Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
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.
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
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
Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
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.
Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (12 September 1950) p.47
Every day, an opportunity for human revolution.
Every day must be a time to advance.
Mr. Toda deeply encouraged me about my health. He prayed to the Gohonzon at the headquarters for me. He was severe with me regarding my weak life force.
I was startled at how serious he was. I felt moved, terrified, awed.
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