 2012

 

Rosa Parks wrote in her book Quiet Strength: "I find that if I am thinking too much of my own problems and the fact that at times things are not just like I want them to be, I do not make any progress at all. But if I look around and see what I can do, and then I do it, I move on." Youth, and indeed life itself, flashes by in the blink of an eye. That is why it is important for you young people to ask yourselves what you can do for those who are suffering, what you can do to resolve the contradictions that plague society and to boldly take on these great challenges.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Saturday, November 24, 2012

 

A person of wisdom is one who, understanding the time, spreads the teachings of the Lotus Sutra accordingly; this is his most important task. If a person's throat is dry, what he needs is water; he has no use for bows and arrows, weapons and sticks. If a person is naked, he wants a suit of clothes but has no need for water. From one or two examples you can guess the principle that applies in general.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 518

Letter to Horen

Written to Soya Kyoshin in April 1275

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Saturday, November 24, 2012

 

There is no one lonelier or more unhappy than a person who does not know the pure joy of creating a life for himself or herself. To be human is not merely to stand erect and manifest intelligence or knowledge. To be human in the full sense of the word is to lead a creative life. The struggle to create new life from within is a truly wonderful thing. There is found the brilliant wisdom that guides and directs the workings of reason; the light of insight that penetrates the farthest reaches of the universe; the undaunted will to see justice done that meets and challenges all the assaults of evil; the spirit of unbounded care that embraces all who suffer. When these are fused with that energy of compassion that pours forth from the deepest sources of cosmic life, an ecstatic rhythm arises to colour the lives of all people.

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.414

 

When I handed K. my business card, he immediately said, "I've already heard your name from President Toda."  Astonished at Sensei's foresight and initiative.

Hoping for a drastic change of the times, I returned to the headquarters.  Watch what we will accomplish in twenty years!

In seven years, will build the Grand Reception Hall.  In another seven, we will build the Sho-Hondo – the Grand Main Temple.  And after another seven years, in 1979, will take a great step forward toward kosen-rufu.  During the next seven-year period, what raging waves will arise before us?

My thoughts are limitless.  My ideas are unending.

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 23 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Friday, November 23, 2012

  

If I were to make an allegory, thought and philosophy would be like the heart or respiratory system of the human body. When the heart is sound, the whole body can maintain healthy activity. This same principle applies to both the individual and society. The SGI has a mission to serve as the heart that ensures the healthy functioning of society. Consequently, taking good care of the SGI, (the heart) allows the fresh life-giving blood of humanism to flow to and nourish all areas of society, including culture, politics and the economy.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Friday, November 23, 2012

 

You absolutely must not lament over my exile. It says in the "Encouraging Devotion" chapter and in the "Never Disparaging" chapter [that the votary of the Lotus Sutra will meet with persecution]. Life is limited; we must not begrudge it. What we should ultimately aspire to is the Buddha land.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 214

Aspiration for the Buddha Land

Written to Toki Jonin on November 23, 1271

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Friday, November 23, 2012

 

The purpose of Buddhism is to bring out the Buddha nature that all people inherently possess, to awaken people to it and enable them to attain Buddhahood. Moreover, the Lotus Sutra does not allow for any discrimination; all people are equally entitled to salvation.

 

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 Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.414

 

Attended a youth division meeting and a district chiefs meeting.  They have a greater seeking spirit than I do.  Respect them.

Resolved to further deepen my Buddhist study beginning in August.  Those who seriously exert themselves in study during this age of stagnation will show, after a few years, a remarkable difference from those who do not.  Must be careful.

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 22 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Thursday, November 22, 2012

 

There is a Russian proverb that says: "It is no use to blame the looking glass if your face is awry." Likewise, one's happiness or unhappiness is entirely the reflection of the balance of good and bad causes accumulated in one's life. No one can blame others for his misfortunes. In the world of faith, it is necessary to realize this all the more clearly.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Thursday, November 22, 2012

 

But now you, born a woman in the evil world of the latter age, while being reviled, struck and persecuted by the barbaric inhabitants of this island country who are unaware of these things, have endured and are propagating the Lotus Sutra. The Buddha at Eagle Peaksurely perceives that you surpass the nun [Mahaprajapate] as greatly as clouds do mud. The name of that nun, the Buddha Gladly Seen by All Living Beings, is no unrelated matter; it is now the name of the lay nun Myoho.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1106

Reply to the Lay Nun Myoho

Written to the lay nun Myoho in 1281

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Thursday, November 22, 2012

 

Wisdom, not might, is the most important thing. Wisdom and compassion are deeply connected. Giving earnest thought to others' welfare, asking ourselves what can we do to help -- using our minds in this way is a sign of compassion.

 

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 Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.412

 

In the evening went to the home of attorney H. to discuss the cemetery issue and other matters.  Few lawyers stand up for justice. Because of this, the underprivileged remain miserable.  In the power politics realm, the common people's sufferings are the same as in the days of the Tokugawa shogunate.

Religious revolution.  Social revolution.  The people must rise to create their own society.  Must become the detonator to spark this change.

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 21 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

 

If you practice faith while doubting its effects, you will get results that are at best unsatisfactory. This is the reflection of your own weak faith on the mirror of the cosmos. On the other hand, when you stand up with strong confidence, you will accrue limitless blessings.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

 

There is definitely something extraordinary in the ebb and flow of the tide, the rising and setting of the moon, and the way in which summer, autumn, winter and spring give way to each other. Something uncommon also occurs when an ordinary person attains Buddhahood. At such a time, the three obstacles and four devils will invariably appear, and the wise will rejoice while the foolish will retreat.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 637

The Three Obstacles and Four Devils

Written to Ikegami Hyoe no Sakan Munenga on November 20, 1277

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

 

Everyone born in this world has a unique role that only he or she can fulfill. Were this not the case, we would not be here. The universe never acts without cause; everything invariably has a reason for being. Even the weeds people love to loathe serve a purpose.

 

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 Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.411

 

Took the 12:00 p.m. steamship to Sado Island with quite a few others, crossing amid giant waves.  Many became seasick from the rolling of the ship.  We finally arrived after being sprayed by the waves for more than four hours.  All ferry service after ours was cancelled.  An unforgettable day.

Checked into an inn and slept deeply from fatigue.

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Visited Ichinosawa and a temple at Tsukahara on the next day… Became aware of the enormous difference between the real history of these places and what they represent now.  In any case, enjoyed walking and reminiscing about the Daishonin's history…

My very first visit to Sado.  Resolved to visit again and spend more time.

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 20 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

 

What is the purpose of life? It is happiness. But here are two kinds of happiness: relative and absolute. Relative happiness comes in a wide variety of forms. The purpose of Buddhism is to attain Buddhahood. In modern terms, this could be explained as realizing absolute happiness - a state of happiness that can never be destroyed or defeated.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

 

You should not have the slightest fear in your heart. It is lack of courage that prevents one from attaining Buddhahood, although one may have professed faith in the Lotus Sutra many times since innumerable kalpas ago.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 637

The Three Obstacles and Four Devils

Written to Ikegami Hyoe no Sakan Munenga on November 20, 1277

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

 

Many things happen in life. There are joyous days and times of suffering. Sometimes unpleasant things occur. But that's what makes life so interesting. The dramas we encounter are part and parcel of being human. If we experienced no change or drama in our lives, if nothing unexpected ever happened, we would merely be like automatons, our lives unbearably monotonous and dull. Therefore, please develop a strong self so that you can enact the drama of your life with confidence and poise in the face of whatever vicissitudes you may encounter.

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.410

 

Stayed in a reception room at the headquarters.  Talked with President Toda's family for half the day.  They were extremely pleased. Nothing gives me more joy.  My greatest happiness is seeing that they have overcome their sorrow and understood my heart.  Want to be a person who understands the hearts of others.

 

A joint conference from 5:00.  The meeting turned into heated discussion – we are only human.  This may be good, since we are in the process of new construction.

 

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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 19 November 2012 - The Year of Developing a Youthful SGI

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Monday, November 19, 2012

 

The innate power of humanity is the driving force that breaks down all barriers of discrimination. The ultimate expression of this humanity is Buddhahood; it is the power of the Mystic Law. Daimoku is therefore the fundamental energy for realizing victory in the struggle for human rights. 

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Monday, November 19, 2012

 

In this age, it is as natural for a woman to change her fixed karma by practicing the Lotus Sutra as it is for rice to ripen in fall or chrysanthemums to bloom in winter. When I prayed for my mother, not only was her illness cured, but her life was prolonged by four years. Now you too have fallen ill, and as a woman, it is all the more timely for you to establish steadfast faith in the Lotus Sutra and see what it will do for you.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 955

On Prolonging One's Life Span

Written to the lay nun Myojo in 1279 

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Monday, November 19, 2012

 

To be concerned only with one's own happiness is egoism. To claim you care only about the happiness of others is hypocrisy. Genuine happiness is becoming happy together with others. Josei Toda said: "Just becoming happy oneself -- there's nothing difficult to that. It's easy. Helping others become happy is the foundation of our faith." 

 

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 Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.409

 

Took the Swallow special express to Kansai to attend a general meeting…

The top youth division leaders have grown splendidly.  I. needs a little more improvement.

Members at the Kansai headquarters are strenuously preparing for the general meeting.  

Truly thankful for their hard work.  

Firmly believe such efforts in practice will be a cause that will definitely bring about their development and contribution as capable individuals.

 

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

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Sunday, November 18, 2012

 

The Soka Gakkai's goal is kosen-rufu -- realizing human happiness and world peace by widely spreading the philosophy and ideals of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism. We will continue to strive earnestly for this goal, undaunted by criticism, slander or malicious attempts to hinder our progress. That is because what we are doing is the will and decree of the original Buddha, Nichiren Daishonin. I proclaim that all who energetically exert themselves for the cause of kosen-rufu are genuine disciples of the Daishonin and genuine members of the SGI.

 

Events

Soka Gakkai Founding Day

1930 Soka Gakkai is established.

1944 Tsunesaburo Makiguchi, the Soka Gakkai's first president, dies in prison.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Sunday, November 18, 2012

 

How long does a lifetime last? If one stops to consider, it is like a single night's lodging at a wayside inn. Should one forget that fact and seek some measure of worldly fame and profit? Though you may gain them, they will be mere prosperity in a dream, a delight scarcely to be prized. You would do better simply to leave such matters to the karma formed in your previous existences.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 63

Questions and Answers about Embracing the Lotus Sutra

Recipient unknown; written in March 1263

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Sunday, November 18, 2012

 

If you want to build a happy life, you have to give careful thought to the foundations. Happiness certainly cannot be secured on appearances or affectation. Happiness comes down to the inner state of our life at a given moment.

 

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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1958) p.409

 

Slight fever – 100.4°.  Feel some pain in my internal organs.  There is no choice but to advance with earnest faith.

Took the 1:30 p.m. express to the head temple to attend the memorial service commemorating the hundredth day since my mentor's passing and to lay his ashes to rest.

Arrived at the head temple with the Toda family shortly before 5:00…

 

The high priest led the sutra recitation and offered words of reminiscence.

Quietly renewed and solidified by profound resolve.

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