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
