Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, September 6, 2013
We often hear people say they aren't capable. But this is a defeatist attitude. If you feel you aren't capable, then tap into the great reservoir of potential that lies inside you. Since we embrace the Daishonin's Buddhism, we have recourse to daimoku. If we chant daimoku to the Gohonzon, we can bring forth all the ability and strength we will ever need.
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, September 6, 2013
Even if my counsel is heeded, if I am not given due respect as the votary of the Lotus Sutra, then the country will perish. How ominous that the authorities have turned hundreds of persons against me and have even banished me twice! This country is surely doomed, but since I have asked the gods to withhold their punishment on our land, it has survived until now. However, that punishment has finally descended because these unreasonable actions continued.
The Actions of the Votary of the Lotus Sutra
Written to the lay nun Konichi in 1276
Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Friday, September 6, 2013
There is nothing wrong with being successful in society and enjoying a degree of fame. But ultimately, the lives of those dedicated to the welfare and happiness of others, even if they remain unrecognized, are the ones truly worthy of respect.
Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (11 October 1950) p.54
Life is ultimately a battle with oneself. It is also a struggle against external forces. Nothing is more pitiable in life than to be defeated.
Do effort and wisdom distinguish the victors from the vanquished? Or is it fortune or something akin to destiny?
Even after a major defeat, it is vital that we begin striving again with that experience as our foundation.
How well we grapple with stern realities, using the whole of our beings and experience, how deeply we think of our own lives and society in the struggle and how noble the goals we cherish - these are what create value in life, which is something for which youth should be thankful.
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