Sensei's Daily Encouragement - 27 October 2021 - Year of Hope and Victory

             

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
October 27, 2021

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
October 27, 2021

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
October 27, 2021

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 (12 January 1956) p.285

Attended a study meeting for the upcoming Study Department exam. All the participants showed the utmost seriousness. Nevertheless, their eyes sparkled. This is a world of devotion and joy unseen in other organizations.
Studied until 10:30pm, covering every subject.
I should worry about my next life. Reflected on my lack of ability. Study, study! Must pursue the two ways of practice and study.
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