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
