I hope that, basing yourself on faith, you will become wealthy people of virtue and influence who are widely respected. I would like to add, however, that worldly success is not equivalent to true happiness. Achieving this requires that we have a profound understanding of the nature of life. A person of success in the true sense is one who can enjoy a free and unrestrained state of life.
We are who we are. Our life is our own. It is important that we discard a cowardly animalistic way of life - where we are always worried about what others say or do or about how we might appear to others - and instead live with confidence and conviction.
GOSHO PASSAGE
Life is the foremost of all treasures. It is expounded that even the treasures of the entire major world system cannot equal the value of one's body and life.
(WND 1125) The Gift of Rice
Recipient and date unknown
BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE
Buddhism is a movement emphasizing self-education with the aim of unlocking and developing our inherent Buddha nature while at the same time bringing forth diverse wisdom and using various expedient means to help others tap their Buddhahood. This development of potential, this education of oneself and others, is the noblest path a human being can ever pursue.
A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Tuesday, February 9 (1960) Clear
Left Kanazawa for home.
Spoke with my friends on the train, rested and read. In my mind's eye I could see the beautiful sight of Zhu-ge Kong-ming serving Liubei. Wept alone.
Must read books this year as well, at least fifty or sixty.
My wife came alone to the station to greet me. Her gentle face eased this young revolutionary's tension.
On our way home, ate tempura together. It was expensive. My wife explained why. Astonished by the brilliant intelligence of women.
The time is past 1:30. Decided to go to bed.
Must take care of my health. Will exercise this year.
