To My Friends 10.03.10

Ikeda Sensei:

In order to overcome any apathy or sluggishness we might have we really must make an effort to change. It is so important that we conquer our weaknesses.

Through patiently and consistently challenging ourselves, the great drama of our human revolution shines.

Sensei's Footprints 10.02.1960

OCTOBER 2, 1960: World Peace Day President Ikeda lands in Hawaii on his first trip outside Japan, beginning his worldwide efforts for peace, culture and education based on Nichiren’s Buddhism.

Ikeda Sensei:

Our first discussion meeting in the United States was held in Hawaii, on October 2, 1960, on the first leg of the trip with which I inaugurated my travels for worldwide kosen-rufu. There were less than thirty people present, including the children. I spoke earnestly about Buddhism and faith to every participant and answered each of their questions with all sincerity.

I proposed at that meeting that the first overseas district be formed. No one in my entourage had thought of this move.

Sensei's daily encouragement 09.26.10

Our voice costs nothing and it is our strongest weapon. Nichiren Daishonin wrote, "Do not spare your voice" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 726). There are different voices for different situations: the clear, resounding voice that declares truth and justice; the strong voice that refutes evil; the bright, confident voice that tells others about the greatness of this Buddhism; the warm voice that gives encouragement; the sincere, friendly voice that offers praise and words of appreciation to others. The important thing is that we meet and speak with people widely, inside and outside the organization.

No matter how hopeless and bleak things appear, the moment always comes when suddenly the spirit is revived, and hope reborn. That is why one must never give up, and certainly never attempt anything as drastic as suicide.

To My Friends 09.26.2010

Ikeda Sensei:

"In a letter sent to Toki Jonin, one of the central figures among his lay followers, Nichiren Daishonin sternly cautions: 'You must not spend your lives in vain and regret it for ten thousand years to come' (WND-1, 622). And he adds in the postscript: 'I hope all those who are serious in their resolve will gather in one place and listen to this letter [being read]' (WND-1, 622)."

"As disciples, it's not enough that we simply read the Daishonin's writings or our mentor's guidance in quiet solitude. We should have the spirit to gather together in one place with our fellow practitioners. The earnest resolve in making an effort to assemble in this way has the power to defeat negativity and devilish functions. And by joining together with others to study the Daishonin's writings and our mentor's guidance, we can summon forth lion-like courage to undertake the task of actualising the great vow of kosen-rufu.

"Even if beforehand we don't really feel like attending a meeting, once we get there we invariably find ourselves refreshed and invigorated. Meetings have a wondrous power to draw us towards happiness and victory."

To My Friends 09.25.2010

Sensei:

Let's firmly determine never to be the cause of a traffic accident. Whether you are driving a car or riding a bicycle,strictly follow the traffic rules!

Let's always keep in mind that seemingly small trivial matters are in fact important ones.

A Youthful Diary - Monday, April 9 (1956) Cloudy, then clear

The sun shone brilliantly. Yesterday's storm seems like a dream. Spent the morning discussing various plans with the Culture Department chief. He is young. I, too, am young. We each have strong opinions. Reflect. We must excuse each other's intrinsic arrogance.

Left for home on the Dove at 12:30 from Umeda Station. Couldn't read during the eight-hour ride. Regret I wasted the time. Must quit smoking if I want to improve my health. My wife and brother greeted me at Yokohama Station. It was comforting. Returned to my pleasant, happy home. Remember Sensei's mercy. Worried those close to him lack compassion.

To My Friends 09.20.2010

When the seasons begin to change, let's be careful about the frequent changes in temperature.

Maintaining a good rhythm in our daily lives, let's make our being in good health our top priority so that we can all continue to carry out our unique and noble roles.