THOMAS JEFFERSON, the third president of the United States, wrote: “The whole art of government consists in the art of being honest.” Honesty is crucial; the honest person triumphs in life. The higher one’s position, the more important honesty is. This is the mark of a truly humanistic organization.
IF there is even just one person who awakens to his/her mission and earnestly advances in faith, if there is just one person with the dauntless spirit of a true lion, then, from that person, everything will unfold. Those who are aware of their missions have certain radiance. Those who dedicate their lives to their missions know joy. In this awareness and dedication, we find the wings to escape from the prison of sorrowful and painful karma and soar high into the expansive sky of happiness.
LATITUDE and generosity give birth to wisdom. While racing around frenetically each day may certainly be an expression of one’s sincere dedication, you will be happier if, on occasion, you slow down, relax, and with a broad and open mind take a good hard look at yourself and think about life.
WHEN we cherish a person with the same profound reverence as we would the Buddha, the Buddha nature in his life functions to protect us. On the other hand, if we belittle or regard the person with contempt, as though gazing into our own image reflected in a mirror, we will be disparaged in return.
YOU may have various worries right now in your daily life. However, it is the Mystic Law which enables you to solve any problems with composure, making them a springboard for your further growth. It also enables you to live out your life with total fulfillment and in the most valuable way, day after day, month after month, and year after year.
LIFE passes quickly. If you waste your time in hesitation, complaining or criticizing others, or if you yield to your own lazy nature, before you know it, your youth will have passed you by. Each and every day is very important. It is my hope that you will spend a fulfilled life.
THERE is a Russian proverb which said: “It is no use to blame the looking glass if your face is awry.” Likewise, one’s happiness or unhappiness is entirely the reflection of the balance of good and bad causes accumulated in one’s life. No one can blame others for his misfortunes. In the world of faith, it is necessary to realize this all the more clearly.
BOTH Buddhism and life are a battle between victory and defeat. Do we win or lose? Will we be happy or sad? Those who make sincere and diligent efforts always win. They will shine with victory and happiness.
CHANTING daimoku earnestly, with strong determination, provides the impetus to fundamentally transform our state of life. By breaking through our own limits and obstacles with daimoku and courageous action, we gain access to a higher state of life. Nam-myoho-renge-kyo extends across the entire universe. Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism enables us to transform ourselves and develop an expansive state of life that encompasses the entire universe.
AS long as he lived, founding President Tsunesaburo Makiguchi continued to increase his circle of comrades in faith and develop his state of life limitlessly by taking action for kosen-rufu, chanting daimoku, and writing and speaking to spread the Law. This ceaseless dedication is the way of life of Buddhism; it is the way of life of Soka.
IT is certain that those who maintain an immovable determination never to discard faith will receive the protection of all Buddhas.
WHILE controlling your mind, which is both extremely subtle and awesomely profound, you should strive to elevate your faith with freshness and vigour. When you do so, both your life and your surroundings will open wide before you, and every action you take will become a source of benefit. Understanding the subtle workings of one’s mind is the key to faith and to attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime.
THE actions we take for others, for the Law, for society and for kosen-rufu ultimately bring blessings to our own lives. To the extent that we exert ourselves in this way, our lives become polished. We become like magnets, drawing benefits into our lives. People who continue to chant daimoku throughout their lives, naturally become a “cluster of fortune and blessings” themselves.
IF you fall down seven times, get up on the eighth. In other words, do not give up when you feel discouraged, just pick yourself up and renew your determination each time.
WE have truly entered the age in which the great philosophy of Buddhism will lead the world. Many thoughtful, discerning leaders around the globe are focusing intently on the wisdom of Buddhism and enthusiastically endorse the humanistic principles upheld by the SGI. Let us proudly work to expand our network dedicated to bringing peace to the world through the propagation of the correct teaching of Buddhism.
I hope you will never become the kind of cowardly individuals who gaze on indifferently while wrongdoing is perpetrated, taking the attitude that it does not concern you and that getting involved will only be to your detriment – the kind of self-serving individuals who constantly try to make themselves look good and maneuver to protect themselves from becoming the target of attack. Indifference to injustice is our enemy. Those who pretend not to see evil are accomplices of evil.
IN the multitude of people’s personalities, we see the Buddhist principle of cherry, plum, peach and apricot blossom at work. Just as each blossom is beautiful in its own way, each person is also endowed with their own special qualities.
WE must live our lives tenaciously to the very end. This is the spirit of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism. In order to do this, it is vital never to be defeated. And this applies not only to us as individuals, but to our families and the organization as well. We must triumph over everything and always keep pressing on. Our endeavour to live this way in itself constitutes victory.
IF one practices reluctantly with a sense that it is a waste of time, disbelief and complaints will erase his good fortune. If one continues to practice this way, he will not experience remarkable benefits, and this will only serve to further convince him that his practice is in vain. This is a vicious cycle.
POSITION, social status and wealth all have their own relative importance, but in the final analysis, real happiness is determined by one’s state of life.
ONLY by means of the supreme law of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo can one change the suffering to which he is destined. He can also enjoy happiness throughout his life, which is the desire of all human beings. For this purpose, faith is essential.
IN many cases, other families are not practicing Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism. There is no need to worry or grow anxious about this. That is because, if we stand up earnestly and confidently in faith, we can lead all of our families and relatives in the direction of happiness and hope. We are like a solitary lighthouse on a dark night, enabling numerous ships to safely sail the seas.
GONGYO is a solemn ceremony in which we fuse our lives with the life-state of the Buddha. By steadfastly and continually carrying out the practice of gongyo and daimoku, the world of Buddhahood in our life becomes solidified, just as firmly packing a pile of earth will produce a strong foundation.
WHEN you possess a life-condition in which you can enjoy everything no matter what happens, when you have a positive outlook and wisdom – you can overcome any kind of problem or suffering. It begins with polishing yourself. This is your “human revolution”. It is the principle of ichinen sanzen (the principle which expounds that a single life-moment contains three thousand realms). By changing your ichinen, or your inner state of life, you can move everything into the best direction for your happiness.
WHEN you joyfully do gongyo and carry out activities with the determination to accumulate more good fortune in your life, the heavenly deities will be delighted and will valiantly perform their duty. If you must take some action anyway, it is your advantage that you do so spontaneously and with a feeling of joy.
THERE is no shame in having troubles in life, work, or any other area. Nor is there any need to lose self-confidence on that account. What matters is your faith, and how you can change your destiny. Always maintain a faith that is directly connected to the Gohonzon.
WHEN one worships the Gohonzon, all Buddhas and bodhisattvas in the entire universe immediately responds to one’s prayer by lending their protection. If one slanders the Gohonzon, the response will be exactly the opposite.
ONE cannot be said to be practicing faith correctly, if others make the observation, “For all their praying, their actions are always lacking in common sense.” It is important that one be able to bring forth the necessary wisdom for living a happy life. The power of faith enables us to realize for ourselves just what we need for our greatest possible happiness.
THE workings of our mind are truly subtle. Some have noted that despite what is commonly believed, our memory does not necessarily deteriorate as we get older. Even supposing a certain degree of decline is inevitable, our acceptance of people’s assertions that memory function deteriorates as a fact, actually causes us to become more forgetful. In reality, however, our brain is made so that we can keep learning at any age.
AN organization is like a person’s frame. Having a strong frame is important for healthy growth and development. In the same way, when the organization is united and solid, its members are protected and kosen-rufu can advance.
YOU may now be faced with a situation in which, because of various problems and obstacles, you are unable to advance as you wish. However, your present painstaking efforts definitely ensure that you will experience great development in the future.
EVEN though people may polish their face, they tend to neglect to polish their lives. While they quietly wash off a stain from their face, they remain unconcerned about stains in their lives.
THROUGH the power of faith, and based on the Buddhist principle that “earthly desires are enlightenment”, we can transform all our problems and sufferings into happiness and joy. Also by “substituting faith for wisdom”, our faith functions as the ultimate source of wisdom. The stronger our faith, the richer the wisdom that comes to govern our actions. This is how true people of faith strive to live.
A Buddhist must have a spirit as indomitable as a wall of solid rock. Weakness is malign and injurious to our cause. We must have a spirit as strong as steel and the heart of a lion. Indomitable faith and unflagging courage give us the capacity to embrace others with limitless warmth and compassion. True kindness to others must always be backed by inner strength.
SOCIETY is moving forward day by day, and it is a constant challenge to keep up with the pace of change. Apathy is the path to defeat. The bureaucratic mentality that tends to take root in organizations is the source of all evils.
THE Chinese character of “Men” of Men Division (MD) literally means “men in the prime of life”. Therefore, it is important that MD members, while on one hand being self-possessed and level headed, continue on the other hand to demonstrate courage, energy and action as people who burn with a passionate commitment to kosen-rufu. If the MD develop remarkably and establish a solid framework for kosen-rufu, our organization will remain secure forever.
IF we do not rise to the challenge now, then when? If we do not strive today, then when? Life is a struggle against the limited time we have on earth. What will have been the purpose of our life if we do not fulfill our mission? If we abandon our dream, no matter how we try to justify ourselves, there will be little left in the end but emptiness and regret. Nichiren Daishonin wrote, “You must not spend your lives in vain and regret it for ten thousand years to come.” (WND, p622)
THE pattern of our lives, like that of the sun, may seem monotonous and routine, but there is nothing more profound than our daily endeavours. Achieving brilliant victory in our daily lives is what being victorious in faith is all about.
ORIGINALLY, every person’s life is a brilliant shining mirror. Differences arise depending on whether or not one polishes this mirror. A polished mirror is the Buddha’s life, whereas a tarnished mirror is that of a common mortal. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is what polishes our life. Not only do one undertake this practice ourselves, we also endeavour to teach others about the Mystic Law so that the mirror of their life shines brightly too.
BUDDHISM looks upon the individual human being as comparable to the natural world. No matter how hopelessly adverse your circumstances may be, like a gloomy, winter sky, remember that the flowering seasons of spring and summer are waiting in your heart to blossom.
YOUTH Division in particular must not behave arrogantly. I ask the youth leaders to sincerely look after their juniors in faith, and work wholeheartedly for the happiness of their fellow members.
IN life, you have to decide what you will do and then make efforts to achieve it. If you do not, you will end up frustrated and unhappy. How you grow as a human being and strive to achieve your wonderful goals and dreams will determine whether you head towards self-improvement or decline. Education exists for us to become happy, to succeed and to lead brilliant lives.
FAITH manifests itself in daily life. Daily life, in turn, is the stage upon which we show proof of faith. True human victory and happiness are attained through the earnest and steady day-to-day efforts we make in our lives.
JUST as a mirror is indispensable for putting your face and hair in order, if you are to lead a happier and more beautiful existence, it is necessary that you have a mirror that reveals the depths of your life.
HUMAN beings have both a good side and a bad side. From here on, as you grow, you will be choosing in which of these two directions you will go. If you pursue the good side, the path of happiness will gradually unfold for you. If you choose the negative side, your choice will inevitably result in a life of hellish suffering.
MANY accidents happen in society. Caution is of course important, but there is a limit to how cautious one can be. Whether one is consciously aware of it or not, the only sure and fundamental precaution is earnest prayer to the Gohonzon.
MIRRORS reflect our outward form. The mirror of Buddhism, however, reveals the intangible aspect of our life. Mirrors, which function by virtue of the laws of light and reflection, are a product of human wisdom. On the other hand, the Gohonzon which, based on the Law of the universe and life itself, makes it possible for us to attain Buddhahood by providing us with means of perceiving the true aspect of our life, in the culmination of the Buddha wisdom.
THERE are no deadlocks when you have faith. Through faith you can overcome any and all problems and eternally advance towards ever more expansive horizons of hope. This is the most wonderful way to live. Hope costs nothing; it is free. Yet at the same time it is life’s most valuable treasure.
WHEN you reach old age, you know in your heart if you are satisfied with your life or not. No one else can know this or decide it for you. The great challenge we face in our rapidly aging society is whether we can honestly say at the end of our days on this earth that our life was well spent.
MEETING others face-to-face is the only way. Meeting in person forges bonds of trust and brings people together. It also plays a vital role in fostering capable people. Our organization has achieved the global development that it has today precisely because we have persistently carried out such one-to-one dialogue. This is the unwavering formula by which the development of our movement unfolds.
AN organization is needed so that, based on the Gohonzon, we can encourage each other, protect each other, and advance without error on the path of steadfast faith. A consistent practice of gongyo and daimoku is essential.
SOCIETY and daily life are the “great earth” for our faith and practice of the True Law. The steady development of kosen-rufu can be ensured only when, based on faith, we carefully attend to the affairs of society, our daily life and our families. “Faith manifest itself in daily life” – this is our eternal guideline.
FAITH is crucial. Only with the actual practice of chanting daimoku and taking action for kosen-rufu does one’s faith become true and correct and can one reap infinite benefit and blessings.
IF you make the time – for example, 10 minutes in the morning, 10 minutes in the afternoon and 10 minutes at night – you will be able to read a total of 30 minutes a day. You will often find that you read with much greater concentration in those precious moments of time set aside amid busy schedule. It usually leaves a much deeper impression than reading done at a more leisure pace.
THE Gohonzon is neither outside of us, nor in some specific place. It is found within faith. Without faith, we cannot bring forth the life state of Buddhahood. The Gohonzon exists in the lives of all who believe in the Mystic Law, chant daimoku, and work for kosen-rufu; it encompasses all of the treasures of the universe.
ULTIMATELY, it all comes down to you confidently sharing your conviction and experience in faith with your friends. This plants the seeds of happiness and hope in the lives of those you talk with. These seeds will definitely take root, bud and eventually flower. Until that happens, it is enough that you continue chanting and wait for that time to come.
DAIMOKU is the key. Daimoku is the mother bird that warms and hatches the egg of potential that is you yourself. The inside of a bird’s egg is liquid. Just looking at it, you would never guess that it could ever become a bird. But when the egg is warmed by the mother bird, slowly from this liquid a beak forms, then eyes, then wings, until eventually a fine bird emerges that can soar high into the sky.
WE should never place unreasonable demands on our fellow members. To overstrain oneself and to have strong faith are two different things. Unless we are in good health, we cannot fully and unstintingly devote ourselves to activities for kosen-rufu. We should advance with wisdom and common sense, and show actual proof of good health and longevity.
OUR organization for kosen-rufu exists so that each member can attain absolute happiness. Let us make it perfectly clear that the objective of this organization is your happiness.
YOU were born into this world alone and you will die alone. This cycle will continue eternally. You must continually strengthen yourself by chanting daimoku, the most wondrous medicine, whose efficacy is unlimited.
THERE are people who live in lavish mansions, but are not happy in the least. There are those who are fabulously rich, yet miserable. Wealth does not equal happiness. Rather, for many people it can actually be a source of suffering. Similarly, just because you gain social position or graduate from a prestigious university does not necessarily mean you will be happy.
NICHIREN DAISHONIN said, “Suffer what there is to suffer, enjoy what there is to enjoy.” (WND, p681) By leading such a vigourous and vibrant life, we are able to advance each day by leaps and bounds towards absolute happiness, and help others do the same.
CONVICTION gives birth to courage. Faith is the highest conviction. For this reason, people of faith must possess the greatest courage.
NICHIREN DAISHONIN stated in the Gosho, “There is no greater happiness for human beings than chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.” So long as you maintain strong faith, resolutely chanting daimoku to the Gohonzon no matter happens, then you will without fail be able to lead a life of complete fulfillment. This is in accordance with the principle that earthly desires are enlightenment.
FAITH is the important thing. Everything is ultimately determined by the strength of one’s faith. I hope you will be confident of the greatness of faith, and lead lives that brighten your workplaces, communities and society itself.
FIRST, chant daimoku.
First, be in good health.
First, work cheerfully.
First, establish your finances.
And first, take the initiative.
WHAT is the purpose of life? It is happiness. And there are two kinds of happiness: relative and absolute. Relative happiness comes in a variety of forms. The purpose of Buddhism is to attain Buddhahood. In modern times, this could be explained as realizing absolute happiness – a state of happiness that can never be destroyed or defeated.
“SUCH-and-such is sick. So-and-so is suffering financially. I must do my best to give them encouragement.” To think in this way, to offer prayers and take action for others’ happiness – this is the behaviour of a Buddhist. Those who make efforts to bring joy to others even though they may be suffering themselves are bodhisattvas.
TO have the desire to sit in front of the Gohonzon and chant daimoku is very important. It is an expression of one’s determination to improve oneself. That spirit is important. That spirit is the proof of our humanity, an expression of the noble spirit to accomplish something with our lives.
THE human heart is unfathomable. It is fickle and constantly changing. From moment to moment, our inner state of mind changes; we experience various emotions – joy, sorrow, anger, pain. Life, too, is full of changes. That is why, for countless centuries and millennia, humanity has pondered the question of what constitutes the best and surest way to lasting happiness.
EARTHLY desires (bonno) are the eternal destiny of human beings. But for one with strong faith in Mystic Law, they will become enlightenment (bodai) and the treasure of a happy state of life. With faith, everything can serve to help strengthen and polish our character and expand our happiness.
ONLY if you challenge your human revolution in a manner that is true to yourself will the people around you naturally begin to trust and respect you. That in itself is the greatest way of laying the groundwork for the spread of True Buddhism.
WITHOUT practice, there is no Buddhism. In order for a person to become top-notch in anything, he or she must undergo training and practice. This is the key to achieving victory. To continue striving vigourously in one’s Buddhist practice, no matter what, is itself proof of victory in life.
AS long as one is holed up in egoism, there is no happiness. It is when we break out and take action for others that our lives spring with vitality. We become happy ourselves and we help others to do the same. This is analogous to the two motions of a planet which rotates on its axis while revolving around the sun. It is a universal principle.
WE possess the eternal prime point of faith. Those who persist in faith throughout their lives will never be deadlocked at the most fundamental level. For there are no deadlocks in the Mystic Law and faith is the source of infinite hope. It is the vacillating, doubting human heart that creates deadlocks.
NICHIREN DAISHONIN wrote: “Though we may experience suffering for a time, in the end we will savour joy.” (Gosho Zenshu, p1565) No matter what suffering and pain you may encounter in life’s journey, you can ultimately transform it all into joy. This is the quintessence of faith.
PRECISELY because our lives are endowed with the world of Buddhahood, it is possible for us to believe in the Lotus Sutra. And when we summon forth the power of faith and believe in the Lotus Sutra, we can liberate the power of the world of Buddhahood inherent in our lives and channel it into creating value. Our continual practice then enables us to display the power of the world of Buddhahood all the more strongly.
LIFE is bright and cheerful if you always try to see things in a positive light, and move in a positive direction. To always moping around with a gloomy expression on one’s face or with a face set in lines of complaint and discontentment, or to only do things grudgingly, without enthusiasm, is a joyless and tedious way of life.
WHEN we speak of showing actual proof, it does not mean we have to try to put on a show of being in any way more knowledgeable or accomplished than we are. It is my hope that, in the manner that best suits your unique situation, you will show proof of validity of this Buddhism by making steady improvements in your daily life and polishing your character, and also in your family, place of work and community.
WHEN one prays earnestly to the Gohonzon with a mind of faith, all the problems occurring in the realities of daily life – that is, the sufferings arising from the illusions or as the effects of bad karma – can be perceived as, and actually transformed into, influences leading to enlightened wisdom and benefit. This great road of happiness lies in our daily life, based upon faith.
IN the realm of Buddhism we are all equal and we are all worthy of respect. We all have a mission and we are all equally direct disciples of Nichiren Daishonin. Everyone, therefore, has the right to voice their opinions. It is also important that we listen to everyone’s opinions as well. It is crucial, too, to create an atmosphere within our organisation where people can discuss things freely.
IF you are not arrogant, do not put on airs, and are not obsessed with status, fame or wealth, you can bring on a strength that is truly selfless; you will not begrudge giving of yourself to others. On the other hand, if you hunger even a little for such fleeting vanities, your faith will slide downhill.
IT is the job of the doctors to cure illness. Faith enables us to accumulate good fortune and summon forth the essential life force to fight against illness. Live with courage and wisdom, so that everything – doctors, medicine and the encouragement of friends – may function as shoten zenjin, a protective and positive influence, for you life.
SINCE we have taken the lead to embrace this great religion to which so much of mankind still remains oblivious, above all it is important that we demonstrate the value of the Buddhism by showing actual proof in our daily lives. Seeing such proof is what enables people to realize for the first time the novelty and greatness of this Buddhism, that it is something they have never encountered up to now.
WIN people’s trust in everything. That is both your own victory and a victory for kosen-rufu.
NICHIREN DAISHONIN taught that the Mystic Law possesses limitless power, permeating the entire universe. You already embrace the Mystic Law. Therefore it is certain that you will enjoy prosperity and good fortune.
OUR mission in life is to lead people to the Mystic Law, explaining that this is the Great Law for attaining true happiness and the basis of eternal peace.
BUDDHISM is not something separated from life. It is nothing more than the way of the human being. Faith is what develops truly human people. Those who allow themselves to be dominated by lust for power or other destructive desires are not human beings but some kind of unsightly creatures.
YOUR success or failure in life is not decided on your achievements and results in school. To win true victory in life requires that you keep polishing the unequaled jewel of your unique potential as you make your way through life, bringing it to shine with supreme brilliance.
THE purpose of faith is for each of us to attain happiness. The purpose of Buddhism is for each of us to be victorious. Please be deeply compassionate leaders who protect your fellow members without begrudging your lives.
NOTHING can stop time. Within the context of infinite change, our faith enables us to grasp each situation correctly and to cope with it in the most productive manner. Faith is the driving force to take us in the direction of absolute happiness.
PLEASE steadily advance along the fundamental path of “faith manifests itself in daily life”, living in the way that best suits you. Just as the sun rises everyday, if you persistently advance based on the Mystic Law, the absolute Law of the universe, you will be able to lead a life in which all desires are fulfilled, one that you cannot now even conceive of.
INNER reality is reflected in appearance and behaviour. Your behaviour reveals your heart. There is something that emanates from you and communicates itself to others. Your inner being is expressed in the way you speak, the expression of your eyes, your manners and behaviour. A person of true character radiates an unfading brilliance – an invigorating humanity, an unswerving conviction, a resolute will, and a bold determination.
IN today’s sterile urban society, it is all too easy for the individual to become swallowed up in the crowd and lose sight of his or her own identity. But in the realm of SGI, each and every person is valued and seen as someone who has a precious and unique mission to fulfill.
BUDDHISM teaches the principle of three thousand realms in a single moment of life. Through intense prayer we can significantly transform our destiny, as well as the destiny of our families and society. It is vital to pray with resolute conviction. Prayer stimulates wisdom and fills us with life force.
THE most sublime, eternal human drama is found in the dynamic transmission of correct faith, philosophy and belief from parent to child, from senior to junior, from mentor to disciple.
AT the crucial moment, it is the ordinary people who are the strongest. It is the thoroughly polished core humanity of the ordinary people that shines the most brightly. It is faith in the Mystic Law that enables us to bring out the core brilliance of this essential human core.
ONLY human beings form relations of mentor and disciple. This is proof of our humanity. It is also the way that leads to self-development. And the epitome of the mentor-disciple relationship is found in Buddhism.
LIFE is like a marathon, as is faith. Though you may lose the lead in the midst of the race, victory or defeat is decided at the finish line. Your training during your youth is for the purpose of enabling you to win ultimate and true victory. Therefore, now is the time when you must study as much as you can, and must chant abundant daimoku so that you can greatly increase your life force.
LET’S take pains to raise each of our members to be individuals of great faith, without a single exception.
NICHIREN DAISHONIN said, “The protection of the gods depends on one’s faith.” (WND, p953) If we let down our guards, then even the Buddhist gods will desert us. Carelessness is a great enemy. We must avoid carelessness at all cost.
WHEN we look after and care for others – that is, help others draw forth the strength to live – our own strength to live increases. When we help people expand their state of life, our lives also expand. This is the marvel of the Boddhisattva path; actions to benefit others cannot be separated from action to benefit one.
THERE is a saying, “The spring lies right under your feet.” In other words, wherever you find yourself, that is the place where you, in your own way, must fight and blaze new trails. Wherever you go, wherever we are – that is the very place where the Land of Eternally Tranquil Light, inherent and unchanging in our lives, exists. Those who fight resolutely and triumph wherever they go are true Buddhists.
PROPAGATION is the act of the Buddha’s envoys. He should treasure and most highly respect those who carry out this noble and benevolent practice.
NO matter what bitter or painful thing may happen, bear it and overcome through daimoku. As you do so, a life marked by the virtues of eternity (jo), happiness (raku), true self (ga) and purity (jo) will unfold. This is, moreover, the path of attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime.
PEOPLE’S trust is gained through constant efforts to be faithful and to keep promises. We must muster up a life-force great enough to comprehend others patiently.
GONGYO and daimoku might also be compared to the food which sustains our life. Chanting daimoku corresponds to the main dish and doing gongyo to the side dishes. Like the main and side dishes in a meal, the two are complementary and both are required for deriving maximum joy from one’s practice. By taking such balanced “meals” every morning and evening, you can activate your inherent Buddha nature, and eventually establish it as your fundamental state of life.
NOTHING is greater than sincerity. No mater what the immediate results may be, when viewed from a long range perspective, those who are sincere will be left with the trust and confidence of others.
IF we work hard to support and encourage a thousand of our fellow members, a thousand Buddhist gods will protect us. If we support ten thousands of our fellow members, ten thousand Buddhist gods will protect us. If we manipulate our fellow members for our selfish ends, however, the Buddhist gods will turn their backs in us in lifetime after lifetime. Do we “exploit” the members or do we “serve” them? It comes down to this one point.
I dedicate these words of second Soka Gakkai President Josei Toda to you, our Youth Division members: “I want you to be fine young people who cherish the ideal of benefiting the nation, while at the same time making efforts in your immediate environment to solidify your own foundations.”
CONCERNING our endeavours, there should never come a point when we feel “there is nothing left for us to do”. To practice with the determination that “we will spare no effort for kosen-rufu” is a reflection of our deep faith.
IF a beauty goes by, men will turn their heads, and women will go out of their way to do favours for a handsome man. In the same way, when you polish your life by doing gongyo, all Buddhas, bodhisattvas and Buddhist gods will surround you, praising and holding you under their protection. In this sense, gongyo and daimoku are like “cosmetics” that we use to beautify our lives.
TO live each day to the best of your ability, so that you can truly say that you are satisfied with what you have achieved – these unflagging efforts lead to a life of great victory. It may seem quite ordinary and mundane, but this is the noblest path of life. It is the path of outstanding human beings.
GOOD citizens are those who love both their own country and the world. A strong alliance of global citizens who possess a sound philosophy will transform the world. The development of the people constitutes the foundation and framework for human progress. Where there is such unity, members receive benefits that increase boundlessly. Though unseen, the Buddhas and bodhisattvas definitely observe all of our sincere efforts.
THE ultimate human solidarity can be forged only by the supreme unity of comrades who dedicate their lives to the great wish for kosen-rufu.
LIFE is a battle. Unless one has an unbreakable steel-like spirit, one cannot accomplish momentous undertakings. When we look at historical figures, and in modern society as well, it is only those who have forged a spirit as strong as steel that are victorious or successful. There is no one who has achieved success by taking it easy. There is no ultimate victory to be found in such an approach.
EVERYTHING depends on the heart. It is the same in our Buddhist practice. Only by struggling to deepen our faith can we bring forth our Buddha nature. Simply talking on and on about revolutionizing one’s state of life does not change anything.
BUDDHISM places first priority on people’s hearts and minds. Everything is determined by one’s heart. If one makes serious, earnest efforts, one will definitely receive benefits. In contrast, if one acts with cunning and deception, one will just as surely suffer and lose out in the end. Buddhism is very strict in this respect. This very strictness ensures that, ultimately, the serious, earnest person wins.
BUDDHISM aims to make people free in the most profound sense; its purpose is not to restrict or constrain. Doing gongyo is a right, not an obligation. Because Buddhism entails practice, tenacious efforts are required, but these are all for your sake. If you want to have great benefits or develop a profound state of life, you should exert yourself accordingly.
TRUE happiness does not exist in the pursuit of superficial value. You have an important mission to shoulder responsibility for the world in the 21st century. Therefore, you should never be carried away by shallow trends of the times and you should exert yourselves to lay the foundation of your life.
FIRST of all, let’s overcome our own weakness. With this victory, we can launch a fresh and fulfilling day. For Buddhist practice begins with winning over our own weakness.
IT is remarkable how even in the most difficult circumstances the determination of a leader can draw forth irrepressible joy and courage and can inspire profound confidence in everyone. You are all leaders of faith. Therefore, no matter what might happen, please continue resolutely leading the way to victory, encouraging everyone and helping them advance with hope and in high spirits.
HAPPINESS blooms in the garden of the heart. Big, beautiful blossoms of happiness flower in a rich and strong spiritual soil. But neither hopes nor dreams will grow in a barren spiritual soil that is dominated by violence and greed.
ACHIEVING ultimate victory in our lives is a process of concluding every challenge, each day in victory. If each small battle is inconclusive, there can be no victory; and that means defeat. Ultimately, whether we are victorious in our lives and throughout the three existences of past, present and future is determined by our efforts today; it is determined by our ichinen, or resolve, at this moment.
BECAUSE life is long, you should not be impatient. What matters most is that you embrace the Gohonzon throughout your life. It is vitally important to continually challenge yourself to chant even a little more daimoku and to pray before the Gohonzon for the fulfillment of your desires.
BUDDHISM elucidates three types of filial piety or natural obligations to parents. Giving one’s parents material goods such as clothing and food is the lowest type of filial piety. Respecting the desires of one’s parents is the middle type. And leading one’s parents to Buddhahood with the Mystic Law is the highest type.
PLEASE do not forget your mother’s love and the hardship she has endured for you. I am convinced that while a person keeps memory of his mother’s loving face alive in his mind, he will never go far astray. Similarly, as long as we bear in mind the Daishonin’s profound compassion and live in deep appreciation of it, our lives will be illuminated brightly by the light of Buddhahood.
IN faith, one’s heart is of the utmost importance. A rainbow of beauty and hope shines splendidly in the lives of people who advance harmoniously for the betterment of society with a pure heart.
SOCIAL rules and common sense should be followed. We should abide by the laws and rules of society, and as believers in true Buddhism, we should never break such rules.
WE must face each issue that crops up, without flinching, solve it, overcome it and move on to the next. That is what human life is really about. That is what it is to be alive. When you triumph over your sufferings, they will all be transformed into joy. And you yourself will grow and expand your life state.
OF course you are perfectly free to say what must be said even to your fellows in faith and it is necessary to do so. But there is a difference between words spoken with real concern for your listener and those spoken with feelings of hatred or jealousy. It is extremely important to understand and observe this distinction.
THERE are various kinds of careers and roles which people fill in society. While each role, of course, has significance, the fundamental role that we each play as a Buddhist is that of a philosopher of life and of humanity who can impart eternal value to humankind. There are also leaders in all areas of human endeavour. We are leaders of happiness and creators of peace. In this sense, our role is unique.
SHOULD you lose your pure, innocent heart, and instead develop arrogance and ugly ambition within yourself, no matter how much you may appear devoted to faith on the surface, you will never enjoy the benefits of the Gohonzon. For this reason, I hope you will maintain a pure heart and live out your most precious existence confidently, as you strive for the sake of your country.
FAITH includes unfathomable benefits and limitless good fortune; it contains the great power of the universe, transforming even the land in which one lives. Faith is the source of infinite joy, wisdom and compassion. Each of you already possesses this supreme nourishment for life. All that you have to do is to tap its limitless power.
LIFE is a struggle. Life means continuing to struggle to the end. The person who grows stronger with each struggle is happy and a true human being.
FREEDOM is not some abstract notion, separate from our lives. It is not something given to us by others. Nor is it something that belongs only to certain people and not to others. Freedom is something that ordinary people living in society must, by becoming wise and strong, win for themselves, day after day. From a certain perspective, our SGI activities can be described as a spiritual struggle to win freedom required to live decent human lives.
EVERYTHING is always changing; only the indestructible unchanging thing is Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. If you chant daimoku, you are guaranteed to open new opportunities. You will achieve an unsurpassed state of being.
ULTIMATELY, the most important thing is to keep your enthusiasm for kosen-rufu burning brightly throughout your life, to continue your battle of faith, never being defeated by devilish forces. If you stop making progress, your life will stagnate. But if you press ahead energetically, the devilish functions will disperse.
THERE is surely no more exhilarating a life than one in which we write our own unique history of human revolution each day. And the growth and transformation we achieve in this way can convince people of the greatness of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism more eloquently than anything else.
KOSEN-RUFU is the loftiest form of human diplomacy. It is a struggle of communicating the highest truth and justice. These are turbulent times. We must not be careless or negligent. As the saying goes, “You must keep up your guard, even after a victory.” To engage in a struggle is to exert oneself to the fullest extent. As long as our hearts continue to burn with this spirit, the SGI will develop boundlessly.
WE who possess a supreme commitment to spreading the Mystic Law are unequalled on strength. With this firm conviction, please lead as many people as possible to the great, eternal path of absolute happiness. And please boldly raise the banner of victory – signifying your wonderful triumph in life and struggle for kosen-rufu – in the place of your mission.
NICHIREN DAISHONIN said, “One day of life is more valuable than all the treasures of the major system.” (WND, p955) Therefore, it is important that we make the most of each and every day.
WORKING for the members, looking after them with kindness and consideration – in other words, serving the Buddha’s children – is the same as making offerings to the Buddha and the Law. The state of Buddhahood within you will be strengthened when you do this. Everything will be transformed into your personal good fortune.
UNITY is not just huddling together in a cosy flock or leaning on each other for support. True unity is the joint struggle of courageous individuals who share and put into action the stand-alone spirit. In such unity lies the key to achieving the unprecedented undertaking of kosen-rufu.
NOTHING is wasted in working for kosen-rufu. Absolutely nothing ever goes to waste in our efforts to introduce Buddhism to others. I am sure that, at times, many of you are concerned and anxious that your efforts to share Nichiren Daishonin’s teachings with others are not proceeding as you might hope. But these are all noble struggles that arise out of your desire to lead others to happiness.
YOU are all important emissaries of the Buddha and the Buddha’s children. You are also brave followers of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth, who were born here with the pledge to bring happiness to your country. Therefore, as long as you exert yourself to succeed in your daily life and to contribute to society based on strong faith, you will assuredly be able to realize true happiness in life, and to crown your life with eternal merit and good fortune.
THERE are cases when one wonders why merit does not reveal itself in spite of our earnest and high degree of faith. At such times, rather than suspecting that you may entertain doubt about the Gohonzon, it is better to ask yourself whether you are guilty of the four types of slander. Because a person, who is contemptuous, hating, jealous or holds grudge, will realize no benefits.
BUDDHISM is reason. Going against reason is not Buddhism. The correct path of Buddhism is to manifest one’s faith in daily life. This is because Buddhism embraces all phenomena. The purpose of your faith is to make you healthier and more refreshed than anyone and to help you live a positive and meaningful life.
TO be young is wonderful. But whether you can appreciate this is another matter. You have an infinitely great mission. But the outcome of your life will be completely different, depending on whether or not you can recognize your good fortune in having such a profound mission.
WE ourselves are the treasure towers of the Mystic Law. The place we are now, wherever it may be, is the Land of Eternally Tranquil Light that has existed for all time. Therefore, we have nothing to fear. We will never be deadlocked. We will never become unhappy.
WE practice faith in order to attain Buddhahood in this lifetime. By persevering in faith throughout your life you can achieve Buddhahood, the ultimate fruition of human existence.
WHEN you worship the Gohonzon, the door to your microcosm is opened to the universe, the macrocosm, and you experience a great, boundless joy, as if you were looking out over the entire cosmos. You feel great satisfaction and rejoicing, a great wisdom, as if you held the entire universe in your palm. The microcosm enfolded by the macrocosm reaches out to enfold the macrocosm in its own embrace.
IT is fun to win. There is glory in it. There is pride. And it gives us confidence. When people lose, they are gloomy and depressed. They complain. They are sad and pitiful. That is why we must win. Happiness lies in winning. Buddhism, too, is a struggle to emerge victorious.
NO matter how you adorn yourself with the trappings of fame, rank, academic credentials, knowledge or wealth, if you are impoverished or bankrupt inside, your life will be barren and empty. What kind of person are you when all those externals have been stripped away, when you stand unadorned except your own humanity? Human revolution is the challenge to change our life at the very core.
NATURALLY, leaders and their families will have their share of problems, just like other families. There may be illness to deal with or a host of other areas that need attention. You should not feel the slightest bit to be ashamed of this. We live in human society and we are an organization of human beings. As Nichiren Daishonin said, “It is the heart that is important.” Appearances are inconsequential. Though various things may happen on our lives, ultimately what matters is our heart. What matters is our attitude in faith.