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Friday

15th May

YOU should know that rather than talking about your past karmas, it is hundred of times more valuable to chant daimoku courageously to the Gohonzon, the source of tremendous benefit, as you continue to live your life. Living in such a way will enable you to gain the confidence and understanding of others, thereby penning the way towards kosen-rufu.


YOU do not have to pay anything to express yourself; it is free of charge. What matters is how, through your expression others are revitalized, influenced and awakened. The wisdom to do this cannot be bought with money. After all, most essentials of life, like the air we breathe, have no price. Compassion, affection and wisdom – all of these are free. You do not have to be in the least bit stingy with them.


BEING victorious is crucial in Buddhism. Victory leads to happiness. Victory leads to kosen-rufu. It is invigorating to win. It also attracts others to our cause. If we lose, no one will give us a second glance. This is true for the individual, the family and the nation.


AS part of a larger whole – be it a family or a group – it is important for us to have the spirit and wisdom to harmonise and get along with others. The ability to be flexible and accommodate different views is itself a sign of a solid sense of self. We should neither be lazy, blindly following the crowd, nor self-centred, blindly going against it. Rather, we should seek balance and harmony. Being able to demonstrate such wisdom shows a strong self-identity.


IN my youth, I also worked hard as a district leader and group chief. Those who suddenly shoot to fame or high position tend to crumple and fall just as easily because they lack a solid basis. A foundation cannot be built without effort and hard work. This only stands to reason.

NOTE: NEW! Visit http://nichirendaishoningosho.blogspot.com/ for Nichiren Daishonin's gosho, The Opening of the Eyes.