continually direct our minds in a bright, positive and beneficial direction

SGI President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 5, 2011

It is important that we live cheerfully. With a strong spirit of optimism, we need to be able to continually direct our minds in a bright, positive and beneficial direction and help those around us do so, too. We should strive to develop a state of life where we feel a sense of joy no matter what happens.

Cowardly people are quick to rely on others, assuming that someone else will take care of things for them. They do not make any efforts themselves. On the contrary, they often engage in wrongdoing when no one is watching and cause trouble for their colleagues. Ultimately, they wind up in a situation where they can no longer remain in the same circle, prompting them to betray their friends and leave.

GOSHO PASSAGE

Tsukimaro must have chanted Nam-myoho-rennge-kyo with her very first cry at birth. The Lotus Sutra speaks of "the true aspect of all phenomena." T'ien-t'ai said, "Voices do the Buddha's work." This is also what I think. The deaf cannot hear the thunder, and the blind cannot see the light of the sun and moon. But I am quite certain that the ten demon daughters must be together side by side, giving the baby her first bath and watching over her growth.

(WND 188) The Birth of Tsukimaro
Written to Nichigen-nyo and Shijo Kingo on May 8, 1271

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

Each of you should summon up the courage of a lion king and never succumb to threats from anyone. The lion king fears no other beast, nor do its cubs. Slanderers are like barking foxes, but Nichiren's followers are like roaring lions. - Nichiren

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Friday, February 19 (1960) Fair

   Took an express from Yokohama Station to Kansai at 9:26 a.m., to conduct lectures. Traveled alone. Traveling alone is the best time for me to think in peace.
   Ran into N. on the way. Invited him to the dining car with me. He told me he feels encouraged every time he sees me.
   After giving a lecture, rested at the G. hotel. Nice to hear a lot of Gakkai members work at this hotel.
   Pondered many things. Could not fall asleep until very late. Must take good care of my health.
   Important to live life surrounded by good people.