For Today and TomorrowDaily Encouragement by Daisaku IkedaWho is truly great? I hope you can develop the ability to discern true human greatness. A great person is someone who forges unity among human beings through sincere dialogue, armed with a solid philosophy, feet firmly planted on the ground. A great person is one who lives among the people and earns their unshakable trust. Fickle popularity and temporary fads are nothing but illusions.
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Buddhism Day by DayWisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Ralph Waldo Emerson writes: "And so of cheerfulness, or a good temper, the more it is spent, the more of it remains." Cheerfulness is not the same as frivolousness. Cheerfulness is born of a fighting spirit. Frivolousness is the reverse side of cowardly escape. Emerson also said that "power dwells with cheerfulness; hope puts us in a working mood." Without cheerfulness there is no strength. Strive to advance still more brightly and cheerfully.
Daily WisdomFrom the Writings of Nichiren DaishoninTo hope to attain Buddhahood without speaking out against slander is as futile as trying to find water in the midst of fire or fire in the midst of water. No matter how sincerely one believes in the Lotus Sutra, if one is guilty of failing to rebuke slander of the Law, one will surely fall into hell, just a single crab leg will ruin a thousand pots of lacquer. This is the meaning of the passage in the sutra, "Because the poison has penetrated deeply and their minds no longer function as before."
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
A great person is someone who forges unity among human beings
Kosenrufu is a long struggle,
For Today and TomorrowDaily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 28, 2015
Kosen-rufu is a very long struggle. It is a march that will continue over the 10,000 years of the Latter Day of the Law. Therefore, let us advance joyfully and unhurriedly. Activities must not be conducted in such a way that people suffer and become exhausted. Meetings should be short and not too numerous and conducted so that they are valuable and productive for all concerned.
Buddhism Day by DayWisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, December 28, 2015
Those who believe in the Lotus Sutra are as if in winter, but winter always turns to spring. Never, from ancient times on, has anyone heard or seen of winter turning back to autumn. Nor have we ever heard of a believer in the Lotus Sutra who turned into an ordinary person. The sutra reads, "If there are those who hear the Law, then not a one will fail to attain Buddhahood."-Nichiren
Daily WisdomFrom the Writings of Nichiren DaishoninMonday, December 28, 2015
In the next life you should use this sword as your staff. The Lotus Sutra is the staff that helps all the Buddhas of the three existences as they set their minds on enlightenment. However, you should rely upon Nichiren as your staff and pillar. When one uses a staff, he will not fall on treacherous mountain paths or rough roads, and when led by the hand, he will never stumble.
Monday, December 28, 2015
Friday, December 25, 2015
Peace and culture is indivisible
Buddhism Day by DayWhere is happiness to be found? The famous Roman philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius said, "A man's true delight is to do the things he was made for." Human happiness, he maintained, lies in doing those things only humans can: seeking the truth and acting to help those who are suffering. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, too, asserted that those who work cheerfully and take joy in the fruits of their labor are truly happy. These are the words of great thinkers, and as you can see they are in complete accord with the teachings of Buddhism.Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku IkedaThursday, December 24, 2015
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Happiness is found in the helping those who are suffering to become happy
Buddhism Day by DayWhere is happiness to be found? The famous Roman philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius said, "A man's true delight is to do the things he was made for." Human happiness, he maintained, lies in doing those things only humans can: seeking the truth and acting to help those who are suffering. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, too, asserted that those who work cheerfully and take joy in the fruits of their labor are truly happy. These are the words of great thinkers, and as you can see they are in complete accord with the teachings of Buddhism.Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku IkedaThursday, December 24, 2015
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Buddhism strives for its believers to be wise
For Today and TomorrowEncouragement by Daisaku IkedaThursday, December 24, 2015Many religions have demanded blind faith, taking away people's independence. President Makiguchi opposed such enslavement. What he called for instead was solidarity of awakened common people. To achieve this, he proposed a self-reliant way of life in which we advance on the path of our choice with a firm, independent character. He also stressed a contributive way of life in which we set our fundamental goal in life toward the realization of happiness for ourselves and others, casting aside arrogance and self-satisfaction to respect and benefit others.
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Buddhism transcends superficial differences
Buddhism Day by DayWisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku IkedaFriday, December 25, 2015Buddhism does not ask "What religion does this person follow?" but "What is this person's state of life?" Buddhism exists to enable all people to cultivate and manifest the world of Buddhahood in their lives. Society is a realm of discrimination and distinctions. But Buddhism transcends all superficial differences and focuses directly on life.
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Suffering and happiness
Daily WisdomAnd if we go by the words of the Lotus Sutra, you should also teach the sutra to the best of your ability. When the world makes you feel downcast, you should chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, remembering that, although the sufferings of this life are painful, those in the next life could be much worse. And when you are happy, you should remember that your happiness in this life is nothing but a dream within a dream, and that the only true happiness is that found in the pure land of Eagle Peak, and with that thought in mind, chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.From the Writings of Nichiren DaishoninFriday, December 25, 2015
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Thursday, December 24, 2015
Give something
December 25
If a person is hungry, we should give them bread. When there is no bread, we can at least give words that nourish. To a person who looks ill or is physically frail, we can turn the conversation to some subject that will lift their spirits and fill them with the hope and determination to get better. Let us give something to each person we meet: joy, courage, hope, assurance, philosophy, wisdom, a vision for the future. Let us always give something.
Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President
If a person is hungry, we should give them bread. When there is no bread, we can at least give words that nourish. To a person who looks ill or is physically frail, we can turn the conversation to some subject that will lift their spirits and fill them with the hope and determination to get better. Let us give something to each person we meet: joy, courage, hope, assurance, philosophy, wisdom, a vision for the future. Let us always give something.
Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President
Friday, December 18, 2015
LEAF, BRANCH OR ROOT
LEAF, BRANCH OR ROOT
I have this tree analogy when I think of people in my life, be it friends, family, acquaintances, employees, co-workers, whomever...They are all placed inside what I call my tree test. It goes like this:
LEAF PEOPLE
Some people come into your life and they are like leaves on a tree. They are only there for a season. You can't depend on them or count on them because they are weak and only there to give you shade. Like leaves, they are there to take what they need and as soon as it gets cold or a wind blows in your life they are gone. You can't be angry at them, it's just who they are.
BRANCH PEOPLE
There are some people who come into your life and they are like branches on a tree. They are stronger than leaves, but you have to be careful with them. They will stick around through most seasons, but if you go through a storm or two in your life it's possible that you could lose them. Most times they break away when it's tough. Although they are stronger than leaves, you have to test them out before you run out there and put all your weight on them. In most cases they can't handle too much weight. But again, you can't be mad with them, it's just who they are.
ROOT PEOPLE
If you can find some people in your life who are like the roots of a tree then you have found something special. Like the roots of a tree, they are hard to find because they are not trying to be seen. Their only job is to hold you up and help you live a strong and healthy life. If you thrive, they are happy. They stay low key and don't let the world know that they are there. And if you go through an awful storm they will hold you up. Their job is to hold you up, come what may, and to nourish you, feed you and water you.
A tree has many limbs and many leaves but there are few roots.
Look at your own life. How many leaves, branches and roots do you have?
What are you in other people's lives?
Can you become a root for many?
Most definitely you can because you have this beautiful practice which enables you to do your human revolution and elevate your life state. When you change, the people around you will change too.
President Ikeda says and I quote:
"Your mission is to become the strongest, brightest, and most pure hearted of all, regardless of your circumstances, and to live a life in which you can declare that you are supremely happy." Unquote.
NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO
(Above taken from NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO Facebook page)
Sent from my iPhone
I have this tree analogy when I think of people in my life, be it friends, family, acquaintances, employees, co-workers, whomever...They are all placed inside what I call my tree test. It goes like this:
LEAF PEOPLE
Some people come into your life and they are like leaves on a tree. They are only there for a season. You can't depend on them or count on them because they are weak and only there to give you shade. Like leaves, they are there to take what they need and as soon as it gets cold or a wind blows in your life they are gone. You can't be angry at them, it's just who they are.
BRANCH PEOPLE
There are some people who come into your life and they are like branches on a tree. They are stronger than leaves, but you have to be careful with them. They will stick around through most seasons, but if you go through a storm or two in your life it's possible that you could lose them. Most times they break away when it's tough. Although they are stronger than leaves, you have to test them out before you run out there and put all your weight on them. In most cases they can't handle too much weight. But again, you can't be mad with them, it's just who they are.
ROOT PEOPLE
If you can find some people in your life who are like the roots of a tree then you have found something special. Like the roots of a tree, they are hard to find because they are not trying to be seen. Their only job is to hold you up and help you live a strong and healthy life. If you thrive, they are happy. They stay low key and don't let the world know that they are there. And if you go through an awful storm they will hold you up. Their job is to hold you up, come what may, and to nourish you, feed you and water you.
A tree has many limbs and many leaves but there are few roots.
Look at your own life. How many leaves, branches and roots do you have?
What are you in other people's lives?
Can you become a root for many?
Most definitely you can because you have this beautiful practice which enables you to do your human revolution and elevate your life state. When you change, the people around you will change too.
President Ikeda says and I quote:
"Your mission is to become the strongest, brightest, and most pure hearted of all, regardless of your circumstances, and to live a life in which you can declare that you are supremely happy." Unquote.
NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO
(Above taken from NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO Facebook page)
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Wednesday, December 16, 2015
The purpose of our faith is to become wise
Daily Encouragement by Daisaku IkedaFaith manifests itself as wisdom. The purpose of our faith is to become wise, so that we can live wisely. The desire to save others becomes merely an abstract goal if those who practice faith cannot communicate with their own children nor build strong and happy families.
Monday, December 14, 2015
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
THE KEY TO HAPPY RELATIONSHIPS
THE KEY TO HAPPY RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships are a major part of the human existence and having one is pretty much inescapable. While the depth of our connections with others may vary, they are nevertheless an important part of our lives. Often, the relationships we form with others are sources of joy. However, there are two sides to every coin and experiencing pain from time to time is a matter of certainty. When our most cherished relationships become challenging, it can feel as though our whole world just turned upside down. Usually, when difficulties arise our instinct is to blame the other person. However, blame may not the best route for getting things back on track. More often than not, what we really need to do is take a good hard look at ourselves.
The following important points from the wonderful article in Living Buddhism, called "The Key to Happy Relationships" highlight how we can improve the important connections we share with others.
THE KEYS TO HAPPY RELATIONSHIPS
#1 The key to developing healthy, happy, and meaningful relationships is you.
#2 Happiness is not something someone else can give us. Only we can give this to ourselves.
#3 How we feel in response to another person's actions is our responsibility. "It's not the other person's behavior but our experience and response to it that causes us to feel happy or unhappy."
#4 Happiness is achievable when we make a commitment to our own personal development and realize our full potential as human beings.
#5 If we want to improve the quality of our relationships, then we must work to change and improve ourselves first. "When we change, the people around us respond to that change."
#6 Relationships and our interactions with others are a reflection of ourselves. For example, if my relationships are negative or filled with strife, that is a reflection of my own internal state of life. So, when I change and become more positive, the people in my life respond to that change. In this way, my interactions with others become a more positive experience.
In the end, relationships provide wonderful opportunities for us to learn, grow, and improve ourselves.
Sent from my iPhone
Relationships are a major part of the human existence and having one is pretty much inescapable. While the depth of our connections with others may vary, they are nevertheless an important part of our lives. Often, the relationships we form with others are sources of joy. However, there are two sides to every coin and experiencing pain from time to time is a matter of certainty. When our most cherished relationships become challenging, it can feel as though our whole world just turned upside down. Usually, when difficulties arise our instinct is to blame the other person. However, blame may not the best route for getting things back on track. More often than not, what we really need to do is take a good hard look at ourselves.
The following important points from the wonderful article in Living Buddhism, called "The Key to Happy Relationships" highlight how we can improve the important connections we share with others.
THE KEYS TO HAPPY RELATIONSHIPS
#1 The key to developing healthy, happy, and meaningful relationships is you.
#2 Happiness is not something someone else can give us. Only we can give this to ourselves.
#3 How we feel in response to another person's actions is our responsibility. "It's not the other person's behavior but our experience and response to it that causes us to feel happy or unhappy."
#4 Happiness is achievable when we make a commitment to our own personal development and realize our full potential as human beings.
#5 If we want to improve the quality of our relationships, then we must work to change and improve ourselves first. "When we change, the people around us respond to that change."
#6 Relationships and our interactions with others are a reflection of ourselves. For example, if my relationships are negative or filled with strife, that is a reflection of my own internal state of life. So, when I change and become more positive, the people in my life respond to that change. In this way, my interactions with others become a more positive experience.
In the end, relationships provide wonderful opportunities for us to learn, grow, and improve ourselves.
Sent from my iPhone
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Five Points of Faith
Five Points of Faith
1. If you only talk to others about your problems, you may develop an attitude of complaint, but if you take your problems to the Gohonzon, this become prayer.
2. If you suffer only for the sake of mundane matters, that suffering will remain with you, but if you suffer for the sake of faith, you will gain joy and good fortune.
3. If you only react emotionally to others, you may tend to habor ill feelings (onshitsu), but if you can embrace them through daimoku, you yourself will grow.
4. If you seek only techniques and strategies, you will become confused and go astray, but if you make a determination and pray to fulfill it, your innate wisdom will emerge.
5. If you decide that you cannot do something, then you will indeed be unable to do it. But if you resolve to do it and pray to carry out your resolution, your latent ability will emerge.
(Compliment of Pioneer member, Makiyo Campbell – Wichita Falls, Texas.)
境涯革命五原則
1.說向他人變牢騷，訴於本尊是祈願
2.世法勞苦徒勞苦，信心勞苦福運多
3.感情用事怨嫉大，題目包容成長多
4.講求方法易迷失，祈願深深智慧來
5.以為不能就不能，祈願來做就可能
Sent from my iPhone
1. If you only talk to others about your problems, you may develop an attitude of complaint, but if you take your problems to the Gohonzon, this become prayer.
2. If you suffer only for the sake of mundane matters, that suffering will remain with you, but if you suffer for the sake of faith, you will gain joy and good fortune.
3. If you only react emotionally to others, you may tend to habor ill feelings (onshitsu), but if you can embrace them through daimoku, you yourself will grow.
4. If you seek only techniques and strategies, you will become confused and go astray, but if you make a determination and pray to fulfill it, your innate wisdom will emerge.
5. If you decide that you cannot do something, then you will indeed be unable to do it. But if you resolve to do it and pray to carry out your resolution, your latent ability will emerge.
(Compliment of Pioneer member, Makiyo Campbell – Wichita Falls, Texas.)
境涯革命五原則
1.說向他人變牢騷，訴於本尊是祈願
2.世法勞苦徒勞苦，信心勞苦福運多
3.感情用事怨嫉大，題目包容成長多
4.講求方法易迷失，祈願深深智慧來
5.以為不能就不能，祈願來做就可能
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Tuesday, December 8, 2015
THE IMPORTANT THING IS TO HAVE FAITH........
"There are many trials and tribulations in life. In addition, we each have our own karma, and on top of that, when we practise our faith ardently, obstacles are certain to arise. No life is always smooth sailing. But no matter how deep the darkness of despair, faith enables us to keep the flame of hope burning in our hearts.
"Nichiren Daishonin writes: 'Maintain your faith and attain Buddhahood in this lifetime. Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo' (WND-1, 4). The Mystic Law enables us to overcome every obstacle, no matter how overwhelmed or deadlocked we may be, and establish a life-state of indestructible happiness.
"The important thing is to have faith in the Gohonzon, earnestly chant daimoku, and strive to share this Buddhism with others. If we do so, we'll be able to open a way forward. We were born into this world as human beings with a mission to become strong and happy."
Daisaku Ikeda
The New Human Revolution––Vol. 25: Chap. 1, Light of Happiness 11, translated Oct. 31st, 2011
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"Nichiren Daishonin writes: 'Maintain your faith and attain Buddhahood in this lifetime. Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo' (WND-1, 4). The Mystic Law enables us to overcome every obstacle, no matter how overwhelmed or deadlocked we may be, and establish a life-state of indestructible happiness.
"The important thing is to have faith in the Gohonzon, earnestly chant daimoku, and strive to share this Buddhism with others. If we do so, we'll be able to open a way forward. We were born into this world as human beings with a mission to become strong and happy."
Daisaku Ikeda
The New Human Revolution––Vol. 25: Chap. 1, Light of Happiness 11, translated Oct. 31st, 2011
Sent from my iPhone
Sunday, December 6, 2015
how to create value in our lives.
Words of Wisdom by President Ikeda that provide guidance and support for leading happy lives with no regrets. The following are some guidances from the New Human Revolution about how to create value in our lives.
President Ikeda writes…
"It's important to be optimistic and to look on the bright side, constantly moving forward. There are times when, even though you've been chanting [Nam-myoho-renge-kyo] for something, the situation doesn't go as you wish. But remember, there's always a reason. In the end, you will genuinely feel that things worked out for the best."
"Buddhism is a teaching of value creation, and value creation begins with having the wisdom to appreciate every situation we face and transform it into joy, hope, and victory…Let's imagine, for example, that it starts to snow. If you react negatively, thinking about how cold and slippery it is outside, then you will have a terrible day. But if instead you think to yourself: 'What a rare chance it is to see such beautiful snow! I'll show the kids how to build a snowman and create a wonderful memory with them!–then from that moment everything will be a joy."
"The key to value creation is to find joy and meaning in whatever happens, to courageously rise to the challenge. To do that, we need a philosophy of life, we need wisdom, and we need life force. In fact, that is the purpose of our faith."
"Our personal philosophy determines how we look at things. Whether we see events from a pessimistic or optimistic point of view, whether we take things positively or negatively, makes all the difference in the world."
[Buddhism] is…"a philosophy of transforming the negative into the positive. As long as we base ourselves on such a forward looking approach, we will never be deadlocked."
"How we perceive events is also intimately related to the strength of our life force. When we are weak-spirited and apathetic, we end up falling into a negative mindset in spite of our best efforts to remain positive. Our mental attitude is inseparable from our state of life. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the source of powerful unflagging vitality."
This guidance is absolutely amazing and true. When it comes to how we interact with others and experience the world, if our mind is set in darkness, if we look at the world through a negative lens then what we experience will most definitely be negative. If that negativity is taken a step further, and one reacts out of anger then we harm not only our relationships, but ourselves as well. After all, anger is poison and it is the gateway to hatred. It can cause you to lose control of your ability to think and act in a rational way. The good news is that poison can be changed into medicine. That is the power of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo! Tapping into the power of our lives or Nam-myoho-renge-kyo provides a way to channel anger into something positive thereby creating value in society. For example, someone who has been the victim of violence can channel their anger and energy into fighting for justice and world peace. It really all comes down to one's mindset. Every human being is capable of greatness, of contributing to the world, society, and the community in a positive way.
Try it out! Pay close attention to the experience you have today and remember if the mind is shrouded in negativity then negativity becomes part of your daily life. It becomes your experience. However, if the mind is positive then you are able to look on the bright side and experience the joy life brings!
Sent from my iPhone
President Ikeda writes…
"It's important to be optimistic and to look on the bright side, constantly moving forward. There are times when, even though you've been chanting [Nam-myoho-renge-kyo] for something, the situation doesn't go as you wish. But remember, there's always a reason. In the end, you will genuinely feel that things worked out for the best."
"Buddhism is a teaching of value creation, and value creation begins with having the wisdom to appreciate every situation we face and transform it into joy, hope, and victory…Let's imagine, for example, that it starts to snow. If you react negatively, thinking about how cold and slippery it is outside, then you will have a terrible day. But if instead you think to yourself: 'What a rare chance it is to see such beautiful snow! I'll show the kids how to build a snowman and create a wonderful memory with them!–then from that moment everything will be a joy."
"The key to value creation is to find joy and meaning in whatever happens, to courageously rise to the challenge. To do that, we need a philosophy of life, we need wisdom, and we need life force. In fact, that is the purpose of our faith."
"Our personal philosophy determines how we look at things. Whether we see events from a pessimistic or optimistic point of view, whether we take things positively or negatively, makes all the difference in the world."
[Buddhism] is…"a philosophy of transforming the negative into the positive. As long as we base ourselves on such a forward looking approach, we will never be deadlocked."
"How we perceive events is also intimately related to the strength of our life force. When we are weak-spirited and apathetic, we end up falling into a negative mindset in spite of our best efforts to remain positive. Our mental attitude is inseparable from our state of life. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the source of powerful unflagging vitality."
This guidance is absolutely amazing and true. When it comes to how we interact with others and experience the world, if our mind is set in darkness, if we look at the world through a negative lens then what we experience will most definitely be negative. If that negativity is taken a step further, and one reacts out of anger then we harm not only our relationships, but ourselves as well. After all, anger is poison and it is the gateway to hatred. It can cause you to lose control of your ability to think and act in a rational way. The good news is that poison can be changed into medicine. That is the power of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo! Tapping into the power of our lives or Nam-myoho-renge-kyo provides a way to channel anger into something positive thereby creating value in society. For example, someone who has been the victim of violence can channel their anger and energy into fighting for justice and world peace. It really all comes down to one's mindset. Every human being is capable of greatness, of contributing to the world, society, and the community in a positive way.
Try it out! Pay close attention to the experience you have today and remember if the mind is shrouded in negativity then negativity becomes part of your daily life. It becomes your experience. However, if the mind is positive then you are able to look on the bright side and experience the joy life brings!
Sent from my iPhone
Friday, December 4, 2015
how to create value in our lives
Words of Wisdom by President Ikeda that provide guidance and support for leading happy lives with no regrets.
The following are some guidances from the New Human Revolution about how to create value in our lives.
President Ikeda writes…
"It's important to be optimistic and to look on the bright side, constantly moving forward. There are times when, even though you've been chanting [Nam-myoho-renge-kyo] for something, the situation doesn't go as you wish. But remember, there's always a reason. In the end, you will genuinely feel that things worked out for the best."
"Buddhism is a teaching of value creation, and value creation begins with having the wisdom to appreciate every situation we face and transform it into joy, hope, and victory…Let's imagine, for example, that it starts to snow. If you react negatively, thinking about how cold and slippery it is outside, then you will have a terrible day. But if instead you think to yourself: 'What a rare chance it is to see such beautiful snow! I'll show the kids how to build a snowman and create a wonderful memory with them!–then from that moment everything will be a joy."
"The key to value creation is to find joy and meaning in whatever happens, to courageously rise to the challenge. To do that, we need a philosophy of life, we need wisdom, and we need life force. In fact, that is the purpose of our faith."
"Our personal philosophy determines how we look at things. Whether we see events from a pessimistic or optimistic point of view, whether we take things positively or negatively, makes all the difference in the world."
[Buddhism] is…"a philosophy of transforming the negative into the positive. As long as we base ourselves on such a forward looking approach, we will never be deadlocked."
"How we perceive events is also intimately related to the strength of our life force. When we are weak-spirited and apathetic, we end up falling into a negative mindset in spite of our best efforts to remain positive. Our mental attitude is inseparable from our state of life. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the source of powerful unflagging vitality."
This guidance is absolutely amazing and true. When it comes to how we interact with others and experience the world, if our mind is set in darkness, if we look at the world through a negative lens then what we experience will most definitely be negative. If that negativity is taken a step further, and one reacts out of anger then we harm not only our relationships, but ourselves as well. After all, anger is poison and it is the gateway to hatred. It can cause you to lose control of your ability to think and act in a rational way. The good news is that poison can be changed into medicine. That is the power of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo! Tapping into the power of our lives or Nam-myoho-renge-kyo provides a way to channel anger into something positive thereby creating value in society. For example, someone who has been the victim of violence can channel their anger and energy into fighting for justice and world peace. It really all comes down to one's mindset. Every human being is capable of greatness, of contributing to the world, society, and the community in a positive way.
Try it out! Pay close attention to the experience you have today and remember if the mind is shrouded in negativity then negativity becomes part of your daily life. It becomes your experience. However, if the mind is positive then you are able to look on the bright side and experience the joy life brings!
Sent from my iPhone
The following are some guidances from the New Human Revolution about how to create value in our lives.
President Ikeda writes…
"It's important to be optimistic and to look on the bright side, constantly moving forward. There are times when, even though you've been chanting [Nam-myoho-renge-kyo] for something, the situation doesn't go as you wish. But remember, there's always a reason. In the end, you will genuinely feel that things worked out for the best."
"Buddhism is a teaching of value creation, and value creation begins with having the wisdom to appreciate every situation we face and transform it into joy, hope, and victory…Let's imagine, for example, that it starts to snow. If you react negatively, thinking about how cold and slippery it is outside, then you will have a terrible day. But if instead you think to yourself: 'What a rare chance it is to see such beautiful snow! I'll show the kids how to build a snowman and create a wonderful memory with them!–then from that moment everything will be a joy."
"The key to value creation is to find joy and meaning in whatever happens, to courageously rise to the challenge. To do that, we need a philosophy of life, we need wisdom, and we need life force. In fact, that is the purpose of our faith."
"Our personal philosophy determines how we look at things. Whether we see events from a pessimistic or optimistic point of view, whether we take things positively or negatively, makes all the difference in the world."
[Buddhism] is…"a philosophy of transforming the negative into the positive. As long as we base ourselves on such a forward looking approach, we will never be deadlocked."
"How we perceive events is also intimately related to the strength of our life force. When we are weak-spirited and apathetic, we end up falling into a negative mindset in spite of our best efforts to remain positive. Our mental attitude is inseparable from our state of life. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the source of powerful unflagging vitality."
This guidance is absolutely amazing and true. When it comes to how we interact with others and experience the world, if our mind is set in darkness, if we look at the world through a negative lens then what we experience will most definitely be negative. If that negativity is taken a step further, and one reacts out of anger then we harm not only our relationships, but ourselves as well. After all, anger is poison and it is the gateway to hatred. It can cause you to lose control of your ability to think and act in a rational way. The good news is that poison can be changed into medicine. That is the power of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo! Tapping into the power of our lives or Nam-myoho-renge-kyo provides a way to channel anger into something positive thereby creating value in society. For example, someone who has been the victim of violence can channel their anger and energy into fighting for justice and world peace. It really all comes down to one's mindset. Every human being is capable of greatness, of contributing to the world, society, and the community in a positive way.
Try it out! Pay close attention to the experience you have today and remember if the mind is shrouded in negativity then negativity becomes part of your daily life. It becomes your experience. However, if the mind is positive then you are able to look on the bright side and experience the joy life brings!
Sent from my iPhone
Buddhist philosopher Daisaku Ikeda was awarded honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/in-pursuit-of-peace/article7942323.ece
In pursuit of peace
"The global turmoil that has followed terrorist attacks on Paris, Mumbai and New York in recent years underscored the need to nourish a philosophy that emphasises sanctity of life for lasting peace," said Anoop Swaroop, Vice-chancellor of Jagran Lakecity University. The occasion was awarding honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters (Humanity and Arts) to Daisaku Ikeda, Buddhist philosopher and president Soka Gakkai International (SGI) in recognition of his untiring pursuit of peace and love for humanity. Since Ikeda was not present, Minoru Harada, Soka Gakkai President, accepted the award on his behalf.
The award was held in the institution's campus in Bhopal but shown live in the Capital's Chinmaya Centre, where there was a gathering of scholars and teachers. Noting that the terrorist attacks and the retaliatory response to them make Ikeda's thought relevant in today's times, Swaroop said, "The very ethos and central tenet of Ikeda's thought, and of Buddhism, is the fundamental sanctity of life, a value which Ikeda sees as the key to lasting peace and human happiness. In Ikeda's view, global peace relies ultimately on a self-directed transformational change within the life of the individual, rather than on societal or structural reforms alone."
The citation express appreciation for Ikeda's 2015 Peace Proposal and his emphasis on dialogue for the sake of mutual co-existence as well as the self-directed transformation within the individual could lead to social transformation. Appreciated for his dedication to peace, Ikeda has received 363 honorary doctorates so far and the current honour is the 14th he has received from India.
In his acceptance speech, as conveyed by Harada at the event, Ikeda said, "As humanity wrestles with the darkness of the times, the world yearns for the light that issues from young people imbued with indestructible hope." Expressing his appreciation for the honour bestowed on him, Ikeda said it was a great privilege to be recognised by a distinguished institution of higher learning. "Educational efforts grounded in a philosophy of respect for the dignity of life can be a source of enduring inspiration to people and create unfathomable value."
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/in-pursuit-of-peace/article7942323.ece
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Thursday, December 3, 2015
guidance for anyone facing challenges at work. 😊
I AM A BUDDHA
"Because you embrace the Gohonzon, you attain Buddhahood. Wherever you go becomes the Buddha land. How many of you find the Buddha land when you go to work? If you chant daimoku to the Gohonzon in the morning with the determination that: 'I am going to bring the life of the Buddha with me, and I will transform my workplace. I need wisdom. I need strength. But I'm going to make the difference, you will be amazed at the power you already possess to transform your environment."
[excerpt from a 1995 study lecture by SGI-USA Vice General Director Greg Martin]
Sent from my iPhone
"Because you embrace the Gohonzon, you attain Buddhahood. Wherever you go becomes the Buddha land. How many of you find the Buddha land when you go to work? If you chant daimoku to the Gohonzon in the morning with the determination that: 'I am going to bring the life of the Buddha with me, and I will transform my workplace. I need wisdom. I need strength. But I'm going to make the difference, you will be amazed at the power you already possess to transform your environment."
[excerpt from a 1995 study lecture by SGI-USA Vice General Director Greg Martin]
Sent from my iPhone
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Happiness without hardwork is fantasy
Nichiren Daishonin discusses the meaning of the Chinese characters for the word benefit(Jpn kudoku), as follows: "The ku of kudoku means to extinguish evil and dokumeans to bring forth good" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 762). We fight against those who try to destroy the True Law. That struggle purifies us and brings forth benefits in our lives. Justice or happiness without a battle is just an illusion. Thinking that happiness means a life free of hard work and effort is fantasy.
Sent from my iPhone
Friday, November 27, 2015
Prayer by Daisaku Ikeda
Prayer is the courage to persevere. It is the struggle to overcome our own weakness and lack of confidence in ourselves.
It is the act of impressing in the very depths of our being the conviction that we can change the situation without fail.
Prayers are invisible, but if we pray steadfastly they will definitely affect clear results in our lives and surroundings over time.
This is the principle of the true entity of all phenomena. Faith means having confidence in this invisible realm.
Prayer is the way to destroy all fear. It is the way to banish sorrow, the way to light a torch of hope.
It is the revolution that rewrites the scenario of our destiny.
Prayers are neither light dreams nor vague wishes.They should be firm pledges of determination.
Prayers made with such strong resolve invite clear results just as magnets attract iron.
Prayer entails an intense challenge to believe in oneself and stop diminishing yourself.
To belittle yourself is to disparage Buddhism and the Buddha within your life.
Prayer is an attempt to merge the inner workings of our life with the rhythm of the universe.
When we pray in such a way,
all the workings of the universe will function to protect us and the endless cycle of painful reality
will be transformed into a cycle of victory and happiness.
Prayer is the key to open the door to unleash that infinite human potential within our lives.
Prayer is not a feeble consolation; it is a powerful, unyielding conviction.
And prayer must become manifest in action. To put it another way, if our prayers are in earnest, they will definitely give rise to action.
Daisaku Ikeda
Sent from my iPhone
It is the act of impressing in the very depths of our being the conviction that we can change the situation without fail.
Prayers are invisible, but if we pray steadfastly they will definitely affect clear results in our lives and surroundings over time.
This is the principle of the true entity of all phenomena. Faith means having confidence in this invisible realm.
Prayer is the way to destroy all fear. It is the way to banish sorrow, the way to light a torch of hope.
It is the revolution that rewrites the scenario of our destiny.
Prayers are neither light dreams nor vague wishes.They should be firm pledges of determination.
Prayers made with such strong resolve invite clear results just as magnets attract iron.
Prayer entails an intense challenge to believe in oneself and stop diminishing yourself.
To belittle yourself is to disparage Buddhism and the Buddha within your life.
Prayer is an attempt to merge the inner workings of our life with the rhythm of the universe.
When we pray in such a way,
all the workings of the universe will function to protect us and the endless cycle of painful reality
will be transformed into a cycle of victory and happiness.
Prayer is the key to open the door to unleash that infinite human potential within our lives.
Prayer is not a feeble consolation; it is a powerful, unyielding conviction.
And prayer must become manifest in action. To put it another way, if our prayers are in earnest, they will definitely give rise to action.
Daisaku Ikeda
Sent from my iPhone
From Sensei's Thoughts on NHR -- Not begrudging one's life
A Gosho passage: "One day of life is more valuable than all the treasures of the major world system" (WW-1, 231).
Let us do all we can on this precious, irreplaceable day that is today so that we have no regrets, and devote our lives to kosen-rufu and the happiness of humanity! Being ever-victorious means winning resolutely in the present; it means winning today.
Let us do all we can on this precious, irreplaceable day that is today so that we have no regrets, and devote our lives to kosen-rufu and the happiness of humanity! Being ever-victorious means winning resolutely in the present; it means winning today.
From Sensei's Thoughts on NHR -- The spirit of winning in shakubuku / propagation. Prayer.
I wanted to win. I had to win. Winning and then reporting that victory to my mentor was my supreme mission as a disciple; it was also the actual practice of the teaching of the oneness of mentor of disciple.
I chanted sincerely day after day to have the strength to achieve my goal. I chanted continuously with the firm conviction that everyone I came in contact with would become an ally of our movement or would function as a protective force.
I chanted sincerely day after day to have the strength to achieve my goal. I chanted continuously with the firm conviction that everyone I came in contact with would become an ally of our movement or would function as a protective force.
From Sensei's Thoughts on NHR -- Formation of mountain through towering struggle
The first president of the Soka Gakkai, Tsunesaburo Makiguchi, offered this profound guidance: "Although there is a saying that even dust, when it accumulates, can form a mountain, there are in fact no mountains that have been made from accumulated dust. ... Real mountains are formed by sudden, dramatic shifts in the earth's crust."
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Mr Makiguchi strictly teaches us here that we can only fundamentally transform ourselves and build an unshakable state of life by engaging in an earnest struggle of great good against great evil.
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Mr Makiguchi strictly teaches us here that we can only fundamentally transform ourselves and build an unshakable state of life by engaging in an earnest struggle of great good against great evil.
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From Sensei's Thoughts on NHR -- transforming Osaka into a capital overflowing with happiness and goodwill
"We must build Osaka -- a city of honest, industrious people -- into a capital of happiness of the people overflowing with goodwill" -- this was my determination as a young lion of 28 who, from the start of 1956, began to take active leadership in the construction of Ever-victorious Kansai. Together with the Kansai members, I launched a concerted effort -- a struggle of faith and kosen-rufu -- to achieve that goal.
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Whether or not to field a candidate had been an extremely tough choice for the Headquarters. Everyone thought it was a race that could not be won. Both inside and outside the Soka Gakkai, many were saying that it was a rash move and doomed to failure. But I made a firm pledge to my mentor: "No matter what obstacles we may face, I promise you we will win. I will bring you a victory, Sensei!"
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Whether or not to field a candidate had been an extremely tough choice for the Headquarters. Everyone thought it was a race that could not be won. Both inside and outside the Soka Gakkai, many were saying that it was a rash move and doomed to failure. But I made a firm pledge to my mentor: "No matter what obstacles we may face, I promise you we will win. I will bring you a victory, Sensei!"
From Sensei's Thoughts on NHR -- Purpose of Osaka Campaign. Rid Osaka of sickness and poverty. -- mission of living religion
Mr. Toda clearly stated his purpose for going to Osaka, saying: "Let us rid Osaka of all sickness and poverty!" This was a solemn declaration to wipe the tears of unhappiness and suffering from the eyes of the people of Osaka.
To achieve that goal, I would have to dedicate myself earnestly to propagating the Mystic Law and imparting courage to many people from the chains of suffering.
A living religion helps people transform misery into happiness. Religion should not function as a mere source of solace or sympathy, nor as an "opiate" that offers an escape from reality.
As a result of this determination, strong, courageous individuals, who had awakened to a new way of living and found a new social awareness, stood up to work for the reform and betterment of society in which they lived. As citizens, they had every right to construct a humane society, a society that served their needs
To achieve that goal, I would have to dedicate myself earnestly to propagating the Mystic Law and imparting courage to many people from the chains of suffering.
A living religion helps people transform misery into happiness. Religion should not function as a mere source of solace or sympathy, nor as an "opiate" that offers an escape from reality.
As a result of this determination, strong, courageous individuals, who had awakened to a new way of living and found a new social awareness, stood up to work for the reform and betterment of society in which they lived. As citizens, they had every right to construct a humane society, a society that served their needs
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
DECIDE, CHANT , ACT
DECIDE, CHANT , ACT
No matter what's happened up to now, the important thing is to look ahead and resolve to do your best.
Everything starts from now, from this moment, from today. If you keep moving forward cheerfully and steadily, you can learn even from your mistakes and do better next time. By doing your best now, you can make the most of your past experiences and open the door to infinite possibilities. What matters is that you think about what needs to be done now and then give your all to accomplishing it.
Everyone has something they aren't good at and experiences times when they just don't want o do what needs to be done. It may seem easier to put off things we aren't good at or that we don't want to do. But the reality is that the more we delay doing those things, the more they weigh on us and the more difficult they become to do. Putting off what we need to do only causes us to suffer later.
Nichiren Daishonin says:
"Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is like the roar of the lion"(WND-1,412).
Like the roar of the lion, the king of beast, daimoku is the greatest source of strength that nothing can defeat. When you chant daimoku, the lion- like courage and determination to realise your goals will well up inside you. The next step is take action.
Sent from my iPhone
No matter what's happened up to now, the important thing is to look ahead and resolve to do your best.
Everything starts from now, from this moment, from today. If you keep moving forward cheerfully and steadily, you can learn even from your mistakes and do better next time. By doing your best now, you can make the most of your past experiences and open the door to infinite possibilities. What matters is that you think about what needs to be done now and then give your all to accomplishing it.
Everyone has something they aren't good at and experiences times when they just don't want o do what needs to be done. It may seem easier to put off things we aren't good at or that we don't want to do. But the reality is that the more we delay doing those things, the more they weigh on us and the more difficult they become to do. Putting off what we need to do only causes us to suffer later.
Nichiren Daishonin says:
"Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is like the roar of the lion"(WND-1,412).
Like the roar of the lion, the king of beast, daimoku is the greatest source of strength that nothing can defeat. When you chant daimoku, the lion- like courage and determination to realise your goals will well up inside you. The next step is take action.
Sent from my iPhone
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Thursday, November 19, 2015
What's the purpose of life? --- to be happy !
Daily Encouragement
November 20
What is the purpose of life? It is happiness. But there are two kinds of happiness: relative and absolute. Relative happiness comes in a wide variety of forms. The purpose of Buddhism is to attain Buddhahood. In modern terms, this could be explained as realizing absolute happiness--a state of happiness that can never be destroyed or defeated.
Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President
Sent from my iPhone
November 20
What is the purpose of life? It is happiness. But there are two kinds of happiness: relative and absolute. Relative happiness comes in a wide variety of forms. The purpose of Buddhism is to attain Buddhahood. In modern terms, this could be explained as realizing absolute happiness--a state of happiness that can never be destroyed or defeated.
Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President
Sent from my iPhone
NOVEMBER 18: CELEBRATING SOKA GAKKAI FOUNDING DAY
"Today, once again we are commemorating the Soka Gakkai Founding day, which is celebrated every year on Nov 18. November is our founding month. On 18 Nov 1930, our first and second Presidents Tsunesaburo Makiguchi and Josei Toda, established the Soka Gakkai in Tokyo.
Our founding month is a month of creating new history. It is a month in which courageous, self-reliant champions of justice rise into action. Our founding month is not simply a time for reflecting on the past. It is not a page in some dusty old chronicle. Kosen-rufu is a process of endless creativity and forward movement that does not permit even a moment's cessation or stagnation.Our founding month lives on forever in the present, because our victory at each moment, right now contributes to founding an ever-victorious gakkai that will endure for the next 50, next 100 years.
This November, please write an unprecedented page of history in your lives. Please make it a month of rebirth, of breaking out of your shell – a month in which you crash through your self-imposed limitations and bravely set forth with a stand- alone spirit."
Daisaku Ikeda
(Excerpts taken from Kosen-rufu: Our Mission (Eternal Ganges Press, 2015), Vol 2, 55-60
Sent from my iPhone
Our founding month is a month of creating new history. It is a month in which courageous, self-reliant champions of justice rise into action. Our founding month is not simply a time for reflecting on the past. It is not a page in some dusty old chronicle. Kosen-rufu is a process of endless creativity and forward movement that does not permit even a moment's cessation or stagnation.Our founding month lives on forever in the present, because our victory at each moment, right now contributes to founding an ever-victorious gakkai that will endure for the next 50, next 100 years.
This November, please write an unprecedented page of history in your lives. Please make it a month of rebirth, of breaking out of your shell – a month in which you crash through your self-imposed limitations and bravely set forth with a stand- alone spirit."
Daisaku Ikeda
(Excerpts taken from Kosen-rufu: Our Mission (Eternal Ganges Press, 2015), Vol 2, 55-60
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Tuesday, November 17, 2015
HOW CAN WE ENSURE THAT OUR ICHINEN / DETERMINATION IS CHANNELED IN A POSITIVE DIRECTION?
HOW CAN WE ENSURE THAT OUR ICHINEN / DETERMINATION IS CHANNELED IN A POSITIVE DIRECTION?
"When you begin to practice Buddhism, all the infinitesimal angles of inclination—all the ways you relate to the universe—subtly change. You are positioned differently in life. The way you look at things, and the direction in which you stand in relation to things, changes. The ichinen or moment-to-moment determination, which comes bubbling up inside you when you chant, seeks a direction or an object or a goal, just as water seeks its own level. Beginning early in your practice, there are five steps to take to ensure that your ichinen/ determination is channeled in a positive direction:
1) Chant with courage.
2) Make a strong determination or vow.
3) Develop a concrete goal or goals.
4) Offer resolute prayer.
5) Take action until you see clear actual proof.
"In the morning, it is a good idea to chant for the specific goals you want to accomplish that day, as well as the specific causes or actions you want to take in order to achieve those goals. So the day begins with determinations.
"In the evening, you should take stock of how the day went. Report back to yourself on how well you did in terms of making your determinations come true. If some of the goals were not clearly achieved, perhaps only partially realized, then you should re-determine to accomplish them tomorrow. Each morning, make determinations and chant with determination. Each evening, re-determine to do what you need to do. When you do this over and over again, day after day—determining and re-determining to achieve your dreams—you become, in essence, a more determined person!
"When you summon the inner will or ichinen to accomplish an objective, everything about you shifts in the direction of that goal. It is as if the 'differential' of your entire being has been altered or moved a degree or so."
—The Buddha In Your Rearview Mirror; Chapter 3: How to Practice; p. 117-118
Sent from my iPhone
"When you begin to practice Buddhism, all the infinitesimal angles of inclination—all the ways you relate to the universe—subtly change. You are positioned differently in life. The way you look at things, and the direction in which you stand in relation to things, changes. The ichinen or moment-to-moment determination, which comes bubbling up inside you when you chant, seeks a direction or an object or a goal, just as water seeks its own level. Beginning early in your practice, there are five steps to take to ensure that your ichinen/ determination is channeled in a positive direction:
1) Chant with courage.
2) Make a strong determination or vow.
3) Develop a concrete goal or goals.
4) Offer resolute prayer.
5) Take action until you see clear actual proof.
"In the morning, it is a good idea to chant for the specific goals you want to accomplish that day, as well as the specific causes or actions you want to take in order to achieve those goals. So the day begins with determinations.
"In the evening, you should take stock of how the day went. Report back to yourself on how well you did in terms of making your determinations come true. If some of the goals were not clearly achieved, perhaps only partially realized, then you should re-determine to accomplish them tomorrow. Each morning, make determinations and chant with determination. Each evening, re-determine to do what you need to do. When you do this over and over again, day after day—determining and re-determining to achieve your dreams—you become, in essence, a more determined person!
"When you summon the inner will or ichinen to accomplish an objective, everything about you shifts in the direction of that goal. It is as if the 'differential' of your entire being has been altered or moved a degree or so."
—The Buddha In Your Rearview Mirror; Chapter 3: How to Practice; p. 117-118
Sent from my iPhone
Friday, November 13, 2015
Let us be the sun
November 14
There are many people, many lives, on this planet, too numerous, in fact, to count. From this great multitude, we wondrously find ourselves together with those in our families-- as parents and children, as brothers and sisters, as husbands and wives. If we do not live joyfully and cheerfully in the company of those with whom we share this profound bond, what is life for? Should the atmosphere at home be somber, you yourself can be the "sun." By being a shining presence, you can cast the light of hope on your father, mother and whole family.
Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President
每日激励
11月14日
在这个星球上，有许多人，许多生命，数不胜数。从这一大群人，我们惊人地发现自己与我们的家人 －－ 父母和孩子，兄弟姐妹，作为丈夫和妻子 －－ 居住在一起。如果我们不欢天喜地，兴高采烈的和那些与我们分享这个缘分的亲人，什么才是生活？如果家里的气氛是忧郁的，你自己可以像太阳。只要是一个光辉的存在，你可以是 你父亲，母亲和全家人的 希望之光。
池田大作SGI会长
（这是我用"Google translate"翻译，然后修改的。翻译得不好请原谅。）
There are many people, many lives, on this planet, too numerous, in fact, to count. From this great multitude, we wondrously find ourselves together with those in our families-- as parents and children, as brothers and sisters, as husbands and wives. If we do not live joyfully and cheerfully in the company of those with whom we share this profound bond, what is life for? Should the atmosphere at home be somber, you yourself can be the "sun." By being a shining presence, you can cast the light of hope on your father, mother and whole family.
Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President
每日激励
11月14日
在这个星球上，有许多人，许多生命，数不胜数。从这一大群人，我们惊人地发现自己与我们的家人 －－ 父母和孩子，兄弟姐妹，作为丈夫和妻子 －－ 居住在一起。如果我们不欢天喜地，兴高采烈的和那些与我们分享这个缘分的亲人，什么才是生活？如果家里的气氛是忧郁的，你自己可以像太阳。只要是一个光辉的存在，你可以是 你父亲，母亲和全家人的 希望之光。
池田大作SGI会长
（这是我用"Google translate"翻译，然后修改的。翻译得不好请原谅。）
Doing gongyo is a right, not obligation
November 13
Buddhism aims to make people free in the most profound sense; its purpose is not to restrict or constrain. Doing gongyo is a right, not an obligation. Because Buddhism entails practice, tenacious efforts are required, but these are all for your own sake. If you want to have great benefits or to develop a profound state of life, you should exert yourself accordingly.
Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President
Sent from my iPhone
Buddhism aims to make people free in the most profound sense; its purpose is not to restrict or constrain. Doing gongyo is a right, not an obligation. Because Buddhism entails practice, tenacious efforts are required, but these are all for your own sake. If you want to have great benefits or to develop a profound state of life, you should exert yourself accordingly.
Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President
Sent from my iPhone
Be confident of cause and effect. Juz keep doing good
每日指导
11月 12日
在佛法看来，一切都具有意义，没有什么是白费的。因果的法理是绝对的。在佛法的世界里，没有所谓的"投机取巧"，幕后的劳苦必定显现为结果。因此，不管别人能否看见，都应勇敢地行动。
国际创价学会会长池田大作
Sent from my iPhone
11月 12日
在佛法看来，一切都具有意义，没有什么是白费的。因果的法理是绝对的。在佛法的世界里，没有所谓的"投机取巧"，幕后的劳苦必定显现为结果。因此，不管别人能否看见，都应勇敢地行动。
国际创价学会会长池田大作
Sent from my iPhone
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Fwd: The Flowering of Creative Life Force
Sent from my iPad(Air)
Begin forwarded message:
From: Leslie Chang <lesliecck@gmail.com>
Date: 12 November 2015 at 12:25:06 AM SGT
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Subject: Fwd: The Flowering of Creative Life Force
"....For opening the door to your own life is in the end more difficult than opening the door to all the mysteries of the universe....."
"...... The struggle to create new life from within is a truly wonderful thing. There is found the brilliant wisdom that guides and directs the workings of reason; the light of insight that penetrates the farthest reaches of the universe; the undaunted will to see justice done that meets and challenges all the assaults of evil; the spirit of unbounded care that embraces all who suffer. When these are fused with that energy of compassion that pours forth from the deepest sources of cosmic life, an ecstatic rhythm arises to color the lives of all people......."
The Flowering of Creative Life Force
From a speech delivered on April 18, 1974, at the Soka University entrance ceremony.
Today, I would like to discuss what I refer to as "creative life"--the creative impulse and capacities that are inherent in life itself.
I don't intend to enter into a difficult philosophical disquisition or try to offer universally applicable definitions. Rather, very simply, I would urge you, as you travel along the long and precious road of life, never to become gloomy travelers who are shadowed by a sense of failure or defeat. To this end, and in the hope your futures will be filled with honor and glory, I would like to share with you something from my own experience.
The times when I have most intensely felt and experienced the inner reality of creation have been those times when I have thrown myself wholeheartedly into a task, when I have carried through with that task to the very end. At such times, I experience a dramatically expanded sense of self. I can almost hear the joyous yell of victory issuing from the depths of my being.
This sense of fulfillment and joy is the crystallization of all the effort--each drop of sweat, each tear--expended to reach that moment. Life's inherent creativity, its dynamic vitality, is brought to the surface only through the strenuous exertions of a life of consistent action.
Such a way of life will meet with storms and heavy rains, times of seeming defeat. But the creative essence of life is never crushed or vanquished by such things. It is sustained by knowledge of the brilliant rainbow whose bright arch will eventually stretch across the inner expanse of your being.
Indulgence and indolence produce nothing creative. Complaints and evasions reflect a cowardly spirit; they corrupt and undermine life's natural creative thrust. When life is denuded of the will to struggle creatively, it sinks into a state of hellish destructiveness directed at all that lives.
Never for an instant forget the effort to renew your life, to build yourself anew. Creativity means to push open the heavy, groaning doorway of life itself. This is not an easy task. Indeed, it may be the most severely challenging struggle there is. For opening the door to your own life is in the end more difficult than opening the door to all the mysteries of the universe.related article
Bringing Hope Into Focusby Dan McKinney
But to do so is to vindicate your existence as human beings. Even more, it is the mode of existence that is authentically attuned to the innermost truths of life itself; it makes us worthy of the gift of life.
There is no way of life more desolate or more pitiful than one of ignorance of the fundamental joy that issues from the struggle to generate and regenerate one's own life from within. To be human is much more than the mere biological facts of standing erect and exercising reason and intelligence. The full and genuine meaning of our humanity is found in tapping the creative fonts of life itself.
The struggle to create new life from within is a truly wonderful thing. There is found the brilliant wisdom that guides and directs the workings of reason; the light of insight that penetrates the farthest reaches of the universe; the undaunted will to see justice done that meets and challenges all the assaults of evil; the spirit of unbounded care that embraces all who suffer. When these are fused with that energy of compassion that pours forth from the deepest sources of cosmic life, an ecstatic rhythm arises to color the lives of all people.
As you meet various trials and difficulties, thus polishing all the many facets of the jewel which is life, you will learn to walk that supreme pathway of humanity. Of this, I am confident, and I am confident too that those who embrace life's native creativity now stand and will continue to stand in the vanguard of history. Bringing the creativity of life to its fullest flowering is the work of human revolution. Carrying out this kind of human revolution is your mission now as it will be throughout your lives.
--SGI President Daisaku Ikeda
Excerpted from To the Youthful Pioneers of Soka (Soka University Student Union, 2006)
--Best Regards,
Have a nice day.
Leslie Chang
Monday, November 9, 2015
Guidance on how you can strongly deepen your Faith and bring forth many Immeasurable Benefits
⭐️⭐️Guidance on how you can strongly deepen your Faith and bring forth many Immeasurable Benefits⭐️⭐️
You should chant as if you are with your boyfriend or girlfriend, because you really seek that person, you really want to be with them. When you chant with that kind of emotion, that attitude, you get a much stronger effect. That is what is meant by the phrase 'yearning to see the Buddha'. When you chant to the Gohonzon, do it so you'll be able to bring forth that profound state of life from within you. Let each daimoku you are chanting circulate throughout your entire body, even through your bones and bone marrow.
You should chant in the same manner in which you wash your face, in other words wash it as clean as possible. When you chant Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo, it is just like cleansing yourself, cleansing every single part of your body.
When you chant, it's just like a fire engine trying to extinguish whatever problems you are suffering or encountering. Faith is like water, right? When you are really chanting and happy many fire engines will come, but when you are just chanting along, not really happy, only one will show up.
In the Gosho it states that we are children of the Buddha. It states that our bodies are equivalent to Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo. Our head is Myo, throat ho, chest Ren, stomach ge, hands and feet Kyo. The most essential thing is to understand that our bodies are actually the environment of Myoho-Renge-Kyo, and contain its power. So by circulating Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo throughout your body, you will be able to overcome any problem you have within your body.
You should chant to the Gohonzon to be able to accumulate good fortune and overcome problems for the sake of kosen-rufu. You should chant that you become a very fortunate person because you would like to dedicate yourself to the cause of kosen-rufu. When you do that, you will see that the Gohonzon answers your prayers.
If you just try to force yourself to chant when you don't really feel like chanting, you are the loser. You lose the many benfits you can receive when you chant with joy. If you chant as though the Gohonzon were God, and you ask it for something, you will not get as much benefit as you can. You have to remember that you are actually the Gohonzon. The Gohonzon's wisdom is immense, boundless, and immeasurable but through our practice, we are able to receive the immense benefit which is embodied in the Gohonzon.
People throughout the world began to use electricity through the invention of the light bulb. In the same way, through the introduction of the law of Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo on this earth, we are trying to propagate this law throughout the world in order to achieve and realize world peace while avoiding the use of nuclear and biological weapons. This is our mission. This is the mission that every member has throughout the world, to try to propagate Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism so that we can see, in every nation, the end of war.
The first step is to bring forth Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo in our lives by chanting and circulating Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo in our bodies, so that it cleanses us right down to our blood. By doing so, we can develop strong faith- in other words, make nuclear explosions of faith within us. It is not enough to have small explosions happening in a large number of people. What is important is to have large explosions happening in even a handful of people. We need a corps of people with unshakeable faith. I hope you strongly deepen your faith and receive as many benefits as possible and advance toward kosen-rufu in your countries.
Excerpts - Paraphrased from a guidance given by Soka Gakkai Vice-President Takehisa Tsuji.
Sent from my iPhone
You should chant as if you are with your boyfriend or girlfriend, because you really seek that person, you really want to be with them. When you chant with that kind of emotion, that attitude, you get a much stronger effect. That is what is meant by the phrase 'yearning to see the Buddha'. When you chant to the Gohonzon, do it so you'll be able to bring forth that profound state of life from within you. Let each daimoku you are chanting circulate throughout your entire body, even through your bones and bone marrow.
You should chant in the same manner in which you wash your face, in other words wash it as clean as possible. When you chant Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo, it is just like cleansing yourself, cleansing every single part of your body.
When you chant, it's just like a fire engine trying to extinguish whatever problems you are suffering or encountering. Faith is like water, right? When you are really chanting and happy many fire engines will come, but when you are just chanting along, not really happy, only one will show up.
In the Gosho it states that we are children of the Buddha. It states that our bodies are equivalent to Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo. Our head is Myo, throat ho, chest Ren, stomach ge, hands and feet Kyo. The most essential thing is to understand that our bodies are actually the environment of Myoho-Renge-Kyo, and contain its power. So by circulating Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo throughout your body, you will be able to overcome any problem you have within your body.
You should chant to the Gohonzon to be able to accumulate good fortune and overcome problems for the sake of kosen-rufu. You should chant that you become a very fortunate person because you would like to dedicate yourself to the cause of kosen-rufu. When you do that, you will see that the Gohonzon answers your prayers.
If you just try to force yourself to chant when you don't really feel like chanting, you are the loser. You lose the many benfits you can receive when you chant with joy. If you chant as though the Gohonzon were God, and you ask it for something, you will not get as much benefit as you can. You have to remember that you are actually the Gohonzon. The Gohonzon's wisdom is immense, boundless, and immeasurable but through our practice, we are able to receive the immense benefit which is embodied in the Gohonzon.
People throughout the world began to use electricity through the invention of the light bulb. In the same way, through the introduction of the law of Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo on this earth, we are trying to propagate this law throughout the world in order to achieve and realize world peace while avoiding the use of nuclear and biological weapons. This is our mission. This is the mission that every member has throughout the world, to try to propagate Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism so that we can see, in every nation, the end of war.
The first step is to bring forth Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo in our lives by chanting and circulating Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo in our bodies, so that it cleanses us right down to our blood. By doing so, we can develop strong faith- in other words, make nuclear explosions of faith within us. It is not enough to have small explosions happening in a large number of people. What is important is to have large explosions happening in even a handful of people. We need a corps of people with unshakeable faith. I hope you strongly deepen your faith and receive as many benefits as possible and advance toward kosen-rufu in your countries.
Excerpts - Paraphrased from a guidance given by Soka Gakkai Vice-President Takehisa Tsuji.
Sent from my iPhone
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Achieving Buddhahood
Nichiren Buddhism enables those experiencing the greatest suffering to gain the greatest happiness. The Mystic Law has the power to change hell into the Land of Tranquil Light.
To b a "Buddha in life" means to bring forth our innate Buddhahood based on this awareness and to stand up valiantly on the stage of our mission in the midst of life's painful realities to work for our happiness and that of others.
To b a "Buddha in death" means to enter the eternal path of boundless joy of the Law after having to complete our mission in this lifetime and to embark on our next journey on the bodhisattva path to continue fulfilling our vow to lead others to enlightenment.
The purpose for this present existence is to attain the lofty spiritual state in which we truly sense we are Buddhas in both life and death and that both life and death are pervaded by joy. Or rather, each moment of this existence is a struggle to achieve this state of life.
- The Hope Filled Teachings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sent from my iPhone
To b a "Buddha in life" means to bring forth our innate Buddhahood based on this awareness and to stand up valiantly on the stage of our mission in the midst of life's painful realities to work for our happiness and that of others.
To b a "Buddha in death" means to enter the eternal path of boundless joy of the Law after having to complete our mission in this lifetime and to embark on our next journey on the bodhisattva path to continue fulfilling our vow to lead others to enlightenment.
The purpose for this present existence is to attain the lofty spiritual state in which we truly sense we are Buddhas in both life and death and that both life and death are pervaded by joy. Or rather, each moment of this existence is a struggle to achieve this state of life.
- The Hope Filled Teachings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sent from my iPhone
self-mastery
Like the ocean that remains calm in its depths even when waves rage over its surface, and like the sun that continues shining on high even during storms, we can at each moment create value and develop our state of life, enjoying our existence to the fullest in times of both suffering and joy.
Daisaku Ikeda, Ikedaquotes.org Self-Mastery
Sent from my iPhone
Daisaku Ikeda, Ikedaquotes.org Self-Mastery
Sent from my iPhone
Saturday, October 31, 2015
PERSONALITY DOESN'T DETERMINE HAPPINESS
Q U E S T I O N
IGETA: There are different types of personalities: extroverted and introverted, levelheaded and hotheaded, fickle and persistent. Is it impossible to change our personality?
KIMURA: One student came to me upset, saying: "My mom told me that I inherited my father's unattractive qualities. What can I do to change?"
A N S W E R
IKEDA: Buddhism views a person's innate personality or nature as essentially unchanging.
People's personalities are truly diverse. In Buddhism, the word society also has the meaning of "difference" or "distinction". In other words, society constitutes a gathering of people who each possess unique, distinct personalities.
In the multitude of personalities, we see the Buddhist principle of cherry, plum, peach and damson blossoms at work. Just as each blossom is beautiful in its own way, each person is endowed with special qualities.
Being introverted doesn't make someone incapable, just as being quick-tempered doesn't make a person useless. We should live in a way that is true to ourselves. That is the fundamental aim of Buddhism.
Once, when encouraging a member who had begun practicing Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism to change his angry nature, Mr. Josei Toda said: "You don't have to worry about changing your personality. All you have to do is chant daimoku and live the best you can. Then, very naturally, you will see the negative aspects of your personality disappear, leaving you with the positive ones. You must have a clear purpose and work for the betterment of society." The member ended up being loved and admired by everyone and living a truly happy, fulfilling life.
Selection Source: SGI Monthly Photo Magazine, May 2005, Discussions on Youth - "Personality Doesn't Determine Happiness".
Sent from my iPhone
IGETA: There are different types of personalities: extroverted and introverted, levelheaded and hotheaded, fickle and persistent. Is it impossible to change our personality?
KIMURA: One student came to me upset, saying: "My mom told me that I inherited my father's unattractive qualities. What can I do to change?"
A N S W E R
IKEDA: Buddhism views a person's innate personality or nature as essentially unchanging.
People's personalities are truly diverse. In Buddhism, the word society also has the meaning of "difference" or "distinction". In other words, society constitutes a gathering of people who each possess unique, distinct personalities.
In the multitude of personalities, we see the Buddhist principle of cherry, plum, peach and damson blossoms at work. Just as each blossom is beautiful in its own way, each person is endowed with special qualities.
Being introverted doesn't make someone incapable, just as being quick-tempered doesn't make a person useless. We should live in a way that is true to ourselves. That is the fundamental aim of Buddhism.
Once, when encouraging a member who had begun practicing Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism to change his angry nature, Mr. Josei Toda said: "You don't have to worry about changing your personality. All you have to do is chant daimoku and live the best you can. Then, very naturally, you will see the negative aspects of your personality disappear, leaving you with the positive ones. You must have a clear purpose and work for the betterment of society." The member ended up being loved and admired by everyone and living a truly happy, fulfilling life.
Selection Source: SGI Monthly Photo Magazine, May 2005, Discussions on Youth - "Personality Doesn't Determine Happiness".
Sent from my iPhone
Thursday, October 29, 2015
Freedom to run away from problem or face it squarely
QUESTION: When I face problems, running away sometimes seems like the easiest solution. Any advice?
Daisaku Ikeda: You can run away, of course. That freedom exists. But it is a very small, petty freedom. It only leads to a life of great hardship, a life in which you will be powerless, weak and completely frustrated.
Alongside this small freedom, however, exists a much greater freedom. The Japanese novelist Eiji Yoshikawa writes, "Great character is forged through hardship." Only by polishing yourself through repeated difficulties can you build a self that sparkles as brightly as a gem. When you have developed such a state of being, nothing will faze you. You will be free. You will be victorious. Hardships will even become enjoyable. Daring to take on tough challenges - that in itself is immense freedom.
Freedom is relative. You may run away from hard work and effort, declaring yourself a free spirit, but you cannot run away from yourself - from your own weaknesses, personality and destiny. It is like trying to run from your own shadow. It is even more impossible to escape from the sufferings of aging, sickness and death inherent in the human condition. The more you try to avoid hardships, the more doggedly they pursue you, like so many relentless hounds chasing at your heels. That's why it's important that you turn and face your troubles head-on. It is impossible to have absolutely everything go your way all the time. In fact, if it weren't for the various obstacles life presents us with, we probably wouldn't appreciate what it is to be free.
The springtime of our youth is meant to be lived with our faces turned toward the sun. As a season of growth, youth is a time of both great joy and great suffering. It is filled with problems and worries of all kinds. But rather than run away from them, the key is to keep seeking the sun, to keep moving in the direction of the sunlight, to challenge the pain and agony that are a part of growing up.
Never give in to defeat. For a seed to sprout, it must exert tremendous effort to break out of its hard outer covering. That sprout must then valiantly push its way up through a thick layer of soil to reach the blue sky above. The hardships you experience now will all contribute to your growth. Therefore, the important thing is to keep pressing forward no matter how tough or painful the going may get.
Youth is the time to develop a spirit of persistence. And those who keep striving for improvement remain youthful no matter what there age. Conversely, those who fail to do so, even if they are young in years, will be old and weak in spirit.
Life is a battle to win ultimate and unlimited freedom.
Daisaku Ikeda
(Excerpted from The Way of Youth)
Sent from my iPhone
Daisaku Ikeda: You can run away, of course. That freedom exists. But it is a very small, petty freedom. It only leads to a life of great hardship, a life in which you will be powerless, weak and completely frustrated.
Alongside this small freedom, however, exists a much greater freedom. The Japanese novelist Eiji Yoshikawa writes, "Great character is forged through hardship." Only by polishing yourself through repeated difficulties can you build a self that sparkles as brightly as a gem. When you have developed such a state of being, nothing will faze you. You will be free. You will be victorious. Hardships will even become enjoyable. Daring to take on tough challenges - that in itself is immense freedom.
Freedom is relative. You may run away from hard work and effort, declaring yourself a free spirit, but you cannot run away from yourself - from your own weaknesses, personality and destiny. It is like trying to run from your own shadow. It is even more impossible to escape from the sufferings of aging, sickness and death inherent in the human condition. The more you try to avoid hardships, the more doggedly they pursue you, like so many relentless hounds chasing at your heels. That's why it's important that you turn and face your troubles head-on. It is impossible to have absolutely everything go your way all the time. In fact, if it weren't for the various obstacles life presents us with, we probably wouldn't appreciate what it is to be free.
The springtime of our youth is meant to be lived with our faces turned toward the sun. As a season of growth, youth is a time of both great joy and great suffering. It is filled with problems and worries of all kinds. But rather than run away from them, the key is to keep seeking the sun, to keep moving in the direction of the sunlight, to challenge the pain and agony that are a part of growing up.
Never give in to defeat. For a seed to sprout, it must exert tremendous effort to break out of its hard outer covering. That sprout must then valiantly push its way up through a thick layer of soil to reach the blue sky above. The hardships you experience now will all contribute to your growth. Therefore, the important thing is to keep pressing forward no matter how tough or painful the going may get.
Youth is the time to develop a spirit of persistence. And those who keep striving for improvement remain youthful no matter what there age. Conversely, those who fail to do so, even if they are young in years, will be old and weak in spirit.
Life is a battle to win ultimate and unlimited freedom.
Daisaku Ikeda
(Excerpted from The Way of Youth)
Sent from my iPhone
Wee Kim Wee Centre Proudly Presents The First Annual Ikeda Peace and Harmony Lecture by His Excellency Professor Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai on "The Continuing Challenges to Peace"
Attention all Soka Educators
I had forwarded the email from Angie containing the details of the Annual Ikeda Peace and Harmony Lecture (AIPHL). You are strongly encourage to register by clicking on the "REGISTER HERE" link below.
___________
On 23 Oct 2015 20:58, "Benjamin Lim Jih Yang" <jihyang@ssabuddhist.org> wrote:Dear all, good evening!SSA is supporting Singapore Management University's Wee Kim Wee Centre in organising The Annual Ikeda Peace and Harmony Lecture series.Below please find the official Emailer for the inaugural lecture of the series.General Director Mr Tay hopes to extend the e-invitation to the follow group of individuals for the event:(1) All chapter and above youth leaders(2) All Student Division members and ICs(3) All Future Division ICs(4) All Soka Educators Group members
- Kindly note that registration is on a first-come-first-serve basis.
- Interested participants can follow the link in the Emailer, titled "REGISTER HERE", to make their registration.
- Kindly also indicate that you are from SSA when you register online.
- Please be advised that as the auditorium's capacity is limited, we appreciate that interested participants who register for the event be committed to attending it.
We look forward to your warmest support in making this inaugural event in honour of SGI President Ikeda a great success!With very best wishes,Benjamin Lim Jih YangOrganisation Secretariat (Youth Development)| Singapore Soka Association | 10 Tampines Street 81, Singapore 529014 | Tel (65) 6787 3255 | Fax (65) 6787 3281 | DID 6513 7831 | HP 9368 5911 | Email jihyang@ssabuddhist.org | Website www.ssabuddhist.orgSave a tree, don't print unless necessary
His Excellency Professor Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai
Former Deputy Prime Minister
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand
Date6 November 2015 ( Friday )
Time
5.30pm - 7.00pm
Venue
Mochtar Riady Auditorium
SMU, Administration Building
81 Victoria Street Level 5
Singapore 188065
Location map
Click HERE for map
Programme
5.00pm
Registration and Networking
5.30pm
Welcome Address by
Professor Arnoud De Meyer, President, SMU
5.40pm
Introduction and Opening Remarks by
Mr Ho Kwon Ping, Chairman, SMU, Board of Trustees
5.50pm
Lecture by
His Excellency Professor Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai Former Deputy Prime Minister and Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand
6.30pm
Q & A Session, Moderated by Mr Ho Kwon Ping
7.00pm
End of Event
To sign up for this event, kindly Register online.
© Copyright 2015 by Singapore Management University. All Rights Reserved.
--Regards,Angelina TaySenior ManagerEducation Programme* Singapore Soka Association * 10 Tampines Street 81, Singapore 529014 * TEL (65) 6787 3255 * FAX (65) 6787 3281 * DID 6513 8402 * HP 9816 7416 * EMAIL angelinatay@ssabuddhist.org
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Fwd: Topic on death
Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:
From: Leslie Chang <lesliecck@gmail.com>
Date: 27 October 2015 at 10:48:38 PM SGT
To: undisclosed-recipients:;
Subject: Fwd: Topic on death
By acquaintance, BJ Miller( for people dying from cancer...though Soka has its own perspective, this subject about facing death can be brooched in ways which are less intrusive, as in cases I observed. The dying and related family are the ones who faced the most stress and their feeling should never be minimised nor pressured into acceptance of anyone's perspective, even of Buddhism, I feel.)
EXPLORE IDEAS WORTH SPREADING
10/22/2015
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A GOOD DEATH
Wise words and solid advice from BJ Miller, who thinks deeply about the end of life as head of the Zen Hospice Project.
Death is an uncomfortable topic. Although we're well-acquainted with platitudes that remind us to seize the moment and live each day like it's our last, few of us devote real time to envisioning the end of our lives — or the lives of those we love. In contrast, this is a focal point for BJ Miller, palliative care physician and executive director of theZen Hospice Project, a San Francisco-based nonprofit that's focused on improving our experience of death. His TED Talk, What really matters at the end of life, prompted such an outpouring of response that we hosted a Q&A on Facebook to hold a larger conversation about end-of-life care, dying with dignity and providing support for patients and families. Here are just some of the questions — and Miller's answers.
Based on your experiences, what do you find that most people really want at the end of life? – Emilie S.
In general, people yearn for comfort, for their loved ones to be well cared for, to be unburdened and unburdening, to find some sense of closure and peace. But those are generalities and I would encourage all of us to remember that dying people are living and to treat them accordingly. There is so much room for personal preference.What are good ways to talk to kids about death? – Michelle Q.
It's important to remember that kids are not just miniature adults. This big topic, like others, needs to be couched in their developmental stage. In general, it's helpful to avoid euphemisms or overly indirect language. Kids are generally much straighter shooters than we adults. There is a field called Child Life Services that has a lot to say about this subject and can be a great resource.BE GOOD TO YOURSELF AND DON'T LOSE YOURSELF IN THE ROLE OF CAREGIVER.
People often say they don't like hospitals; that mental block keeps them from spending time with someone they care about at the moment they need it most. What advice do you have for people who have a loved one in a hospital? How can each of us make that space kinder and better for the senses? – Kate T.
Little things go a long way. Bringing in photographs, familiar objects, flowers are, in my book, always wonderful. Of course, you can always bring in fresh baked cookies — even if your loved one can't eat, engaging the senses can be potent. Those are some ideas around the external space. Of course, it's always helpful to cultivate internal spaciousness by being a source of calm.Death is a hard subject to talk about. How do we talk about this with our families so we can plan? – Danny K.
Several US-based organizations come to mind, including the Conversation Projectand the Coalition for Compassionate Care of California. Another tool that people seem to love is the card game, My Gift of Grace. At Zen Hospice Project we also proudly host "death cafes" as a social engagement, and also offer a mindful caregiving program for anyone involved in facing the challenge at end of life or anyone interested in exploring more about this topic.How does a non-clinical person learn how to care for others at the end of life? It seems like many of us will be in that position. – Don D.
This is exactly why we created theMindful Caregiving education program at Zen Hospice Project. Estimates are that nearly one third of American adults will either need to receive or provide care to a loved one. We realize there are very few resources to support family caregivers and "informal caregivers" and that the work can be grueling. Zen Hospice Project's educational curriculum is uniquely designed to enhance and support the wellbeing of both the patient and the caregiver. The program's balance of social, medical and spiritual practices enables formal and informal caregivers, doctors, nurses and administrators to experience compassion and resiliency at the bedside while reducing burnout and enhancing care.THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN DO IS TO NAME YOUR PROXY.
Do you have any advice for caregivers about how they can take care of their own mental health? – Ella C.
We know from studies what works. There are two major themes for self care: one is some reflective practice, whether yoga or meditation or walking in the woods; the other is some sharing, talking, processing with people you know and trust. Especially with people who do similar work. Beyond those two major points, I would add to be good to yourself and don't lose yourself in the role.What do you think about end of life dialogue being considered as aphysician-reimbursed service in the United States? Given your experience, what do you think are the most important pieces of the conversation? How could physicians be better equipped to have this conversation? How could mindfulness training inform this service? – Liz M.
I'm very excited about this new legislation, both practically and symbolically. The key points are to have an open and ongoing conversation with your physician as well as your family or proxies. In fact, I think the single most important thing you can do is to name your proxy, because the situation needs to be read in real time. Remember this is not a single conversation but one that requires updates over time. Training clinicians to have this conversation is another matter and requires time: I recommend reading Atul Gawande's book, Being Mortal, as a great resource. Insofar as mindfulness allows us to be more present in difficult situations, it can help set the stage for a more fruitful conversation.Do palliative health centres offer psychological or other support for families after a loved one has passed? – Kasia S.
All certified hospice agencies are required to offer bereavement services to their communities. Admittedly, these services are poorly funded and generally underdeveloped. There is so much more work to be done helping families process what's just happened and also to protect the new tenderness they may feel as they head back into the world. On an individual basis, many psychotherapists specialize in grief counseling and can be wonderful resources. On our way to developing more formal programs, we happily receive family members long after the death of their loved ones to revisit the house and the Zen Hospice community.Can you offer resources for education material, guides for conversations and so on in languages other than English? – Julien G.
A great place to start would be to reach out to your local hospice or palliative care organization. You may also check with theNational Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, the Center to Advance Palliative Care or the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. You are pointing to a real need for cross-cultural understanding on the subject.Editor's note: both questions and answers were lightly edited for clarity. Illustration by Maya Sariahmed/TED.
ALSO OF INTEREST
WHAT DOCTORS DON'T LEARN ABOUT DEATH AND DYING
In "Book excerpt"
THE SCIENCE THAT HELPS VEGETATIVE PATIENTS COMMUNICATE WITH LOVED ONES
In "Bold science"
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CATEGORY
TAGS
BJ Miller, death, dying, end-of-life, hospice,palliative care, TED Talks, Zen Hospice Project
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--Best Regards,
Have a nice day.
Leslie Chang
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