Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 5 August 2021 - Year of Hope and Victory

                    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
August 5, 2021

We cannot build true character if we allow ourselves to be swayed by passing praise or censure. "Don't concern yourself with petty criticisms! Commune constantly with fine books and fine people and improve yourself!" This was the creed by which Mr. Makiguchi and Mr. Toda lived their lives.
 
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From The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
August 5, 2021

The great lantern that illuminates the long night of the sufferings of birth and death, the sharp sword that severs the fundamental darkness inherent in life, is none other than the Lotus Sutra. 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1038
A Comparison of the Lotus and Other Sutras
Written to Toki Jonin on May 26, 1280
 
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
August 5, 2021

Buddhist optimism is not the escapist optimism of those who throw up their hands and say, "Somehow or other things will work out." Rather it means clearly recognizing evil as evil and suffering as suffering and resolutely fighting to overcome it. It means believing in one's ability and strength to struggle against any evil or any obstacle. It is to possess a fighting optimism.
 
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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (28 July 1954) p.195 

A hot day. Bought two Japan Airlines tickets, one for Sensei and one for myself. Feel a childlike excitement at flying for the first time. Went to the headquarters at 6:30 to discuss problems and lay plans for a Study Department general meeting. Late in the evening, received a phone call from Sensei. Was scolded severely. This has deep meaning. Had no time to offer an explanation.
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