Fwd: President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement December 1, 2011

Subject: FW: President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement December 1, 2011

 

 

The main thing is to be proud of the work you do, to live true to yourself. Activity is another name for happiness. What's important is that you give free, unfettered play to your unique talents, that you live with the full radiance of your being. This is what it means to be truly alive.

Youth who lose their courage can no longer be called youth. Youth are the ultimate champions of courage and peace. To be young in itself is to be a noble champion who possesses boundless treasure and hope. I would like all of you to speak out with such conviction and power that others will be moved and inspired.

GOSHO PASSAGE

I vowed to summon up a powerful and unconquerable desire for the salvation of all beings, and never to falter in my efforts.

(WND 240) The Opening of the Eyes
Written to Shijo Kingo in February 1272

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

The main thing is to be proud of the work you do, to live true to yourself. Activity is another name for happiness. What's important is that you give free, unfettered play to your unique talents, that you live with the full radiance of your being. This is what it means to be truly alive

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Sunday, March 20 (1960) Cloudy

   On my way back from Wakayama in the afternoon, met with a professor from Osaka University. For almost two hours, we discussed Y.'s doctoral dissertation and academic career. A rather stubborn professor. Became aware that the feudalistic relationship between a professor and his students, like that of a boss and his underlings, is deeply entrenched in the realm of medicine and other fields of scholarship.
  He is ignorant of religion. Heard he practices some new religion.
  Realizing that to help one person achieve great success requires the support of many people, much time and great patience.
  Spent the night at Y.'s. Spoke with his father about his future.
  Youth division activities in both eastern and western Japan are flourishing. Is it not the passion and power of youth that create the new era?

 

 

Fwd: President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 29, 2011

-- 

Regards,

Mr Chang C.L.

_________________

http://MrChang.com

Sent from CCL's iPhone4

Begin forwarded message:

From: "Leslie Chang" <changchengkwee@yahoo.com.sg>
Date: 1 December, 2011 0:53:05 GMT+08:00
To: "Leslie Chang" <changchengkwee@yahoo.com.sg>
Subject: FW: President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 29, 2011

 

 

Compassion is the very soul of Buddhism. To pray for others, making their problems and anguish our own; to embrace those who are suffering, becoming their greatest ally; to continue giving them our support and encouragement until they become truly happy—it is in such humanistic actions that the Daishonin's Buddhism lives and breathes.

The real world is harsh. The number of envious, prejudiced, cold-hearted and selfish people will no doubt increase. In society you may encounter people you do not like and you may well have to work under bosses you find it hard to get along with. That is why the three qualities of integrity, perseverance and hope are so important. No one is a match for the person who possesses these qualities.

GOSHO PASSAGE

Whether or not your prayer is answered will depend upon your faith; [if it is not,] I will in no way be to blame. When the water is clear, the moon is reflected. When the wind blows, the trees shake. Our minds are like the water. Faith that is weak is like muddy water, while faith that is brave is like clear water. Understand that the trees are like principles, and the wind that shakes them is like the recitation of the sutra.

(WND 1079) Reply to the Lay Nun Nichigon
Written to the lay nun Nichigon on November 29, 1280

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

Do not become subservient. Do not dwell on every tiny setback in the course of pursuing your chosen path. To do so would be foolish. Victory or defeat is determined by our entire lives. Moreover, our final years are the most crucial. What is enviable about the pretentious rich? What is great about conceited celebrities? What is admirable about political leaders who gained their positions of power by treating others with contempt? Dig right where you stand, for there lies a rich wellspring!

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Friday, March 18 (1960) Clear

  Attended a wedding ceremony at Byakuren temple.
  The reality of whether youth are progressing toward their happiness corresponds to the nations' development toward its happiness.
  Wish my seniors would try to study and learn more.
  Those who do not practice the words and ideals of our mentor cannot be called his disciples.
  Read the Daishonin's writing "The Entity of the Mystic Law" by myself at the headquarters.

  In essence, the entity of Myoho-renge-kyo is the physical body that the disciples and followers
  of Nichiren who believe in the Lotus Sutra received from their fathers and mothers at birth.
  Such persons, who honestly discard expedient means, put faith in the Lotus Sutra alone, and
  chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, will transform the three paths of earthly desires, karma, and
  suffering into the three virtues of the Dharma body, wisdom, and emancipation. The threefold
  contemplation and the three truths will immediately become manifest in their minds, and the place
  where they live will become the Land of Eternally Tranquil Light.
                                                                                          (WND, 420)

  Extremely profound. Don't these words express the ultimate truth of Buddhism, the essence of faith, the way to revolutionize our lives and a fundamental guide to daily living?
  My seniors, please become people of true courage. I, too, will become a courageous, yet ordinary man. This is my responsibility to my juniors.

  

 

Fwd: President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 28, 2011

-- 

Regards,

Mr Chang C.L.

_________________

http://MrChang.com

Sent from CCL's iPhone4

Begin forwarded message:

From: "Leslie Chang" <changchengkwee@yahoo.com.sg>
Date: 1 December, 2011 0:53:05 GMT+08:00
To: "Leslie Chang" <changchengkwee@yahoo.com.sg>
Subject: FW: President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 28, 2011

SGI Day of Spiritual Independence 

1991: Nichiren Shoshu excommunicates 12 million SGI members worldwide.

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 doku means 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.

A philosopher once said that a person who would conquer the world must first conquer his own personal sorrows. I am fond of this saying. It is important for you to establish a solid understanding of the world and history. Without this, you cannot succeed on the world stage.

GOSHO PASSAGE

Buddhism spreads according to the time and the people's capacity. Although I may not be worthy of this teaching, I expound it because the time is right.

(WND 861) This is What I Heard
Written to the lay priest Soya Jiro on November 28, 1277

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

Many young women agonize over perceived personality flaws and a lack of self-confidence. Nichiren Buddhism, however, teaches the great path of human revolution that enables each of us to shine in our own unique way. With this philosophy, you can decisively overcome a weak and easily swayed life-state and become a person of strength and purpose. It will allow you to withstand the storms of suffering and build a rock-solid foundation that will support you throughout your entire precious lives.

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Thursday, March 17 (1960) Fair

   Attended a wedding ceremony at Kankiryo temple at 3:00 this afternoon. My junior members' departure toward happiness. May they enjoy great fulfillment together!
   Studied the Six-voume Writings with youth division leaders at the temple. Surprised at their remarkable study progress. Will be watching their future. "Meanings Hidden in the Depths" states:

   The object of devotion functions as an objective reality with which to form a relation. The object with
   which one forms such a relation arouses wisdom, which in turn leads one to action. Therefore, it the
   object with which one forms a relation is not true, neither will one's wisdom or action be true. The
   Great Teacher Miao-lo states: "Although one's inspiration for enlightenment may not be true, if he forms
   a relation with the objective reality of truth, he then will gain much merit and virtue. If the object with 
   which one forms a relation is not true, although his aspiration for enlightenment is free from
   falsehood and delusion, it will not become a seed for his enlightenment."   
  
   Returned tot he headquarters at 6:00.
   Youth division leaders are fighting gallantly day in and day out. How can I alone rest? Now is the time to give my all to protect our main camp.
   Received a report about the Akita area from H. Want to go there as soon as possible to offer encouragement
and guidance.
   The day draws near when we will set sail from Tokyo Bay into the high seas of the Pacific Ocean.
   Must human beings live through the crashing waves of destiny - whatever they may be?

 

Fwd: Daily Guidance Mon 11/28

-- 

Regards,

Mr Chang C.L.

_________________

http://MrChang.com

Sent from CCL's iPhone4

Begin forwarded message:

From: "Leslie Chang" <lesliecck@gmail.com>
Date: 1 December, 2011 0:53:05 GMT+08:00
To: "Leslie Chang" <lesliecck@gmail.com>
Subject: FW: FW: Daily Guidance Mon 11/28

 <http://sokaissues.info/assets/images/issues_img/shohondo_cherry_chop.jpg>


http://sokaissues.info/assets/images/issues_img/shohondo_demolition.jpg

For Today and Tomorrow

Daily Encouragement by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, November 28, 2011

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 doku means 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.


Events


http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/7/8/d/highres_10071085.jpeg
SGI Day of Spiritual Independence

1991: Nichiren Shoshu excommunicates 12 million SGI members worldwide.
<http://mail.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/mesg/tsmileys2/04.gif>







http://s1.hubimg.com/u/1518604_f520.jpg



Buddhism Day by Day

<http://sgi-usa.org/Scripts/printerfriendly.php?>


Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Monday, November 28, 2011

Many young women agonize over perceived personality flaws and a lack of
self-confidence. Nichiren Buddhism, however, teaches the great path of human
revolution that enables each of us to shine in our own unique way. With this
philosophy, you can decisively overcome a weak and easily swayed life-state
and become a person of strength and purpose. It will allow you to withstand
the storms of suffering and build a rock-solid foundation that will support
you throughout your entire precious lives.





http://tvdaidang.org/img2010/kinhtb1.jpg

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, November 28, 2011

Buddhism spreads according to the time and the people's capacity. Although I
may not be worthy of this teaching, I expound it because the time is right.

<http://www.sgilibrary.org/view.php?page=%20861> The Writings of Nichiren
Daishonin, page 861 This is What I Heard Written to the lay priest Soya Jiro
on November 28, 1277

<http://sgi-usa.org/Scripts/printerfriendly.php?>











<http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=5
4261994>




<http://p1.wisestamp.com/pixel.png?p=mozilla&v=3.9.12&t=1322446780286&u=2648
fd9d1371acd5>

 _____

No virus found in this message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 2012.0.1873 / Virus Database: 2101/4643 - Release Date: 11/27/11

Compassion is the very soul of Buddhism

November 29

Compassion is the very soul of Buddhism. To pray for others, making their problems and anguish our own; to embrace those who are suffering, becoming their greatest ally; to continue giving them our support and encouragement until they become truly happy--it is in such humanistic actions that Nichiren Buddhism lives and breathes.

Daisaku Ikeda, SGI President

It is no use to blame the looking glass if your face is awry

President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 22, 2011

There is a Russian proverb that says: "It is no use to blame the looking

glass if your face is awry." Likewise, one's happiness or unhappiness is
entirely the reflection of the balance of good and bad causes accumulated
in one's life. No one can blame others for his misfortunes. In the world of
faith, it is necessary to realize this all the more clearly.

Learning is the individual's inalienable right. As human beings, it is not
only our right but also our duty. Please never lose the desire to continue
learning throughout your lives!

*GOSHO PASSAGE
*

But now you, born a woman in the evil world of the latter age, while being
reviled, struck and persecuted by the barbaric inhabitants of this island
country who are unaware of these things, have endured and are propagating
the Lotus Sutra. The Buddha at Eagle Peak surely perceives that your
surpass the nun [Mahaprajapati] as greatly as clouds do mud. The name of
that nun, the Buddha Gladly Seen by All Living Beings, is no unrelated
matter; it is now the name of the lay nun Myoho.

(WND 1106) Reply to the Lay Nun Myoho
Written to the lay nun Myoho in 1281

*BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE*
Wisdom, not might, is the most important thing. Wisdom and compassion are
deeply connected. Giving earnest thought to others' welfare, asking
ourselves what can we do to help—using our minds in this way is a sign of
compassion.

*A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Tuesday, March 8 (1960) Cloudy, then clear
*
  Stayed at the headquarters all day long.
  Gave guidance to my juniors throughout the evening. Continually praying
for the youth division to produce even one more capable person - my
continuing prayer.
  People, capable people, young capable people. This alone determines the
Gakkai's future.
  Must expand my life and give my all to guiding them.
  Those who criticize, do as you please. Those who are jealous, feel as
you please. Those who laugh, those who ridicule, take a look ten years from
now - at the solitary youth who shoulders the Gakkai.
  The Gakkai leaders, across every part of the organization, must study
more and more. Must make deeper inroads into society.
  Ate with T. with some friends on my way home. The food was really good.
Felt happy.
  Enjoyed a quiet, solitary stroll back home.

Life means making practical efforts... create something as a record of your existence in this world

President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 21, 2011

If you practice faith while doubting its effects, you will get results that are at best unsatisfactory. This is the reflection of your own weak faith on the mirror of the cosmos. On the other hand, when you stand up with strong confidence, you will accrue limitless blessings.

Life is making practical efforts. It is challenging ourselves. It is advancing. Your youth never comes again. Please leave behind some achievement, please create something, as a record of your existence in this world.

GOSHO PASSAGE

There is definitely something extraordinary in the ebb and flow of the tide, the rising and setting of the moon, and the way in which summer, autumn, winter and spring give way to each other. Something uncommon also occurs when an ordinary person attains Buddhahood. At such a time, the three obstacles and four devils will invariably appear, and the wise will rejoice while the foolish will retreat.

(WND 637) The Three Obstacles and Four Devils
Written to Ikegami Hyoe no Sakan Munenaga on November 20, 1277

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

Everyone born in this world has a unique role that only he or she can fulfill. Were this not the case, we would not be here. The universe never acts without cause; everything invariably has a reason for being. Even the weeds people love to loathe serve a purpose.

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Tuesday, March 8 (1960) Cloudy, then clear

   Spring is moving in quickly.
   Spring, spring, like youth, spring is a jewel in life.
   Youth must be noble at heart and energetic in action, transcending ideology, putting aside position, circumstances, poverty and wealth.
   Youth trembling with anxiety as they face an unknown future. Youth of little experience, scared, surprised, hearts racing. Bold youth, recklessly striding forward.
   The Gakkai as well, day by day, enters an important phase.
   Others, unaware of this, seem so nonchalant.
   Wish that I. would set his sights on a higher objective and come to talk with me from that perspective. It puts me at a loss. No matter how much advice one is given, sometimes that person's character never changes.
   A sweet daphne tree my wife planted last year is flowering now. She left a branch of it on my desk. Ah, what a sweet smell these flowers have.

 

 

--
Regards,

Mr Chang C.L.

_________________
http://MrChang.com

Daimoku is therefore the fundamental energy for realizing victory in the struggle for human rights

President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 19, 2011

 

The innate power of humanity is the driving force that breaks down all barriers of discrimination. The ultimate expression of this humanity is Buddhahood; it is the power of the Mystic Law. Daimoku is therefore the fundamental energy for realizing victory in the struggle for human rights.

Please do not spend your youth avoiding hardship and taking the path of least resistance. Please seek out difficult challenges and hard work. And if you are going to take on hardships, let it be for the sake of high ideal. Do no stay closed up in your own tiny shell, pursue your studies with the high ideals of helping your friends and contributing to society and humanity. This is where the true significance of the pursuit of learning lies.

GOSHO PASSAGE

In this age, it is as natural for a woman to change her fixed karma by practicing the Lotus Sutra as it is for rice to ripen in fall or chrysanthemums to bloom in winter. When I prayed for my mother, not only was her illness cured, but her life was prolonged by four years. Now you too have fallen ill, and as a woman, it is all the more timely for you to establish steadfast faith in the Lotus Sutra and see what it will do for you.

(WND 955) On Prolonging One's Life Span
Written to the lay nun Myojo in 1279

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

To be concerned only with one's own happiness is egoism. To claim you care only about the happiness of others is hypocrisy. Genuine happiness is becoming happy together with others. Josei Toda said: "Just becoming happy oneself—there's nothing difficult to that. It's easy. Helping others become happy is the foundation of our faith."

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Friday, March 4 (1960) Cloudy

   Had dinner at Azabu with F. and some others. They remind me of the passage, "To discard the shallow and seek the profound is the way of a person of courage" (WND, 402).
  Intensively discussed Japan's future, world trends and politics.
  Until midnight, talked about our vision for the next ten, twenty, thirty years and preparations to achieve it.
  It seems there are two types, or, more broadly, four types of young people. Those of knowledge, those of effort, those of faith and those of emotion.
  Some are serious but get carried away, and others are quiet but have a strong backbone. There are those who are eloquent but lack backbone, and those who are reticent but have deep faith.
  Returned on a full stomach. Ah, my home. What a quiet, happy home.

 

 

Persistently advance based on the Mystic Law, you will definitely be able to lead a life in which all desires are fulfilled

SGI President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 15, 2011

Please steadily advance along the fundamental path of "faith manifests itself in daily life," living in the way that best suits you. Just as the sun rises every day, if you persistently advance based on the Mystic Law, the absolute Law of the universe, you will definitely be able to lead a life in which all desires are fulfilled, a life that you cannot now even conceive of. Please be convinced that you are now leading the most certain and valuable life.

A revolution in education begins with a revolution in educators themselves. In order to build a better world, it is important for us to realize that unless teachers improve, there will be no improvement in students, and if students do not improve, there will be a dearth of capable leaders in the future. That is why we need to see a dramatic change in the attitude and quality of educators.

GOSHO PASSAGE

The benefit of all the other sutras is uncertain, because they teach that one must first make good causes and only then can one become a Buddha at some later time. With regard to the Lotus Sutra, when one's hand takes it up, that hand immediately attains Buddhahood, and when one's mouth chants it, that mouth is itself a Buddha, as, for example, the moon is reflected in the water the moment it appears from behind the eastern mountains, or as a sound and its echo arise simultaneously.

(WND 1099) Wu-lung and I-lung
Written to the lay nun Ueno on November 15, 1281

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

We are always changing. If you decide passively, "I'm a quiet type now, so I'll just go through life being quiet," then you won't fully realize your unique potential. On the other hand, you can challenge yourself to become someone, who, though quiet and reserved by nature, will nevertheless say what needs to be said at the right moment, clearly and completely, someone who has the courage to speak out and stand up for the truth.

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Monday, February 29 (1960) Cloudy

   February is over. Farewell to the cold winter. Spring will begin from tomorrow. Sense the vibrant energy of life.
   Spring is a season of youth, a song of youth. Let me live with vigor, as a youth, as a genuine youth.
   Heard about the death of H.'s wife tonight a little after midnight. Tried to encourage him. My friend, my comrade, be strong!
   Are these words by Eiji Yoshikawa? "There is no government more foolish than that which flatters the people who are seeking frankness." Do these words suggest what good and fair government is? This is an important issue. Thought this may also apply to the development of truly capable people in general.

 

 

 

If one person is unhappy, then so is the entire family

SGI President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 14, 2011

In a family, if one person is unhappy, then so is the entire family. Therefore, I would like you to sincerely pray for and protect one another so that there are no people who are unfortunate and unhappy, or who abandon their faith, and that every person will become happy. These are the kinds of humanistic bonds among fellow members that give birth to true unity. Coercion or force stemming from power and authority is ineffective at critical moments.

To rise from the depths of sorrow of a beloved person's death and set out to realize his vision with even greater determination and resolve - nothing can compare to the profundity, nobility, and strength of such a life. This is something that my mentor in life, Mr. Josei Toda often solemnly asserted.

GOSHO PASSAGE

When once we chant Myoho-renge-kyo, with just that single sound we summon forth and manifest the Buddha nature of all Buddhas; all existences; all bodhisattvas; all voice-hearers; all the deities such as Brahma, Shakra, and King Yama; the sun and moon, and the myriad stars; the heavenly gods and earthly deities, on down to hell-dwellers, hungry spirits, animals, asuras, human and heavenly beings, and all other living beings. This blessing is immeasurable and boundless.

(WND 887) How Those Initially Aspiring to the Way Can Attain Buddhahood through the Lotus Sutra
Written to the lay nun Myoho in 1277

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

Our voice resonates with life. Because this is so, it can touch the lives of others. The caring and compassion imbued in your voice finds passage to the listener's soul, striking his or her heart and causing it to sing out; the human voice summons something profound from deep within, and can even compel a person into action.

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Sunday, February 28 (1960) Cloudy

   A joint conference was held tonight. We all talked, ate and listened, making preparations for our next battle.
   On my way home, stopped by the barber. My heart is so lonesome. I have few people of strong character with whom I can share my thoughts.
   Spring is near. I love spring. Want to fill my small yard with all kinds of flowers this year.
   The flower show at the Shinjuku Imperial Garden or my home adorned with all kinds of flowers bought from street vendors - which most resembles the artwork in my heart? Which best resembles my dialogue with nature?
   The Land of the Eternally Tranquil Light exists within us for all eternity.
   Will begin reading again in March. How many books can I read?

   The Land of Eternally Tranquil Light: A land where a Buddha lives. One of the 'four kinds of lands,' a classification established
   by the T'ien-t'ai school of the types of lands mentioned in the sutras.

 

BASING MY LIFE ON THE GREATEST ROLE MODE

Experience by Shailendra Pratap Jain (Seattle) Living Buddhism, November, 2011

BASING MY LIFE ON THE GREATEST ROLE MODEL – By applying SGI President Ikeda’s guidance to his life, Shailendra Jain reveals his greater self.

    I was born in India to a family steeped in financial difficulties. As a child, I watched my grandfather die penniless and in debt, and I saw my father spend close to 20 years without a job. I felt the weight of pity from relatives and acquaintances due to our money issues. As a result, when I encountered Nichiren Buddhism as a young man in 1988, I was solely focused on achieving financial success.
    A great benefit I experienced early in my Buddhist practice was being admitted to the marketing Ph.D. program at New York University. I moved to the US in 1990 to pursue my dream of becoming a marketing professor. But, after living in NY City for two years, I became so homesick that I wanted to quit my PH.D. studies and return home. I had kept in contact with a fellow member in India, Shalini, and she encouraged me to come back and support SGI President Ikeda’s visit to India in February 1992. I packed my bags, not intending to return to the US.
    While in India, I attended three meetings and events with President Ikeda. During this time, I wrote him a letter explaining that I wanted to discontinue my Ph.D. program. He wrote back immediately, saying, “I’m praying for the successful completion of your Ph.D.” That message was a defining moment for me, and I decided to return and continue my studies. But I did not leave India empty handed.
    I had known Shalini to be a passionate woman of conviction and wisdom. Before my trip home, I had chanted for six months to know whether she was the right person for me. It turns out, she had been chanting for the same six months about me. Shalini and I were married later that year, and she moved to the US with me.
    After successful completion of my Ph.D. program in 1995, I joined the faculty of the Simon Graduate School of Business, University of Rochester (NY) as an assistant professor of marketing.
    When I began teaching, my focus was on my own performance. The classes were filled with students’ confused or blank faces, frequent yawns and furtive glances at the clock. My first reaction was to make a sweeping judgment about the students.
    During this time, I served as a men’s leader in my local SGI-USA organization and strove for the happiness of my fellow members. One day, I read a poem by President Ikeda about breaking open the shell of our lesser, self-centered selves and revealing our greater, more compassionate selves. I was reminded that President Ikeda always focuses on the happiness of each person. I realized I hadn’t been thinking about the happiness of my students. I decided to shift my focus from my ability as a professor and instead chanted to treasure all my students and help them bring out their best.
    Gradually, things changed. I went from suffering sleepless nights worrying about my performance to cutting back my sleep in order to prepare more for my classes so that I could better stimulate my students. Rather than viewing them as nameless masses, I spent time learning their names and backgrounds of each of my 250 students. Instead of merely doing my job, I now worried about their health, worked to prepare them for job interviews and chanted passionately for their professional success and happiness. And in 1997, I received my first Teaching Excellence Award from the graduating class.
    After all this, in 2000, I learned that my contract at the University of Rochester was being terminated. I was deeply discouraged and even thought about giving up my Nichiren Buddhist practice.
    I sought guidance from a senior in faith and told him that when I chanted Nam-myoho-renge-kyo or studied Buddhism, I felt no joy or inspiration. He encouraged me to continue my daily practice and to keep studying, even if nothing registered.
    Following his guidance, I studied President Ikeda’s and Nichiren Daishonin’s writings regularly and came across Nichiren’s words “But still I am not discouraged” (WND-1, 748). I chanted to engrave these words in my heart.
    As the months wore on, I became increasingly concerned about my finances. I had been sending money home to support my mother in India, and my wife was dependent upon me. On some level, I feared I might find myself in the same situation as my father or grandfather.
    In November 2000, I read an experience in an SGI-USA publication about a woman who had used her Buddhist practice to transform her life from one of running from creditors and almost being jailed to one of tremendous success.
    At once, all of President Ikeda’s and Nichiren’s writings that I had read over the previous six months seemed to penetrate deep within me. With my life itself, I felt Nichiren’s words “But still I am not discouraged.” And I knew with unshakable conviction that I would be victorious.
     I made a determination that by March 16, 2002, I would have seven job offers. I set a challenging chanting goal for myself each day, increased my participation in SGI activities and introduced many people to Nichiren Buddhism. I also applied for jobs like crazy.
    By March 21, 2001, I had received seven job offers and decided to accept a visiting professor position at Cornell University’s Johnson School of Business.
    Even though this job paid better and offered more prestige, I still held a grudge against my former employer and considered myself a victim of wrongdoing.
    Again I received encouragement from a senior in faith, who suggested I chant to feel true appreciation for the University of Rochester for ending my contract. He said that our obstacles and suffering provide us with an amazing opportunity to learn about ourselves, undergo our human revolution and reveal our greatest potential. Therefore, I should appreciate the university for being the catalyst for my growth.
    As I chanted with this mind, I had a moment of clarity. My performance at the University of Rochester had been subpar. Professors have three principle responsibilities: research, teaching and administrative service. My teaching and administrative service had been great, but my research had truly been lacking. I had even asked myself, Why should I do research? Frankly, I just hadn’t believed in its importance.
    It dawned on me that President Ikeda is the foremost researcher about life. It is his intensive research and study of Nichiren’s writings and other wide-ranging subjects, such as literature, science and history that make his life and encouragement so profound. This realization put things into perspective for me. To become a true disciple of President Ikeda, I needed to apply myself to research.
    In 2002, as my wife and I welcomed our beautiful daughter, Naira, into this world, I started a new job at the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, where soon I was routinely researching 16 hours a day. I still found time to drive four hours each way to attend discussion meetings or to visit members.
    Between 1003 and 2002, I had published only three research papers. Since 2002, I’ve published 14 and am currently working on about a dozen more.
    My earnest effort to live out President Ikeda’s model and vision as an educator has generated results far beyond my imagination. I have been honored with two research awards and 12 student-nominated teaching awards. In 2008, I joined the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business as a tenured professor, and in 2009, every one of my students received a summer internship, despite the struggling economy. That same year, I won the PACCAR Award for Excellence in Teaching, one of the highest MBA teaching awards nationwide. In my annual review last year, my department chair rated me the most-valued professor on the faculty, and this year, I was promoted to a full professor.
    When I was at my lowest, I started applying President Ikeda’s guidance to my life. Increasingly, I came to realize why I need a mentor and why he is the greatest mentor I could have eternally. President Ikeda is my role model for how to behave and live – in all areas. I constantly strive to put his encouragement into action, for when I do so, I am always victorious. For that reason, I feel that every victory I have achieved is because of President Ikeda.
    He writes: “’Buddhism is about winning’ is not simply a motto or maxim. It is the very heart and essence of the mentor-disciple relationship in Nichiren Buddhism” (July-Aug 2011 Living Buddhism, 56). I will continue showing actual proof in order to repay the immense debt of gratitude I feel toward President Ikeda.      
    
    

Human revolution -- Empowerment of the people, by the people and for the people

＂我们的SGI的'人间革命运动'，就是要使每个人醒觉到自己无穷的潜力，为人为己，使他们都能参与社会的建设。＂
"Empowerment of the people, by the people and for the people -- individuals taking initiative to realize their infinite potential as they contribute to society -- is the basis for the SGI's movement of human revolution."

Eloquence and sincerity made it possible for Buddhism to gain wide acceptance

President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 7, 2011

Throughout his life, Shakyamuni encouraged people with his clear, sonorous voice. A Buddhist text describes how Shakyamuni warmheartedly welcomed everyone he met, expressing his joy at seeing them. He showed affection, joy and gentleness in all his interactions. He greeted everyone with courtesy and respect. He never scowled or grimaced. And to put others at ease and encourage them to speak up, Shakyamuni would always break the ice by initiating the conversation. It was the power of Shakyamuni's eloquence and sincerity that made it possible for Buddhism to gain wide acceptance among the people of his time.

You cannot build a foundation without effort and hard work, and without a solid foundation, you cannot become a person of genuine substance. Please make no mistake about this. Cunning people who shun hard work and seek to make it big overnight invariably come to fall in the end.

GOSHO PASSAGE

I knew from the outset that, if I set aside my fears and declared things exactly as they are, I would be sentenced to death. And even if I should escape the death penalty, I would surely be condemned to exile. So great is the debt of gratitude I owe the Buddha, however, that I have not let others intimidate me, but have spoken out.

(WND 529) Letter to the Lay Priest Ichinosawa
Written to the wife of the lay priest Ichinosawa on May 8, 1275

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

True ease and comfort are not found in a quiet, uneventful life. This may sound paradoxical, but hardships bring about ease and comfort. For only by establishing strong individual lives capable of boldly challenging difficult obstacles can we find true "peace and security in this lifetime," as the Lotus Sutra says.

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Sunday, February 21 (1960) Fair

   Fair weather continues. Just like spring. Spring is certainly near.
   Arrived in Okayama around 6:00 p.m.
   Inspected a parcel of land for the general chapter's headquarters building.
   Gave a lecture and held a question-and-answer session at a gymnasium.
   The members were very sincere and responsive. Is this a reflection of the character of this area's central figure? A person in charge or who takes a central role can influence in any way millions and tens of millions of people. What an awesome concept.
   Stayed overnight at the general chapter chief's home. Appreciative to him for taking such good care of me.

 

--
Regards,

Mr Chang C.L.

_________________
http://MrChang.com

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

SGI President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 5, 2011

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

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

GOSHO PASSAGE

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

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

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

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

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

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

 

Fwd: President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 2, 2011

 President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement November 2, 2011

 

There are cases when we wonder why merit doesn't reveal itself in spite of our earnest and high degree of faith. At such times, rather than suspecting that you may entertain doubt about the Gohonzon, it is better to ask yourself whether you are guilty of a type of slander. Because a person who is contemptuous, hating, jealous or holds grudges will realize no benefits.

Life is a struggle. Since that is true, let us make it a victorious one! Everything starts from here. This is the spirit of those who from the time of their youth have upheld philosophy and a bright, determined sense of mission. It is the spirit of those who embark on a profound, humanistic struggle for the happiness of their fellow human beings.

GOSHO PASSAGE

You should realize that it is because of a profound karmic relationship from the past that you can teach others even a sentence or phrase of the Lotus Sutra.

(WND 33) A Ship to Cross the Sea of Suffering
Written to Shiji Shiro on April 28, 1261

BUDDHISM DAY BY DAY - WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE

The Lotus Sutra explains that the self is one with the universe. The practice of the Lotus Sutra is the practice of compassion to respect and revere everyone as a treasure tower, and to become happy conjointly with others in accord with the principle of the oneness of self and others, while overcoming the various difficulties we face.

A YOUTHFUL DIARY - Tuesday, February 16 (1960) Clear

   Today is Nichiren Daishonin's birthday.
   Stayed in the headquarters building all morning.
   Talked with directors H. and I., then met with the general director.
   Attended the wedding ceremony of our younger friends at Jozai-ji in the afternoon. Offered some celebratory words to the happy couple. May all our friends, without a single exception, become happy.
   Later, at the reception, sang solo "Song of Majesty."
   The Gakkai's next stage of advancement is close at hand. Who is aware of it? Who is rejoicing about it? Who is waiting for it?