Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 30 October 2014 - Year of Opening a New Era of Worldwide Kosen-rufu

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Thursday, October 30, 2014

 

The Gohonzon is the concrete manifestation of the very existence of Nichiren Daishonin, who taught kosen-rufu. Because of that, if you only practice gongyo and chant daimoku and don't take any other action for the sake of kosen-rufu or improving your own life, the Gohonzon will not have its true, full effect. If, however, you take actions to achieve kosen-rufu, they will serve as that extra push for your own life and help you leap to higher and higher states of mind in your gongyo and chanting as well.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Thursday, October 30, 2014

 

Shakyamuni's practices and the virtues he consequently attained are all contained within the five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo. If we believe in these five characters, we will naturally be granted the same benefits as he was.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 365

The Object of Devotion for Observing the Mind Established in the Fifth Five-Hundred-Year Period af the Thus Come One's Passing

Written to Toki Jonin on April 25, 1273

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Thursday, October 30, 2014

 

If you allow the passing of time to let you forget the lofty vows of your youth, you stand to block the source of your own boundless good fortune and sever the roots of limitless prosperity for your family and loved ones as well. Please never let this happen. Only by remaining steadfast to the vows we have made in our youth can we shine as true victors in life.

 

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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (30 October 1957) p.348/349

 

Bothered by a stomachache all morning. Wanted to go home.

An afternoon executive conference at N… Did not enjoy the meeting, due to my poor physical state.

Borrowed N.'s bicycle in the evening to go to Katsushika block. Lectured on "Letter from Sado" in one location and offered guidance to the block chiefs in another. Want it to become an excellent, happy block organization.

This month, my living expenses are in the red. Never any time to rest.

 

Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 29 October 2014 - Year of Opening a New Era of Worldwide Kosen-rufu

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

 

Gongyo is a practice that calls forth and activates the infinite power that the microcosm inherently possesses. It transforms your fate, breaks through any apparent dead ends and converts sufferings into happiness. It creates a transformation, a revolution of the microcosm. It is a diagram in miniature of kosen-rufu in our lives.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

 

If a boat is handled by an unskilled steersman, it may capsize and drown everyone aboard. Likewise, though someone may have great physical strength, if he lacks a resolute spirit, even his many abilities will be of no use.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 614

The Supremacy of the Law

Written to Oto and her mother, Nichimyo, on August 4, 1275

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

 

As you meet various trials and difficulties, thus polishing all the many facets of the jewel which is life, you will learn to walk that supreme pathway of humanity. Of this, I am confident, and I am confident too that those who embrace life's native creativity now stand and will continue to stand in the vanguard of history. Bringing the creativity of life to its fullest flowering is the work of human revolution. Carrying out this kind of human revolution is your mission now as it will be throughout your lives.

 

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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (29 October 1957) p.348

 

Overslept. Was it from taking the night train yesterday? Every joint in my body aches.

"I've been waiting for you," Sensei said with a stern look when I arrived at the morning study session. As his disciple, I have absolutely no excuse. Reflected seriously.

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Stopped at a stand on the way home from the station where I ate eighteen barbecued beef skewers. My stomach hurts. Had better control my appetite. 

Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 28 October 2014 - Year of Opening a New Era of Worldwide Kosen-rufu

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

 

It may seem perfectly all right to put ourselves and our own wishes first, to simply follow the dictates of our emotions and cravings, but the truth is that there is nothing more unreliable than our own mind. Life doesn't always go like clockwork and things will not necessarily turn out as we hope or plan. Consequently, Nichiren Daishonin frequently stressed: You should become the master of your mind, not let your mind master you. We mustn't allow ourselves to be ruled by a self-centered mind. Rather, we have to discipline our mind and gain mastery over it. This is the Daishonin's strict admonition.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

 

Showing profound compassion for those unable to comprehend the gem of the doctrine of three thousand realms in a single moment of life, the Buddha wrapped it within the five characters [of Myoho-renge-kyo], with which he then adorned the necks of the ignorant people of the latter age.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 376

The Object of Devotion for Observing the Mind Established in the Fifth Five-Hundred-Year Period after the Thus Come One's Passing

Written to Toki Jonin on April 25, 1273

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

 

Shakyamuni Buddha explained the fundamental spirit of Buddhism as a sense of individual responsibility. "You are your only master. Who else? Subdue yourself and discover your master." In other words, we must each take responsibility for our own self-discipline and for cultivating meaningful lives.

 

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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (25 October 1957) p.347

 

Was severely admonished by Sensei in the morning. Confucius said, "nine thoughts to one word," but I haven't been putting this into practice. Had better watch myself.

 

At 12:10, the ceremony to bring out the casket was held in the Reception Hall. Then, the main funeral ceremony was held before the Sutra Repository. Was moved by the service, which lasted more than two hours and was held in accord with ancient tradition.

 

Heartbroken to see Sensei and his wife in tears, purely bidding their final farewell to Nissho….

Oh, how things change. Common mortal reflect the general principle that all is transient, nothing is permanent. In light of the Mystic Law, this principle becomes the four virtues – eternity, happiness, true self and purity. I, my wife, my mentor and my friends – several decades from now, we will all have passed from this world. Impermanence.

Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 27 October 2014 - Year of Opening a New Era of Worldwide Kosen-rufu

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Monday, October 27, 2014

 

Whether we regard difficulties in life as misfortunes or whether we view them as good fortune depends entirely on how much we have forged our inner determination. It all depends on our attitude or inner state of life. With a dauntless spirit, we can lead a cheerful and thoroughly enjoyable life. We can develop a "self" of such fortitude that we can look forward to life's trials and tribulations with a sense of profound elation and joy: "Come on obstacles! I've been expecting you! This is the chance that I've been waiting for!"

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Monday, October 27, 2014

 

The function of fire is to burn and give light. The function of water is to wash away filth. The winds blow away dust and breathe life into plants, animals and human beings. The earth nourishes the grasses and trees, and heaven provides nourishing moisture. The five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo are also like that. They are the cluster of blessings brought by the Bodhisattvas of the Earth, disciples of the Buddha in his true identity.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 218

The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life

Written to Sairen-bo Nichijo on February 11, 1272

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Monday, October 27, 2014

 

Literature that works to refine, deepen and save the human soul is akin to a religion that elevates and binds people together. And the texts of great religions, such as the Bible and the Buddhist scriptures, make great literature. Literature and religion are parts of the human heritage, and determining how to use that heritage is essential to our further growth as human beings.

 

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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (22 October 1957) p.345

 

In the evening, Sensei explained that the "Expedient Means" chapter of the Lotus Sutra is like a child's castle built upon sand (when compared to the true teaching hidden in the "Life Span" chapter) and clarified the benefit of the character ge of renge in terms of attaining Buddhahood. He deeply elucidated the difference between Shakyamuni's Buddhism, its history and ideas, and the Daishonin's supreme philosophy of Nam-myo-renge-kyo.

 

Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 26 October 2014 - Year of Opening a New Era of Worldwide Kosen-rufu

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Sunday, October 26, 2014

 

I hope that, basing yourself on faith, you will become wealthy people of virtue and influence who are widely respected. I would like to add, however, that worldly success is not equivalent to true happiness. Achieving this requires that we have a profound understanding of the nature of life. A person of success in the true sense is one who can enjoy a free and unrestrained state of life.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Sunday, October 26, 2014

 

Life is the foremost of all treasures. It is expounded that even the treasures of the entire major world system cannot equal the value of one's body and life.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1125

The Gift of Rice

Recipient and date unknown

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Sunday, October 26, 2014

 

Buddhism is a movement emphasizing self-education with the aim of unlocking and developing our inherent Buddha nature while at the same time bringing forth diverse wisdom and using various expedient means to help others tap their Buddhahood. This development of potential, this education of oneself and others, is the noblest path a human being can ever pursue.

 

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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (18 October 1957) p. 344

 

A day I will remember as long as I live. The first court session began at 2:00. It ended with the verification of the defendants' identity.

 

Dashed to  Kobe  in the evening to give guidance. Two thousand and several hundred members gathered. The battle has finally begun.

Know that now is the opportune time to advance in faith!

My friends! Advance resolutely, toward the next victory!

I, too, will fight!

Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 25 October 2014 - Year of Opening a New Era of Worldwide Kosen-rufu

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Saturday, October 25, 2014

 

It is the sharp sword of the Mystic Law and the great power of faith that enable us to completely sever the chains of suffering. Therefore, I wish to make it clear that to secure eternal freedom and happiness, you must absolutely not be cowardly, especially in faith.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Saturday, October 25, 2014

 

Moreover, I chant the daimoku, which is the heart and core of the entire sutra, and I urge others to do likewise. Although the mugwort growing in a hemp field or wood marked for cutting with an inked line may not be straight to begin with, they will as a matter of course become so. In the same way, one who chants the daimoku as the Lotus Sutra teaches will never have a twisted mind. For one should know that, unless the mind of the Buddha enters into our bodies, we cannot in fact chant the daimoku.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 670

The Blessings of the Lotus Sutra

Written to Myomitsu on March 5, 1276

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Saturday, October 25, 2014

 

Health is not simply a matter of absence of illness. Health means constant challenge. Constant creativity. A prolific life always moving forward, opening up fresh new vistas - that is a life of true health. An unbeatable spirit is what supplies the power to keep pressing ahead.

 

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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (17 October 1957) p.343/344

 

Tomorrow, the trial begins.  My wife accompanied me to pay her respects to the Osaka members. Though we rode third-class, it was perhaps a trip I shall never forget.

 

In the evening, called on A., who is ill, at home, then offered greetings at T.'s, S.'s and Y.'s.

 

The devilish nature of authority; the impartiality of the court; the integrity of the lawyers – had better etch all these in my mind…

 

Talked with the members until late at night. They are people I will remember always.

 

Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 24 October 2014 - Year of Opening a New Era of Worldwide Kosen-rufu

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Friday, October 24, 2014

 

The only way to succeed is by first bringing to completion that which is most immediate. This principle applies in all affairs - in our daily lives, our work and our families as well as in the progress of kosen-rufu.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Friday, October 24, 2014

 

The sutra known as the Lotus Sutra is a scripture that has no match among all the sacred teachings of the Buddha's lifetime. And, as indicated by its words "between Buddhas," it can only be understood between one Buddha and another. Those at the stage of near-perfect enlightenment or below, on down to ordinary mortals, cannot fathom it. This is why Bodhisattva Nagarjuna stated in his Treatise on the Great Perfection of Wisdom that persons below the level of Buddha should simply have faith, and in that way they can attain Buddhahood.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1072

Reply to the Mother of Ueno

Written tot he lay nun Ueno on October 24, 1280

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Friday, October 24, 2014

 

What one has done for another yesterday will be done for oneself today. Blossoms turn into fruit, and brides become mothers-in-law. Chant Nam myoho renge kyo, and be always diligent in your faith - Nichiren

 

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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (15 October 1957) p.343

 

Yesterday, the retired high priest, Nissho, died. Received communication there would be an evening service for him. Sensei came directly to the head temple from  Osaka , and we, from  Tokyo . Severely rebuked by Sensei, who said all communication had been poor. Reflecting, I realize he was right.

The evening memorial service was held at the Renyoan at 7:00. Countless emotions. Was moved to tears watching Sensei eulogize Nissho.

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At 11:00, the casket was removed. Can imagine what it must have been like when the Daishonin died.

Gazed upon High Priest Nissho's face one last time. Amazed at his sublime and venerable Buddha-like countenance. Returned to  Tokyo  with Sensei on the steam train, which left just after 3:00. In the train, received profound guidance concerning the future of the priesthood and the Gakkai.

 

Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 23 October 2014 - Year of Opening a New Era of Worldwide Kosen-rufu

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda

Thursday, October 23, 2014

 

As far as the fundamental teachings of Buddhism and the Gosho are concerned, I hope that, regarding them as absolutely correct, you will first and foremost strive to put them into practice. I urge you to do so because this is the shortest route to understanding the essence of Buddhism in the depths of your life.

 

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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin

Thursday, October 23, 2014

 

No matter how earnestly Nichiren prays for you, if you lack faith, it will be like trying to set fire to wet tinder. Spur yourself to muster the power of faith. Regard your survival as wondrous. Employ the strategy of the Lotus Sutra before any other.

 

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1000

The Strategy of the Lotus Sutra

Written to Shijo Kingo on October 23, 1279

 

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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda

Thursday, October 23, 2014

 

The misfortune of others is our misfortune. Our happiness is the happiness of others. To see ourselves in others and feel an inner oneness and sense of unity with them represents a fundamental revolution in the way we view and live our lives. Therefore, discriminating against another person is the same as discriminating against oneself. When we hurt another, we are hurting ourselves. And when we respect others, we respect and elevate our own lives as well.

 

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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (14 October 1957) p.343

 

Got my wife to help edit my manuscript. Worked until late. Moonlight glistens through the window. Ah! Youth's emotions and passion shine all the more brilliantly! And my wife's face is so beautiful. Both, so young. Will never forget our youth together.