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.

Sensei's daily encouragement 07.20.10

Our lives are ruled by impermanence. But simply realizing that changes nothing. There is no value in bleak pessimism. The challenge is how to create something of enduring value within the context of our impermanent lives. The Lotus Sutra teaches us how to do this.

One's attitude can totally transform one's situation. The thing is to decide to spend each day happily and productively - wherever you happen to be. A wise person can create value under any circumstances.

Sensei's daily encouragement 07.09.10

Even in times of hardship, the important thing is for each of us to determine that we are the star, protagonist and hero of our lives and keep moving forward. Putting ourselves down and shrinking back from the obstacles looming before us spell certain defeat. Through making ourselves strong and developing our state of life, we can definitely find a way through. As long as we uphold the Mystic Law throughout our lives, we can break through any impasse and surmount any obstacle. We will also be able to lead all those who are suffering to happiness.

Looking to others will not help. True happiness and victory are found in creating our own goals, working towards them and attaining them - and in being satisfied with our achievements and having no regrets.

Sensei's daily encouragement 07.03.10

Day of Mentor and Disciple.
1945: President Josei Toda is released from Toyotama Prison.
1957: President Daisaku Ikeda is arrested in Osaka on false charges.

Those who have a mentor in life are truly fortunate. The path of mentor and disciple is one that leads to personal development and growth. Those without a mentor may appear free and unbeholden to anyone, but without a solid standard or model on which to base themselves their lives will be aimless and wandering.

Those who have a firm grasp of the reason and purpose for which they are engaged in a particular undertaking are strong. If this point is firmly established, then your life will be free of confusion. No matter how painful the circumstances, you will not lose heart, but will be able to keep growing strong and upright.

Sensei's daily encouragement 06.24.10

You must be strong. There is no hope of winning in this chaotic world if you are weak. No matter what others do or say, it is important to develop your ability and then put that ability to use. Strong faith, of course, is the best means for drawing out one's inner strength. You each have a very important mission, and I hope you will awaken to and be proud of that mission.

Life is a struggle. Life means struggling to the end. The person who grows stronger with each struggle is happy and is a true human being.