Sensei's Daily Encouragement -August 19 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

   

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
August 19, 2026

Buddhism is wisdom. As long as we have wisdom, we can put all things to the best use, we can turn everything in the direction of happiness.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
 August 19, 2026

During [Sudatta's] last period of poverty, when all the people had fled or perished and only he and his wife remained, they had five measures of rice that would nourish them for five days. At that time, five people , Mahakashyapa, Shariputra, Ananda, Rahula and Shakyamuni Buddha came one after another to beg for the five measures of rice, which Sudatta gave them. From that day on, Sudatta was the wealthiest man in all India, and he built the Jetavana Monastery. From this, you should understand all things.

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1086
The Wealthy Man Sudatta
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on December 27, 1280
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
 August 19, 2026

Ultimately, we are responsible for our own destiny. It may seem to us that our fate is predetermined, whether by our genes or by our environment. What really matters, however, is how we can improve ourselves from this moment forward, how we can change the circumstances that we find ourselves in. This enormous transformative force is what Buddhism is all about. In this struggle lies the source of never-ending youth and vitality.
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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (13 October 1954) p.202

Walked home alone from Kamata Station. The autumn moon shone brilliantly. The heartbeat of youth – pristine, praiseworthy. One who protects the Mystic Law must become like the lotus, blooming amid the muddy swamp of our complicated society. Even if we find ourselves lonely, heartbroken, afflicted with sadness or in the midst of a trying or difficult time, we still have the Mystic Law. Never forget the moon and the greenery of nature. They are good friends.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -August 18 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
August 18, 2026

Buddhism is action. One meaning of kyo of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is action. Without action, we cannot say that we are practicing Nam-myoho-renge-kyo; it would merely remain a concept. Only through action are we able to truly gain the great benefit of the Mystic Law.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
August 18, 2026

People have varied tastes. Some prefer good and some prefer evil. There are many kinds of people. But though they differ from one another in such ways, once they enter into the Lotus Sutra, they all become like a single person in body and a single person in mind. This is just like the myriad different rivers that, when they flow into the ocean, all take on a uniformly salty flavor, or like the many kinds of birds that, when they approach Mount Sumeru, all assume the same [golden] hue.

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1042
The Treasure of a Filial Child
Written to the lay nun Sennichi on July 2, 1280
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
August 18, 2026

Perhaps the chief purpose of a philosophy or religion is to help us understand the meaning of death and why we are alive. Without understanding where we have come from and where we are going, we cannot establish our own sense of identity to the fullest. Aging and its symptoms can, if nothing else, prompt us to seek rejuvenation. Ultimately, that rejuvenation can be found not in forestalling symptoms but in embracing a larger understanding of our own lives, which Buddhism elucidates.
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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (08 October 1954) p.201

On this night, I keenly sense the severity of the way of mentor and disciple. Without Sensei, I do not exist – if mentor and disciple are truly one. At times I envy some of my friends’ free lifestyles. Ten years from now, however, the difference in our power and capability will be strikingly apparent. Every day, I live with determination, advancing toward a new goal. Today, too, I will exert my full energy and effort. This is the only way for me, no matter what mountains I may have to cross.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -August 17 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
August 17, 2026

There is nothing more noble than inviting our friends to discussion meetings, gathering together to enable them to establish a connection with Buddhism, to talk about Buddhist teachings, and to deepen our faith. As the Lotus Sutra clearly indicates, through such steady, dedicated efforts to teach others about Buddhism, you are accumulating the good fortune and benefit to be reborn as great leaders and savour a state of unsurpassed freedom in lifetime after lifetime.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
August 17, 2026

Rice is what sustains life. It is like the oil that sustains the life of the lamp. The Lotus Sutra is a lamp, and its votary is the oil that sustains it. Or again, the lay supporters are the oil that sustains the lamp of the votary.

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 983
King Rinda
Written to Soya Doso on August 17, 1279
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
August 17, 2026

The Buddhist teaching of the oneness of life and its environment tells us that humanity and the natural world are one. That is why if we wish to protect the environment, we must transform and purify the three poisons - greed, anger and foolishness - that exist in people's lives. The principle of human revolution focuses on precisely that: inner transformation at the most fundamental level.
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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (18 September 1954) p.200/201

There are times I think about death and times I am filled with the joy of living. At times I give guidance, overflowing with profound gratitude and appreciation for the Mystic Law; at other times I only go through the motions, giving guidance and carrying out propagation out of obligation. At times I want to run to Sensei’s side, while at others, I feel in the depths of my heart like avoiding him.

A lonesome youth. A young man gripped by a myriad emotions. Fateful days of youth. I can only advance with all my might. In any event, whether joyful of suffering, I must advance, as a child of the Gakkai.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -August 16 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    


Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
August 16, 2026

Certainly there will be times when you wish you had more spending money, more time to sleep and more time for fun and recreation. You may feel restricted now, but you should consider your current situation as the perfect set of circumstances for your growth. Within the restrictions that define your present existence, the only thing to do is to discipline yourself and head in the direction of growth and self-improvement. In the process of exerting yourself in such endeavours, you will without a doubt build and strengthen your character.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
 August 16, 2026

A person's death is not determined by illness. In our own time, the people of Iki and Tsushima, though not suffering from illness, were slaughtered in an instant by the Mongols. It is not certain that, because one is ill, one will die. And could not this illness of your husband's be the Buddha's design, because the Vimalakirti and Nirvana sutras both teach that sick people will surely attain Buddhahood? Illness gives rise to the resolve to attain the way.

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 937
The Good Medicine for All Ills
Written to the lay nun Myoshin on August 16, probably in 1278
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
 August 16, 2026

As long as we are human, we are bound to make mistakes. We all fall prey to flawed beliefs and views. What distinguishes a forward-looking person from an intransigent one, a virtuous person from a dishonest one, however, is whether one can candidly admit to one's mistakes and take bold steps to redress them.
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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (18 September 1954) p.200

There was a storm. I am twenty-six, the departure point for the journey of my life. Soon, this coming year, I will be twenty-seven. I end each year in the midst of a battle with myself. Sad – disappointing. Why can’t I become a youth who is praised by his brilliant teacher?
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -August 15 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

  

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
August 15, 2026

The first thing is to pray. From the moment we begin to pray, things start moving. The darker the night, the closer the dawn. From the moment we chant daimoku with a deep and powerful resolve, the sun begins to rise in our hearts. Hope - prayer is the sun of hope. To chant daimoku each time we face a problem, overcoming it and elevating our life-condition as a result - this is the path of "changing earthly desires into enlightenment," taught in Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism.

Events
1964 World Tribune publishes first issue.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
August 15, 2026

I, Nichiren, have inscribed my life in sumi ink, so believe in the Gohonzon with your whole heart. The Buddha's will is the Lotus Sutra, but the soul of Nichiren is nothing other than Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 412
Reply to Kyo'o
Written to Kyo'o and her parents, Nichigen-nyo and Shijo Kingo, on August 15, 1273
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
August 15, 2026

The world is growing increasingly interrelated and interdependent. We have reached a point where, in order to deal with not only environmental problems but every other issue confronting humankind, leaders with a broad, global perspective are indispensable. Everything hinges on how many capable leaders we can produce who are willing to fight wholeheartedly for the world's future and the happiness of humanity.
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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (15 September 1954) p.200

Had dinner with Sensei and his wife at the N. Chinese restaurant. Sensei’s physical condition is extremely poor. Was scolded severely. Certainly, what I said was wrong. Can only reflect seriously.

Received guidance about the future responsibilities of the president and general director. Very strict. Sensei is truly a fearsome teacher. Must study! Must remind myself again and again to study!
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -August 14 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

  

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
August 14, 2026

The German author Hermann Hesse (1877-1962) writes that the more one matures, the younger one grows. And certainly there are many people who, as they age, become increasingly vigorous and energetic, more broad-minded and tolerant, living with a greater sense of freedom and assurance. It is important to remember that aging and growing old are not necessarily the same thing.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
August 14, 2026

Let us openly and clearly outline the virtues of Myoho-renge-kyo! Just as poisonous compounds are changed into medicine, so these five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo change evil into good.

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1064
White Horses and White Swans
Written to the lady of Utubusa on August 14, 1280
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
August 14, 2026

In Nichiren Buddhism, we are encouraged to chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo for the happiness of those who - for whatever reason - displease, anger or even hurt us. Often this is not easy. But, inevitably, we come to see the better side of most people.
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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (03 September 1954) p.200

Sleepy all day. It’s gotten cooler. Lacking sleep, especially the past several days. A life that lacks common sense will definitely come to an impasse. Must be careful.

Attended a general meeting of Toshima District, Bunkyo Chapter, at Jozai-ji in the evening. Returned home extremely disappointed. Arrived at home a little before 11:00. Read Heroes of East and West.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement -August 13 2026- Year of Vibrant Growth for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
August 13, 2026

An important thing is that you concentrate on developing yourself. Whatever others may say or do, those who have established their own solid sense of identity will triumph in the end. The great Japanese author Eiji Yoshikawa (1892-1962) wrote in his novel Miyamoto Musashi [an account of the seventeenth-century master swordsman of the same name]: "Rather than worrying about your future, thinking ' Perhaps I should become this or perhaps I should become that,' first be still and build a self that is as solid and unmoving as Mount Fuji."
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
August 13, 2026

Could "enjoy themselves at ease" mean anything but that both our bodies and minds, lives and environments, are entities of three thousand realms in a single moment of life and Buddhas of limitless joy? There is no true happiness other than upholding faith in the Lotus Sutra. This is what is meant by "peace and security in their present existence and good circumstances in future existences."

The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 681
Happiness in This World
Written to Shijo Kingo on June 27, 1276
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
August 13, 2026

Buddhism teaches that human life is endowed simultaneously with both good and evil. The human mind is interpreted as partaking of ten different conditions, or states, including, at one end of the scale, hell, which is filled with suffering; hunger, dominated by greed; and animality, characterized by fear of the strong and contempt for the weak. At the other end are the Bodhisattva and Buddha conditions - states of mind in which people strive to help others by eliminating suffering and imparting happiness. Buddhism further teaches that the nature of life is for good and evil to be essentially inseparable.
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Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (01 September 1954) p.199

An evening lecture in Tsurumi. “On the Buddha’s Prophecy.” When I have truly prepared myself, my lectures go very well. This is how it should always be. Met with M. at a sushi shop until 11:00. He had visited Miss I. during lunch. Dinner was ready when I returned home. My wife reminded me that when I left for work in the morning I had promised her to be home in time for dinner. No excuse.
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