Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 7 2023 - Year of Youth and Triumph.

   

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 7, 2023

Many things happen in life. There are joyous days and times of suffering. Sometimes unpleasant things occur. But that's what makes life so interesting. The dramas we encounter are part and parcel of being human. If we experienced no change or drama in our lives, if nothing unexpected ever happened, we would merely be like automatons, our lives unbearably monotonous and dull. Therefore, please develop a strong self so that you can enact the drama of your life with confidence and poise in the face of whatever vicissitudes you may encounter.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 7, 2023

Even the darkness becomes bright when a lantern is lit, and even muddy water becomes clear when the moon shines on it. Can anything exceed the sun and the moon in brightness? Can anything surpass the lotus flower in purity? The Lotus Sutra is the sun and moon and the lotus flower. Therefore, it is called the Lotus Sutra of the Wonderful Law. Nichiren, too, is like the sun and moon and the lotus flower. If the water of your faith is clear, the moon of blessings will surely cast its reflection on it and protect you.

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 186
Easy Delivery of a Fortune Child
Written to Nichigen-nyo on May 8, 1271
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 7, 2023

Suffer what there is to suffer, enjoy what there is to enjoy. Regard both suffering and joy as facts of life, and continue chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, no matter what happens. How could this be anything other than the boundless joy of the Law? Strengthen your power of faith more than ever - Nichiren.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (07 October 1953) p.145

Read a book on Oda Nobunaga – a courageous general. A sharp mind. He acted in the spirit of male ambition. Toyotomi Hideyoshi was also fascinating. He was an individual of great friendliness. Many times, Mr. Toda has encouraged me to read books on history. One's view of history is important.
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