In Nichiren Buddhism, both those who share its teachings and those who hear about it, receive abundant benefit. Our conversation with others to inspire one another is the direct path to the happiness of both ourselves and others.
Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance, with universal value and application
Those who continue to make steady efforts are the most remarkable and respect-worthy. While construction calls for desperate struggles, destruction is brought about in an instant. Let’s never allow any devils to get close, and tenaciously advance along the great path of honour! Struggles transform into brilliant achievements (through our practice). The Daishonin asserts, "But still I am not discouraged.” What's important is not to give up by challenging ourselves with an indomitable spirit to take one more step and try yet again. Let’s, all of us, challenge ourselves with a lively youthful spirit! Be it something for the sake of our own personal lives or kosen-rufu, there is always that battle against oneself. If we really are to going to live, then let's achieve something historic! As the Daishonin encourages us, let’s advance "day by day and month after month!" The main stage of worldwide kosen-rufu is in our own beloved neighbourhoods. Let’s plant seeds abundant with hope in our treasured neighbours' hearts. Let’s advance together along the great path with blossoms of human flowers! It’s not a question of “I wonder what might happen?” but one of “What must I do to make it happen?” A solid sense of responsibility towards the future is what gives birth to courage and wisdom. Let’s not forget that each and every one of us is playing a leading role in opening the way to a new era! If we feel stuck, let's return to our starting point. Is my purpose clear? Are my goals and targets specific? What are we practising this faith for? Let's change adversity into an opportunity! Those of you who are delivering the Seikyo Shinbun and/or our other SGI publications, I thank you with the utmost respect for your perseverance in this brutally cold weather! At the same time, to all of the local reporters of our publications and those people in charge of promoting subscriptions, again my sincerest appreciation for your efforts! I earnestly chant for the absolute safety and good health of all of you who are the backbone of our regular publications! Nichiren Buddhism is the teaching “to remove suffering and to give happiness.” Sincerely empathising with our friends who are in the midst of hardship, let’s chant daimoku together with them until their hardship is resolved. Our wholehearted and persistent encouragement to our friends is certain to turn on the light of courage in their hearts. The Daishonin teaches us, “In any event, the seeds of Buddhahood exist nowhere apart from the Lotus Sutra.." Cheerfully and in high spirits, let’s talk about the Mystic Law to others with great conviction! Herein lies the creation of happiness. |
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July 2018
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