A “mission” is not something we are charged with doing nor is it something we are given, it is something that we ourselves have chosen to do and so pursue of our own free will. By exerting ourselves to fulfil such a mission with unrelenting effort and perseverance, let’s be victorious in our lives!
Translation of "To My Friends" published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda's recent guidance, with universal value and application
Everything begins from our chanting Daimoku. It’s precisely when we are at our busiest that it is absolutely vital to chant Daimoku, not only out of gratitude but also with the determination towards fulfilling our vow for kosen-rufu. This is how we then can draw out the very best of wisdom from within ourselves and overflow with both hope and courage in order to take that necessary action! Buddhism is a philosophy that teaches us how to be independent and self reliant. Instead of depending on other people to do something for us, we must stand up on our own. We, ourselves must make the effort to transform our environment. Let’s all fervently pursue our human revolution! “Leaders" must constantly be thinking about what to say and what actions to take so that everyone around them can feel reassured and at the same time can manifest their full potential. The ability to breathe conviction and impart confidence is of critical importance! First of all, let’s take the initiative ourselves to engage in dialogue with others, one person at a time! Let’s also reach out to each of our fellow members and offer them words of warm encouragement! It’s the determination of each and every one of us to limitlessly expand our efforts that boundlessly enables the expansion and development of kosen-rufu. It’s in the midst of challenging ourselves in activities for the sake of kosen-rufu that we can elevate our life condition way beyond our imagination! The Daishonin states, "(The greater the hardships befalling him,) the greater the delight he feels, because of his strong faith."* Let's advance, no matter what, by proudly taking on any and all challenges that might confront us. Let's be careful about accidents especially at dusk and night time when visibility becomes low. Walking and focusing on something else at the same time like a mobile phone or other device, is dangerous. Also, if and when riding a bicycle, let's be sure to turn on the lights early enough, before it gets dark! Genuine youthfulness lies in the power of spirit to strive constantly to improve oneself. Living without making any effort to progress naturally leads to our life state lowering. By not yielding to living a life of comfort and ease, let’s create another drama of new challenges for the sake of kosen-rufu! Those whose faith flows consistently, sparing no effort when it comes to taking sincere action, are certain to build a solid and indestructible state of life! Let’s advance one step at a time with sincerity and pure-hearted faith! The Gosho says: "...ordinary people keep in mind the words 'earnest resolve' and thereby become Buddhas."* Our inner resolve to work for the sake of kosen-rufu is the key to developing a higher life condition of absolute happiness! I hope that you can and will live lives constantly overflowing with good fortune and benefit! |
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