Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Courage is free. Anyone can have it. Courage is another name for the SGI spirit. Mr. Toda said: "The Buddha is filled with compassion, but it is hard for us common mortals to show compassion. So we must have courage instead." In other words, when we work courageously for kosen-rufu, our actions by their very nature become compassionate.
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
What caused you to inwardly believe in the Lotus Sutra and to make offerings to me during my more than thirty-day stay there? I was hated and resented by the steward and the people of the district even more than I was in Kamakura . Those who saw me scowled, while those who merely heard my name were filled with spite. And yet, though I was there in the fifth month when rice was scarce, you secretly fed me. Have my parents been reborn in a place called Kawana, in Ito of Izu Province?"
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 35
The Izu Exile
Written to Funamori Yasaburo on June 27, 1261
Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
When you look at those of superior capacity, do not disparage yourself. The Buddha's true intention was that no one, even those of inferior capacity, be denied enlightenment. Conversely, when you compare yourself with persons of inferior capacity, do not be arrogant and over proud. Even persons of superior capacity may be excluded from enlightenment if they do not devote themselves wholeheartedly – Nichiren
Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (01 January 1950 p.17)
Slept until 10:00 this morning. Was awakened by the lady next door, who treated me to zoni.
Feel carefree, living in an apartment by myself, but it's rather lonesome.
Hurriedly did gongyo and went to Mr. Toda's house.
Clustered around him were Miss K., I., Y., I. and several others. He offered us refreshments and gave guidance on a variety of subjects until evening. A memorable New Year's.
*Zoni: rice cakes in soup, a traditional New Year's dish.
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