Sensei's Daily Encouragement -May 10 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 10, 2026
 
The state of mind with which we meet our death will greatly influence the course of our lives over eternity. Granted, if one is unconcerned by how one dies, or if one dismisses any connection between this existence and the next, then there probably isn't any need to practice the Daishonin's Buddhism. But the truth is that life is eternal, that our existence continues even after we die. Moreover, during the latent stage of death before rebirth, we cannot change the essence of our lives, we cannot carry out Buddhist practice. Only while we are alive as human beings can we practice Buddhism.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 10, 2026
 
A woman who takes this efficacious medicine will be surrounded and protected by these four great bodhisattvas at all times. When she rises to her feet, so too will the bodhisattvas, and when she walks along the road, they will also do the same. She and they will be as inseparable as a body and its shadow, as fish and water, as a voice and its echo, or as the moon and its light.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 415
On Offering Prayers to the Mandala of the Mystic Law
Recipient and date unknown
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 10, 2026
 
Children remember all their lives mothers who are always optimistic and generous toward society and the community and who live creatively. That kind of behaviour provides the finest possible nourishment for learning how to build a happy home life. It is important for married couples, while giving full rein to their individual characteristics, to cooperate for the happiness of the children, the family and society.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (10 October 1953) p.146
 
The faith that can change destiny cannot be carried out easily. Must not doubt. The fundamental cause lies in my own determination and faith.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -May 9 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 9, 2026
 
Buddhism is concerned with the essential nature of humanity. Buddhism is not found somewhere else separate from such beautiful expressions of humanity as appreciation toward one's mother and courtesy to others. As Nichiren Daishonin teaches in the Gosho, "behaviour as a human being" that perfectly accord with reason is what constitutes the heart of Buddhism. Therefore, our world of faith must be a gathering that is full of affection and heartfelt consideration.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 9, 2026
 
As you crave food when hungry, seek water when thirsty, long to see a lover, beg for medicine when ill, or as a beautiful woman desires powder and rouge, so should you put your faith in the Lotus Sutra. If you do not, you will regret it later.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 965
Persucution by Sword and Staff
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on April 20, 1279
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 9, 2026
 
A Turkish proverb says, "Iron shines when used, but rusts when not." The capacities of people working hard and striving with all their might never get rusty; they are constantly being polished and forged.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (09 October 1953) p.146
 
The Friday lecture was on “The Opening of the Eyes.” Could not absorb it because I was suffering from a headache. But Mr. Toda’s courageous spirit brought tears to my eyes. Sensei! Please live another thirty years! For Japan, for Asia and for world peace. I will not begrudge my meager efforts. I can only pray and pray.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -May 8 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
 May 8, 2026
 
No one is more wonderful than a mother. And there is nothing more noble than a mother's heart. I hope you will all treasure your mothers. Truly praiseworthy are those who have a sense of gratitude and appreciation toward their parents. The Buddhist sutras teach that the practice of Buddhism is the ultimate expression of devotion to one's parents, and the Buddha excels in such dedication and concern.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
 May 8, 2026
 
The master of the house in private treated us with compassion. Though outwardly he appeared to be fearful of the authorities, at heart he had great pity for us, something that I will never forget in any future lifetime. At that time, he meant more to me than the very parents who gave me birth. However great the obligations I incurred to him, I must endeavour to repay them. Even more, I must not fail to do what I had promised him.
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 529
Letter to the Lay Priest Ichinosawa
Written to the wife of the lay priest Ichinosawa on May 8, 1275
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
 May 8, 2026
 
Wildflowers are neither vain nor haughty, neither jealous nor servile. Living in accord with their unique mission, characterizing the Buddhist principle of the equality of cherry, peach, plum, and damson blossoms, they neither envy other flowers nor belittle themselves. They take pride in their individuality, knowing that each is a flower with a bloom like no other. Even the prettiest and most delicate wildflowers are by no means weak. They may seem fragile, but they are strong, unperturbed by rain or wind.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (09 October 1953) p.146
 
In physical and spiritual anguish all day. My only choice is to improve my faith. Must make myself practice strictly. Went in the rain to Yokohama to help negotiate the construction of a new home for Mr.’s relative. I enjoyed a meal on the way back.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -May 7 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 7, 2026
 
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, 2026
 
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, 2026
 
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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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -May 6 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 6, 2026
 
We have both a weak self and a strong self; the two are completely different. If we allow our weak side to dominate, we will be defeated. The thought,"I am still young and have a lot of time, so I can relax and take life easy" is a function of our own weakness.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 6, 2026
 
How does the mirror of the Lotus Sutra portray the people who, in the evil world of the latter age, believe in the teachings of the Lotus Sutra just as they are set forth in the sutra? Shakyamuni Buddha has left us words from his golden mouth revealing that such people have already made offerings to a hundred thousand million Buddhas in their past existences.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1108
The Proof of the Lotus Sutra
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on February 28, 1282
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 6, 2026
 
Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the foundation of Nichiren Buddhism. When we chant sonorously, the sun rises in our hearts. We are filled with power. Compassion wells forth. Our lives are lit with joy. Our wisdom shines. All Buddhas and protective forces throughout the universe go to work on our behalf. Life becomes exhilarating. .
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (07 October 1953) p.145
 
Bright sunshine. The sky, a stage in a dreamlike play. I want my life, too, to shine a spirited dance of “happiness in this world” on the stage of this earth.
Completed my astronomy study. Great nourishment for the future. Deeply thankful to President Toda.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -May 5 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

  

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 5, 2026
 
This is what I would like to communicate to you, my young friends who are the heirs of the Soka legacy: Live out your lives together with the SGI, an organization fulfilling the Buddha's decree! Our activities in the organization of faith constitute our Buddhist practice, lead to the realization of kosen-rufu and enable us to carry out our human revolution. To think selfishly, "I'll just practice on my own and however I like" cannot be called correct faith. Such a person is a Buddhist in name only; they are not true practitioners.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 5, 2026
 
Be diligent in developing your faith until the last moment of your life. Otherwise you will have regrets. For example, the journey from Kamakura to Kyoto takes twelve days. If you travel for eleven but stop with only one day remaining, how can you admire the moon over the capital?"
 
 The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1027
Letter to Niike
Written to Niike Saemon-no-jo in February 1280
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 5, 2026
 
When you encounter a wall, you should tell yourself, "Since there is a wall here, a wide, open expanse must lie on the other side." Rather than becoming discouraged, know that encountering a wall is proof of the progress that you have made so far. .
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (05 October 1953) p.145
 
A fine autumn day. There are days of rain, days of snow and overcast days. Similarly, there are days when we feel spirited, days of worry and days of sadness and regret. Traveled to the Joto area. My work is not going as planned. A youth’s mind is intensely restless. Must be strong, upright, untiring and self-disciplined.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -May 4 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 4, 2026
 
Buddhism concerns itself with winning. When we battle a powerful enemy, either we will triumph or we will be defeated, there is no middle ground. Battling against life's negative functions is an indivisible part of Buddhism. It is by being victorious in this struggle that we become Buddhas. We have to win. Moreover, Buddhism ensures that we can definitely do so.
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From The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 4, 2026
 
The most important thing in practicing the Buddhist teachings is to follow and uphold the Buddha's golden words, not the opinions of others.
 
 The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 393
On Practicing the Buddha's Teachings
Written to all followers in May 1273
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 4, 2026
 
What Buddhism terms good friends are sincere, honest people without a trace of deceit who guide others toward the correct path, toward good. It also refers to people who lend their assistance or support to us so that we can practice Buddhism with full assurance. If you become close to a person who makes you feel "that person is always glowing and animated" or "When I'm with that person I feel strong and secure," then your faith will naturally deepen, and you will develop bountiful wisdom. In carrying out this Buddhist practice, encountering good friends is the key to obtaining Buddhahood.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (04 October 1953) p.145
 
Home at 11:00. It is natural young pioneers are seldom at home – we are working to construct our happiness. Nothing - not the earth, the sun’s flames, the cells of our bodies or the growth of plants – is ever stagnant. Our guidance and faith toward realizing kosen-rufu must also never cease.
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