Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 17, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 17, 2024
 
"Don't be dependent on anyone," this is my sentiment. We each have to strengthen and develop ourselves through our own efforts. We must never surrender to any foe or difficulty. We must be fearless. This is the true spirit of self-reliance.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 17, 2024
 
The sutra states: "If one [of these good men or women in the time after I have passed into extinction] is able to secretly expound the Lotus Sutra to one person, even one phrase of it, then you should know that he or she is the envoy of the Thus Come One. He has been dispatched by the Thus Come One and carries out the Thus Come One's work." Who else but us can this possibly refer to?"
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 385
The True Aspect of All Phenomena
Written to Sairen-bo Nichijo on May 17, 1273
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 17, 2024
 
Wisdom is rooted in the souls of human beings. The way to acquire it is to follow the simple advice of Socrates: "Know thyself." This is the starting point for the establishment of a sense of human dignity, preventing the degradation of human beings into anonymous, interchangeable cogs in a machine. The essence of true knowledge is self-knowledge.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (22 October 1953) p.149
 
Y. has become a bit conceited. It's become necessary for him to receive strict guidance. If I act humbly toward him, he's all the more arrogant. I seem to be the only one who can scold him or guide him correctly.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 16, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 16, 2024
 
Day in and day out. Today and again tomorrow. Moving of one's own accord to take action, to meet with people and conduct dialogues. This is what Shakyamuni did. Herein lies the correct way of life for human beings and the path of true honour for a Buddhist. This is the rhythm of the SGI's advance - an advance founded upon the same principles practiced and espoused by Shakyamuni and the original Buddha, Nichiren Daishonin.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 16, 2024
 
From a mundane view, I am the poorest person in Japan, but in light of Buddhism, I am the wealthiest person in all Jambudvipa. When I consider that this is all because the time is right, I am overwhelmed with joy and cannot restrain my tears.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 977
On Establishing the Four Bodhisattvas as the Object of Devotion
Written to Toki Jonin on May 17, 1279
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 16, 2024
 
In a relationship, it is demeaning to constantly seek your partner's approval. Such relationships are bereft of real caring, depth or even love. For those of you who find yourselves in relationships where you are not treated the way your heart says you should be, I hope you will have the courage and dignity to decide that you are better off risking the scorn of your partner than enduring unhappiness with him or her. 
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (18 October 1953) p.148
 
Came home at 1:00. Fight, and the devil will retreat. Advance, and break through the clouds. Then the morning sun of Buddhahood will definitely appear. 
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 15, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 15, 2024
 
Ralph Waldo Emerson says, "Good-nature is plentiful, but we want justice with a heart of steel, to fight down the proud." If people are merely good-natured, then those who are arrogant and highhanded will have free rein to carry on as they please. Only those who fight with hearts of steel are people of justice.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 15, 2024
 
There are a few in this province of Kai who have expressed their desire to take faith. Yet I make it a rule not to permit them to join us unless they remain steadfast in their resolve. Some people, despite their shallow understanding, pretend staunch faith and speak contemptuously to their fellow believers, thus often disrupting the faith of others.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 800
The Workings of Brahma and Shakra
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on May 15, 1277
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 15, 2024
 
When water is clear, the moon is reflected. When the wind blows, the trees shake. Our minds are like the water. Faith that is weak is like muddy water, while faith that is brave is like clear water. Understand that the trees are like principles, and the wind that shakes them is like the recitation of the sutra. - Nichiren
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (18 October 1953) p.148
 
A district chiefs meeting began at 5:00. Delighted to see everyone in high spirits. I just can't stop worrying about each of their living situations. But each face is aglow with benefit. They have really grown. They have truly fought along with me. I am forever indebted to them. Those faces, those people and their accomplishments will forever be illuminated by the light of the Mystic Law. I will never forget them.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 14, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 14, 2024
 
Kosen-rufu is a long-term struggle we are pursuing over the 10,000 years of the Latter Day. Therefore, as we strive to realize victory in the present, we need to maintain a vision of the next fifty or 100 years. Each day I am making efforts with my focus on the infinite future.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 14, 2024
 
The Lotus Sutra states, "[The doctrines that they preach…] will never be contrary to the true reality." T'ien-t'ai commented on this, saying that "no worldly affairs of life or work are ever contrary to the true reality." A person of wisdom is not one who practices Buddhism apart from worldly affairs but, rather, one who thoroughly understands the principles by which the world may be governed.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 1121
The Kalpa of Decrease
Recipient and date unknown
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 14, 2024
 
What can the individual accomplish in the face of the huge institutions that run our world? This feeling of powerlessness fuels a vicious cycle that only worsens the situation and increases people's sense of futility. At the opposite extreme of this sense of powerlessness lie the Lotus Sutra's philosophy of three thousand realms in a single moment of life and the application of this teaching to our daily lives. This principle teaches us that the inner determination of an individual can transform everything; it gives ultimate expression to the infinite potential and dignity inherent in each human life.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (13 October 1953) p.147
 
Ah, how time passes. A new time must come. I await that time. I live for that time. Must make meaningful progress during my youth. Whether in suffering or sadness, must remain youthful like a child of the Gakkai – fresh and alive.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 13, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 13, 2024
 
 During our dialogue, Dr. Arnold Toynbee at one point told me that his motto was Laboremus, Latin for, "Let's get to work!" Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism focuses on the present and future; it is infused with the spirit, "Let's get started!" We practice for the sake of the present and future. It is important not to become trapped in the past; we have to put it behind us. The Buddhism of true cause is always based on the present moment; it is always "from this moment on.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 13, 2024
 
Therefore, we know that the prayers offered by a practitioner of the Lotus Sutra will be answered just as an echo answers a sound, as a shadow follows a form, as the reflection of the moon appears in clear water, as a mirror collects dewdrops, as a magnet attracts iron, as amber attracts particles of dust, or as a clear mirror reflects the color of an object.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 340
On Prayer
Written to Sairen-bo in 1272
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 13, 2024
 
We should give first priority to the development of an independent spirit as a human being before considering one's role as a man, woman, child or parent. In other words, for a person to become a man, woman, child or parent in the true sense of the word, one has to first of all develop his or her autonomous identity as a human being. On the Treasure Tower.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (13 October 1953) p.147
 
Not matter what, I must deepen my study of Buddhism. Must master the Daishonin's Buddhism.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 12, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 12, 2024
 
I want you to understand the subtle workings of the mind. How you orient your mind, the kind of attitude you take, greatly influences both you yourself and your environment. The Buddhist principle of a single life-moment encompassing 3,000 realms completely elucidates the true aspect of life's inner workings. Through the power of strong inner resolve, we can transform ourselves, those around us and the land in which we live.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 12, 2024
 
The Lotus Sutra is both the teaching of the Buddha and the embodiment of the Buddha wisdom. If one puts sincere faith in each character and brushstroke in it, then one will become a Buddha in one's present form.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 969
The Teaching That Accords with the Buddha's Mind
Written to Niike Saemon-no-jo on May 2, 1279
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 12, 2024
 
Human society, as viewed with the "eyes of Buddhism," takes on a completely different meaning from that discerned by "secular eyes." No longer are the powerful above and ordinary people below. Status does not make people great, and authority does not make them noble. Instead, it is people wholeheartedly dedicated to a lofty ideal who shine the brightest.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (12 October 1953) p.147
 
In the evening, a few members from my YMD corps came by for guidance. I feel great affection for them. Sincerely hope they will never abandon their faith. They are all great. Each courageously battling his own obstacles in order to save the people, each struggling with his own difficulties. How praiseworthy! Must pay heartfelt attention to each individual.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 11, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 11, 2024
 
The Daishonin urges us to earnestly chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, even just once or twice, stressing that if we do so we will definitely attain enlightenment. Now some might immediately think, "All right! I'll just put faith aside and take it easy, then embrace faith seriously a year before I die." But the Daishonin's words in this instance are meant to spur his followers to devote greater efforts to their Buddhist practice, emphasizing the beneficial power of chanting even a single daimoku. The correct way to read the Gosho is to always interpret the Daishonin's words from the standpoint of strengthening our faith.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 11, 2024
 
The moon appears in the west and sheds its light eastward, but the sun rises in the east and casts its rays to the west. The same is true of Buddhism. It spread from west to east in the Former and Middle Days of the Law, but will travel from east to west in the Latter Day.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 401
On the Buddha's Prophecy
Written to all disciples and lay supporters on May 11, 1273
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 11, 2024
 
The sanctity of life is known to everyone. At the same time, there is universal confusion about the essential meaning of life's sanctity. If the sanctity of life can become a solid touchstone of wisdom for all people, then humankind's destiny to experience war and misery repeatedly can be greatly transformed. It is toward this end that we Nichiren Buddhists are struggling.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (10 October 1953) p.146
 
I have a mission. Without a mission, a Bodhisattva of the Earth has no reason to exist. Human beings must never forget their mission. Since this is the case, my only choice is to courageously carry out powerful unyielding, indomitable faith.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 10, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 10, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 9, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
 May 8, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 7, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 6, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 5, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 4, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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, 2024
 
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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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 3, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 3, 2024
 
As direct disciples of the Daishonin, we have summoned forth the three powerful enemies of Buddhism. And defeating their schemes and repelling their onslaughts, we have carved out a great path of kosen-rufu. This has been the unrivalled pride of Mr. Makiguchi, Mr. Toda and myself as Soka Gakkai presidents. It is indisputable proof that the Soka Gakkai is the foremost organization in the entire world acting in accord with the Buddha's will and decree.
 
Events
1951 Josei Toda inaugurated as the second Soka Gakkai president.
1960 Daisaku Ikeda inaugurated as the third Soka Gakkai president.
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From The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 3, 2024
 
Life is the most precious of all treasures. Even one extra day of life is worth more than ten million ryo of gold. The Lotus Sutra surpasses all the other sacred teachings of the Buddha's lifetime because of the "Life Span" chapter. The greatest prince in the land of Jambudvipa would be of less consequence than a blade of grass if he died in childhood. If he died young, even a person whose wisdom shone as brilliantly as the sun would be less than a living dog. So you must hasten to accumulate the treasure of faith and quickly conquer your illness.
 
 The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 955
On Prolonging One's Life Span
Written to the lay nun Myojo in 1279
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 3, 2024
 
The SGI is a gathering of ordinary people. We struggle to ensure that the people are not despised and exploited by the powerful. To help all people become strong and wise, we are developing a network of peace and culture and putting great effort into education. By nature, the people are strong, wise, cheerful and warm. Religious faith has the power to draw out those qualities. The purpose of faith is not to turn people into sheep; it is to make them wise. Wisdom isn't knowledge that causes suffering for others; it is enlightened insight for improving one's own life as well as the lives of others.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (03 October 1953) p.144
 
To Kogane City in Yokohama with K. on business. Things did not turn out too well.
Reflected that faith equals work. Sensei's morning lecture passed the midpoint in our astronomy study. My heart leaps when I consider the relationship between Buddhism and the study of the cosmos.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 2, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 2, 2024
 
No matter how healthy, intelligent or affluent we may be, if our minds are weak, then our happiness will also be frail and brittle. Our minds of faith, moreover, enable us to bring out the full potential in all things and situations, so it is crucial that we strive to forge our minds of faith.
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From The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 2, 2024
 
All the other sutras are examples of preaching in accordance with the minds of others, because, when expounding them, the Buddha adjusted himself to the minds of all other living beings. But the Lotus Sutra is an example of preaching in accordance with the Buddha's own mind, because in it the Buddha had all living beings comply with his own mind.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 969
The Teaching That Accords with the Buddha's Mind
Written to Niike Saemon-no-jo on May 2, 1279
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 2, 2024
 
Great people never forget what others have done for them. In fact, having a sense of appreciation makes a person worthy of respect.
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (02 October 1953) p.144
 
A steady autumn rain. Appreciative in many ways for my circumstances, which allow me to grow while fighting courageously day after day and night after night. How fortunate that I can dedicate myself heart and soul to my job, my mission and my activities during this active time of my youth. Next year I'll be twenty-six. Construction, improvement, fierce struggle, devotion – with these I will live, fight and advance under my mentor, in a way befitting a youth and a disciple.
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Sensei's Daily Encouragement - May 1, 2024- Year of Fresh Departure for a Youthful Soka Gakkai Worldwide

    

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
May 1, 2024
 
As you make your way home tonight, may you pause for a moment to gaze up at the night sky and let your heart communicate with the moon in wordless dialogue. Perhaps you might compose a poem and set it down in your journal entry for today. I would like you to possess such a poetic spirit.
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From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
May 1, 2024
 
Though the teaching that I am now propagating seems limited, it is extremely profound. That is because it goes deeper than the teaching expounded by Tien-tai, Dengyo, and others. It is the three important matters in the "Life Span" chapter of the essential teaching. Practicing only the seven characters of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo seems limited, but since they are the master of all the Buddhas of the three existences, the teacher of all the bodhisattvas in the ten directions, and the guide that enables all living beings to attain the Buddha way, it is profound.
 
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 317
Earthly Desires are Enlightenment
Written to Shijo Kingo on May 2, 1272
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Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
May 1, 2024
 
Nichiren states, "Mugwort that grows in the midst of hemp, or a snake inside a tube [will as a matter of course become straight], and those who associate with people of good character will consequently become upright in heart, deed, and word." If we apply this passage to various influences upon children, we may say that the environment surrounding children, particularly the behaviours of adults, has a great impact on children. Parents must set good examples before nagging them to do this or that. Parents must strive to become a good, upright influence for children like hemp for mugwort. It is also important for parents to bring their children closer to "people of good character" outside their own families so that children may advance in a more positive direction
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Excerpt from Daisaku Ikeda - A Youthful Diary (1953) p.143/144
 
Physical condition very poor, Missed the fourth-level lecture in the evening and went home early. Imagined my friends listening to the lecture in high spirit. So this is how painful it is to be resting when I should be advancing. Thought about tomorrow's work. Felt lifeless. Decided to chant many daimoku.
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