Daily Guidance

1st April 2013

Monday

ONE is not a leader merely because he/she gives orders to many people. A great leader means somebody who works hard behind the scenes and puts others in the limelight.

IN this age of globalisation, neither individuals nor nations can survive in isolation. In as much as we are a part of this world, we will incur obligations to countless other people and nations. Obligation is the manifestation of the spirituality that naturally sustains and lubricates the workings of humanity and society; we may call it the essence of humanity.

YOUR inner state of life is what determines your happiness, not status or wealth. When you cultivate a vast, all-encompassing state of life, you will experience abundant joy. Nichiren Daishonin stated, "Faith alone is what really matters." Your mind of faith is what determines your happiness throughout the three existences of life.

WITHOUT courage, we cannot be compassionate. Courage and compassion are inseparable, like the two sides of a coin. And faith is the well-spring from which courage springs.

PLEASE treat everyone you have a connection with, including your own parents, with utmost respect. I hope you will work to broaden our network of friendship and trust with open and generous hearts. The more you do so, the greater the benefit you will receive, the further kosen-rufu will advance and the more expansive your own state of life will become.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com
Pic: www.nurturingart.com  

Daily Guidance

31st March 2013

Sunday

IT does not matter if we are not gifted speakers. What matters is making consistent efforts to talk to others in a way that is most natural for each of us. It is vital not to remain silent in the face of injustice or wrongdoing, no matter what the other person's status or position. If we chant powerful daimoku and take action, results will definitely appear. The causal law of Buddhism is extremely rigourous. The key point is that we ourselves become strong.

WHAT was Thomas Edison's secret to success? He explained that it was absolutely never to give up before he had succeeded in what he was trying to do. Not giving up - that is the only way. Once you give up, you are defeated. This is equally true in the realm of faith. Quitting is not faith. We have to keep chanting until our prayers are answered. That is the correct way of prayer.

EVERYTHING is in motion. Life is constantly moving. The universe, too, is in motion. To live is to move. Advancement equals life. Stagnation equals death. A top is stable because it spins. Once it stops spinning, it cannot remain upright.

NICHIREN DAISHONIN taught that what counts in Buddhism is whether you win or lose. The same way may be said of human life. To win, you must become strong. If a person is fainthearted, he/she will only be held in contempt. In this evil age of the Latter Day of the Law, if you are weak and lack real capability, you will be defeated. On the other hand, if you summon forth courage and develop ability, you will definitely be able to defeat an arrogant foe.

OVER the long course of your life, you may at times find yourself deadlocked at work, at school or in your daily affairs. However, these are phenomena of daily life and society which lie on a different plane than faith and are not themselves the essence of faith. Therefore, you must never allow yourself to be swayed by such superficial matters and risks losing your faith entirely.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com 
Pic:9images.blogspot.com 

Daily Guidance

30th March 2013

Saturday

NICHIREN Daishonin stated, "Only by defeating a powerful enemy can one prove one’s real strength." This is a truth that applies to all spheres of life. Youth must never be cowards or weak-spirited individuals who are constantly defeated. I would like you to become ever-victorious champions who win one decisive victory after another in all the various "battlefields" of life and society. Winning in life is the purpose of faith; it is also a testimony of the power of faith.
FAITH is just not an abstract idea. It is something you should develop through practice. In order to master faith through action, one must practise as the gosho teaches. Therefore, if one cannot put into action the lessons taught in the gosho, applying them from the standpoint of faith, then one's faith cannot truly be called deep.
IT is vital to have a resilient spirit so that, without complaints or feelings of disaffection, you are able to always look on the bright side of the situation and find it a source of hope and happiness. Such is the wisdom to achieve victory in life. Again, it is faith that enables us to manifest such wisdom. I hope that, viewing all travails with composure, you will lead a life of dignity and happiness.
THE Daishonin's writings and the myriad of Buddhist teachings are all embraced in the ultimate Law of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. Those who do not understand the Daishonin’s writings but have deep faith and strive to spread the Mystic Law are, through their faith and through their actions, "reading" those writings with their lives. Such people would surely be praised by the original Buddha.
ENCOUNTERING a good book is like encountering a great teacher. Reading is a privilege only human beings are endowed with; no other living creature on this planet has the same capacity. Through reading, we are able to come into contacts with hundreds and thousands of lives other than our own, and to commune with sages and philosophers who lived as long as two millennia ago.

Taken From:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com
Pic:youthottawa.ca

Daily Encouragement

29th March 2013

Molly Brown was on board the Titanic when it tragically sunk in 1912. Although she knew the ship was taking on water, she shouted to a panic-stricken fellow passenger: "There's no danger. It simply can't go down, because I'm on it and I'm unsinkable." Her bantering words, which rang out with the determination never to be defeated and never to give in to despair are said to have given courage to her fellow passengers. Those who stand up at a crucial moment demonstrate genuine greatness.





Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

29th March 2013

Friday

IN the realm of faith, there must be absolutely no discrimination on the basis of such things as academic background, titles or social status. The goal of Nichiren Buddhism is achieving kosen-rufu. We should advance in accordance with the instruction of the Daishonin. It is not people who boast high academic credentials or social position who are worthy of the greatest respect, but people who possess sincere faith.

EVERYTHING hinges on strong faith. Those whose faith is strong will be kept safe from harm by the protective forces of the universe. Strong faith means to possess unbeatable resolve, compassion, prudence, courage, wisdom and good fortune.

IN Buddhism, the most frightening thing is the destruction of the mind, the spirit. Such destruction not only ruins one's present life but destroys the jewel of life throughout the three existences of past, present and future.

HAPPINESS means to live with composure, enjoying every aspect of our lives, continually discovering hope and joy. Herein lies the purpose of our faith, as well as the ultimate purpose and ideal of life.

ALTHOUGH some may speak of "benefit" or "punishment", these things are ultimately determined by one's own practice. You know better than anyone whether you are feeling joy or pain, or suffering. No one else can tell you these things. A deep sense of happiness can be nowhere but within your own heart.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com
Pic from:http://www.google.com.my/imgres

Daily Encouragement

28th March 2013

Nichiren wrote that wrath can be either good or bad. Self-centered anger generates evil, but wrath at social injustice becomes the driving force for reform. Strong language that censures and combats a great evil often awakens adverse reactions from society, but this must not intimidate those who believe they are right. A lion is a lion because he roars.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

28th March 2013

Thursday

BEFORE you complain, challenge the walls in front of you. This is the courageous way of fighting for kosen-rufu and the spirit of human revolution.

THE Devil of Sixth Heaven is the devilish function of life that manipulates people's hearts and attempts to dominate their lives as well. All living beings are influenced by the functions of the devil king, and wander about in the state of endless suffering. By what means can we bring this evil cycle to a halt? This is possible only through strong faith in the Gohonzon, which is the Lotus Sutra of Latter Day of the Law.

THE person who does not allow himself/herself to be distracted by little things but continues trying is already living in the dimension of eternity. The lazy person who is defeated by his/her own weakness and desires is already approaching spiritual death.

THOSE who tenaciously persevere in faith will definitely succeed on establishing happy lives. We can transform all our hardships and sufferings into causes for happiness - changing poison into medicine. All of our efforts will become the fuel that propels us towards attaining a state of life in which we enjoy unsurpassed happiness in lifetime after lifetime; they will become joyful memories of our existence in this world.

FAITH equals daily life. Buddhism is manifested in society. Our day-to-day conduct and our steady daily efforts are important. Just believing that everything will be all right as long as we chant daimoku is not the correct attitude of a genuine Buddhist. Buddhism is the law of cause and effect. The benefit of daimoku really comes to shine when we study hard, make efforts, and do our best in all endeavours. And our earnest daimoku is what fuels those actions.


Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/
Pic : www.yourinnerskinny.ca

Daily Guidance

27th March 2013

Wednesday

IT is absolutely forbidden for any SGI leaders to borrow money from or lend money to fellow members. Problems arising from such loans can result not only in trouble and grief for the parties involved, but in distrust and confusion spreading throughout the organisation. I state once again that what matters most is not money, fame or position, but one's heart.

IT is beneficial to study the doctrines of Buddhism. The more we study them, the more it reinforces our understanding and deepens our appreciation of the excellence and profundity of Buddhism, which in turn serves to strengthen our faith and conviction. The fundamental purpose of our Buddhist study is to fortify the power of our faith and practice.

"TRY" is a little word, but big things - victory and glory - can be found within it. The sight of someone trying, no matter what obstacles one faces, no matter what the circumstances are, is the sight of victory itself.

PRAYERS offered based on the Mystic Law for the repose of a deceased parent constitute the highest form of filial piety. The Daishonin stated that one who carries out such filial actions will definitely be protected by the Buddhist gods.

IT is vital to deepen your "roots of faith". If the roots of your faith are deep, you will never be toppled by the winds of impermanence. The "branches" of complete fulfilment will then grow, and the "fruit" of your change in destiny towards the attainment of Buddhahood will ripen. The accumulation of many experiences in faith, along with your daily practice and effort, will nourish the root of your faith and allow them to spread and deepen. 

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/ 
Pic:www.windowsphone.com

Daily Encouragement

26th March 2013

Of foremost importance are the people--not celebrities, the powerful, the rich, scholars or others whom society deems great or praiseworthy. The purpose of all things must be the happiness of the people. Everything else should be but a means to that end. Those who fail to recognize this fundamental point and look down on the people and exploit them are thoroughly vile and contemptible; they are a hindrance to people's happiness.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

Tuesday

26th March 2013

THE power of daimoku is invincible. Through daimoku, there is no situation we cannot change, no obstacle we cannot surmount, no battle in kosen-rufu or in daily life we cannot win. As long as we possess strong faith, we can, at every moment, turn wherever we are into a Land of Tranquil Light.

THROUGH life-to-life encouragement in faith, we can polish our character and deepen our faith. Through encouraging one another in various ways, we can deepen our faith and secure a course along the correct path in life. The way of faith is profound; you cannot continue to walk it alone.

A single day of work for kosen-rufu rivals a year or even two years of living without such a goal when one considers the worth of the golden light it releases. That is because each day, each instant determines to what extent our life will be filled with blessing and merit.

ESPECIALLY since Buddhism teaches the true path of humanity, in the realm of Buddhism, there can be no excuse for such ingratitude as scorning and trampling on those who have helped you, for thinking only of yourself and not caring about anyone else. This is completely divorced from the true path of humanity.

AS human beings, we are polished and forged in the great sea of humanity. We are able to build a solid self through coming into contact and interacting with all kinds of people, young and old alike. It is the same in the realm of faith. We block off the path to our own happiness if we succumb to selfish faith that is disconnected from the SGI. That is what makes a harmoniously united organisation of faith so important.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/ 
Pic from: http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01456/budda_1456721c.jpg&imgrefurl

Daily Encouragement

25th March 2013

We are no longer in an age when one person can shoulder everything. Of course, for the day-to-day running of the organization someone will still be officially designated as president, but ultimately our future development hinges on every member having the commitment required of a Soka Gakkai president. With this spirit, this sense of responsibility, this leadership in your activities, may you always work for kosen-rufu and for the victory of the people. May you also build a Soka Gakkai where everyone can advance joyfully, a Soka Gakkai of undying progress.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html?day=25&month=3

Daily Encouragement

24th March 2013

The struggle we go through to have our prayers answered makes us stronger. If we were to immediately get everything we prayed for, we would become spoiled and decadent. We would lead indolent lives, devoid of any hard work or struggle. As a result, we would become shallow human beings. What, then, would be the point of faith?

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html?day=24&month=3

Daily Guidance

Monday
 

25th March 2013

THE spirit of mutual respect is the essence of Buddhist humanism. It is the profound teaching of Shakyamuni and Nichiren Daishonin. It is the light of hope that can transform the cycle of war and violence. The significance of your efforts to widely communicate the teachings of Buddhism is immense indeed.

BUDDHISM is concerned with reality. There is no such thing as Buddhism divorced from reality. Practising faith does not mean that your life will be free of the "mud" of suffering. It means acquiring the life force not to be defeated by suffering. In fact, it is necessary to have lots of struggles. Faith means developing the state of life to be able to enjoy even the challenge of facing and overcoming our hardships.

THOSE who toil in the shadows, enduring hardships unselfishly for the sake of kosen-rufu are truly respectworthy. You must put your whole heart into your efforts for kosen-rufu, sincerely and honestly. Such a spirit will surely reach the Gohonzon.

BUDDHIST believers who live with a sense of mission are never alone when they walk or involve themselves in any activity. They are surrounded by the four bodhisattvas who are always with them. These bodhisattvas are your allies. They will always protect you. I want you to be deeply convinced of this fact.

I hope the members of the youth division will forge ahead courageously along the great road to kosen-rufu and the correct path of faith. While basing yourselves on the Gohonzon, please advance towards kosen-rufu, the will of Nichiren Daishonin, and live the days of your youth most meaningfully.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/ 
 Pic from:http://www.google.com.my/imgres?imgurl=http://rlv.zcache.com/

24th March 2013

Daily Guidance

Sunday

24th March 2013 

 

 

YOUR efforts to study the gosho, no matter how busy your schedule or how difficult it may be to understand, are an expression of your seeking mind. Whether you understand it or not, I hope you will make an effort to read at least one passage or phrase of the gosho daily.
 
PEOPLE who walk a lot, who move a lot, are healthy in both mind and body. In the face of our rapidly aging society, walking will gain a higher and higher reputation. And on top of this, there is no more laudable movement than walking about for the sake of kosen-rufu.

IN life, there are times when we experience sickness; there are times when we find ourselves deadlocked. We have various sufferings and worries. However, those who believe in the Mystic Law, persevere in chanting daimoku, and dedicate themselves to kosen-rufu are able to change their worries into cause to experience ever greater happiness. For this reason, no matter what might happen, a place where such people are is an enlightened land.

DO not make excuses; take responsibility for your own life and resolve to be victorious. If you allow yourself to be defeated, all the excuses in the world will get you nowhere. Defeat is a defeat no matter how eloquently you may try to justify yourself. The important thing is to win where you are right now; to achieve victory without fail.

THE SGI is a realm of faith. The most important things in that realm are faith and personal character. We are studying, if you like, at the "people's university" of the SGI. This "SGI University" is the best university in the world, where we learn how to live as human beings. 

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/ 
Pic from:http://blog.iqmatrix.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/Law-of-Cause-Effect-Mind-Map-2000px.jpg

Daily Encouragement

March 23

Let us all set our sights on leading great lives dedicated always to truth and move toward that goal in good health, brimming with hope. Let us live our lives boldly, without regret, advancing with patience, enthusiasm and a genuine spirit of friendship and camaraderie.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance 

23rd March 2013

Saturday

RELIGION serves as a foundation for people's lives. When people possess a solid inner foundation of humanistic faith, then economics, philosophy and education can begin to fulfil their highest purpose. That is why a humanistic religious movement will inevitably be a movement dedicated to improving society and realising peace for all humankind. It is with this conviction that we of the SGI have developed our movement for peace, culture and education based on Buddhism.

CHARACTER and integrity are very important. A spirit of mutual respect and trust is a vital basis for real friendship. That said, there might naturally be times when you have arguments and disagreements with your friends. But there should always be an underlying spirit of respect and consideration for each other, no matter how close you are. In friendship, you must not think only of yourself.

WHEN something happens, the mind of a person who has not received training, of a self-conceited person, immediately becomes agitated and is swayed. If one's mind does not become settled, then one cannot advance straight ahead along the path of happiness on which attaining Buddhahood in this lifetime lies.

I cannot tell you how much I hope and pray that you will tenaciously carry on with courageous faith for the eternal prosperity of yourselves, your immediate families and all your relatives.

THE gosho stated, "Myo means to open," and "Myo means to revitalise." Faith opens the way for changing all problems and sufferings into happiness, joy and hope, giving us fresh vitality. Based on the principle of "substituting faith for wisdom", we can unlock the essential wisdom we possess within us.
 

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/
Pic from:blisswise.blogspot.com

Daily Encouragement

March 22

I call to each of you: Strive for prosperity! Strive for development! Strive for victory! Life is about striving all out to achieve our aims; it is about hard work and effort. Regardless of how smart you may be, intelligence alone cannot guarantee your future.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

22nd March 2013

Friday

SOME people seem to be active for a while, but eventually disappear from our movement for kosen-rufu. Almost without exception, such people are negligent in their daily practice of gongyo. Those who neglect doing gongyo will eventually lose their ability to grasp any points of faith or to accept guidance, no matter how great it may be.

ONE of my mottos is that waves get rougher every time they encounter an obstacle. Another is that the true hero is one who is strong when he rises up alone. These have been my convictions from the time I was sixteen.

TO live honestly and straightforwardly in the world of kosen-rufu. To always continue struggling forward. To persevere in the practice for oneself and for others. Through such efforts, the "heart" of faith will solidify. The world of Buddhahood exists in faith that is forged in such a fashion.

YOUR practice of gongyo and daimoku is not an obligation, it is a right. The Gohonzon will never demand that you chant to it. An attitude of appreciation in being able to chant to the Gohonzon is the heart of faith. The more you exert yourself in faith - in doing gongyo and chanting daimoku - the more you stand to gain.

"I am happy. For I uphold the unsurpassable Mystic Law" - just talk to others about Buddhism with this conviction. No matter what your present circumstances, everyone who chants and spreads the Mystic Law is an emissary of the Buddha. I hope you will all take great pride in the fact that you are accumulating immeasurable good fortune and walking a direct course to eternal happiness.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com
Pic from: www.pbs.org

Daily Encouragement

21st March 2013

Why is it that sometimes our prayers seem to not be answered? This is a manifestation of the Buddha's wisdom--so that we can deepen our prayers, become stronger people, live more profound lives and secure deeper, more lasting good fortune. If our slightest prayer were answered immediately, we'd become lazy and degenerate. And we couldn't hope to build a life of great dignity and substance.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

21st March 2013

Thursday

SOCIETY as a whole today seems shrouded in gloom. It is as if we have entered a dark tunnel. That is precisely why it is so important for us to energetically send the philosophy of hope, the voice of encouragement, the power of guidance to all around us. Those who can continue to do this are true leaders, and their lives emanate with the virtues of the Buddha who is dedicated to leading others to happiness.

IN any endeavour, the final stages of completion, the finishing touches, are important. The final outcome of our lives is also determined by how we live our final chapter, how we bring our life to completion. The teachings of Buddhism, which provide essential answers to the nature of life and death, are indispensable to this pursuit.

TO be victorious, one needs both wisdom and earnestness. If one is earnest but lacks wisdom, then one cannot win. Nor can one win if one has wisdom but is not serious on one's efforts.

SOMETIMES it may be important for a person to strike a dashing pose and wave the banner before his/her fellow members. But more important is to fight on the front lines, being willing to endure all sacrifices to protect others. The true hero is often not al all dashing, but a very humble, unassuming figure.

AS long as we maintain strong faith in the Gohonzon, we can always act with fresh vitality and overcome every difficulty as we gain a new outlook in life. We should remember that the prime point of faith is to live our entire lives with the deep conviction that no deadlock is impossible to surmount.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/
Pic from:rmvvision.wordpress.com 

Daily Encouragement

20th March 2013

There may be times when life seems gloomy and dull. When we feel stuck in some situation or other, when we are negative toward everything, when we feel lost and bewildered, not sure which way to turn--at such times we must transform our passive mind-set and determine, "I will proceed along this path," "I will pursue my mission today." When we do so a genuine springtime arrives in our hearts, and flowers start to blossom.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

20th March 2013

Wednesday

WITHOUT the pressure of air against its wings, an aeroplane cannot fly. In a similar sense, unless we experience hardship and suffering in life, we cannot feel any real joy. Though we will definitely meet difficulty and resistance in life when we live for the sake of kosen-rufu, our lives will shine brilliantly in the eyes of people around us, even though we, ourselves may not be aware of it.

PEOPLE with a purpose do not waste a moment of their lives, whatever age they may reach. Putting the hardships, studies and experiences of their youth to work for them, they bring their lives to completion with dignity. Their lives are fuller by several times than those people without purpose.

IF one's heart is true and unclouded, that in itself is happiness; one is filled with a sense of hope and develops the hardy fortitude of optimists. The door to happiness will open widely before those who possess the unflagging spirit to never give up or despair no matter what happens, to those with a heart that is always bright and cheerful.

IT is short-sighted to simply throw in the towel the moment you encounter the slightest obstacle or block. People who are truly motivated by the spirit to contribute to the well-being of others and to humanity never give up in their endeavours. In contrast, those who are motivated by vanity or by a shallow desire for fame or fortune are easily disheartened.

BUDDHISM concerns itself with winning. And it is crucial that we triumph. We must triumph over ourselves and triumph in life. That is the reason we practise Nichiren Buddhism.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/ 
Pic from: http://www.google.com.my/imgres?imgurl=http://robertjrgraham.com

Daily Encouragement

19th March 2013

By devoting ourselves earnestly to SGI activities, we gain the ability to turn all difficulties and obstacles into benefit, recognizing that earthly desires and delusions are enlightenment and that the sufferings of birth and death are nirvana. No matter how unpleasant the circumstances we find ourselves in, we can transform them into hope and good fortune--into eternal happiness. How incredible this is!

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

19th March 2013

Tuesday

WHEN viewed through the eyes of Buddhism, everything has profound meaning. We must not lament our situations. As long as we have strong, courageous faith, we can definitely transform all hardships into something positive, turning poison into medicine. Please engrave these words of Nichiren Daishonin in your heart, and continue advancing resolutely forward, no matter what happens.


YOU do not normally receive your pay cheque at the end of your first day at work. The sapling you planted today is not a mighty oak tomorrow. If our prayers were automatically answered; with no true, deep prayer on our part, without desperate life-to-death effort, we would become spoiled and useless. If that is how it works, our practice of Buddhism would not make us into people of outstanding character; it would destroy us.


WE are not alone and without friends. We can confidently overcome difficulties and turn everything into an impetus towards happiness. When one has a firm conviction of this, one will experience a sense of boundless courage; one will not be afraid of anything. Those who fear nothing are happy people.


IN any human relation, we must speak exactly as our conviction dictates, without a single cloud in our heart. That is a wonderful, invigourating way to live. And based on such a way of life, the bonds of the family, the bonds of comrades in faith are strengthened.

NO matter what sufferings or difficulties you may experience, you should never lose hope. Even if you may temporarily suffer from the devil of illness or financial difficulty, your heart should always be aglow with indestructible hope.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/
Pic from:vimeo.com 

Daily Encouragement

18th March 2013

Let us do our utmost to sustain the wonderfully warm atmosphere of the SGI--an atmosphere where members feel free to discuss whatever is on their minds. Unless we do so, our organization will stop growing, stop developing. The SGI is a world of humanity--of the heart, of faith, of compassion. It is a world of unity and mutual inspiration. That is why it is strong. If we continue to value and promote these qualities, the SGI will continue to grow and develop forever. I want to declare here and now the atmosphere where we can discuss anything is fundamental to the SGI.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

Monday

18th March 2013

 

 

THE Gosho stated that "the suffering of hell will vanish instantly". So long as you have ever-advancing faith, you will definitely erase your evil karma, change your destiny and enter a state of life in which all your desires are unmistakably fulfilled. Confident in this, please continue to chant abundant daimoku, always advancing another step with pure and gallant faith.

THOUGH we may speak of winning, there are various stages in life. No doubt some of you are now engaged in painful struggles with no signs of victory in sight. Still, you do not have to be discouraged in the least. What is important is gaining final victory. And it is towards this end that you carry through with faith.

A person of seeking spirit is always youthful, always full of joy, always vigourous. People with seeking minds humbly examine themselves, and strive to develop their lives. Through such efforts, they are able to develop great characters. A genuine Buddhist and genuine member of SGI is one who always lives vibrantly and continually advances through life with a seeking mind.

LIFE is long. There is no need to be impatient or in a hurry. The important thing is to steadily and surely build a solid self. Especially since you uphold faith in the Mystic Law, no matter what may happen, you can propel everything into the very best possible direction. Please advance with that conviction.

WHO is a youth? It is not simply a question of age. A youth is someone who keeps progressing day after day. A person who advances is a youth in the truest sense. If we lack the spirit to advance, we are old at heart, no matter how young we may be in years. Moreover, the Mystic Law is the font of perennial youth and eternal life. It allows us to make our way through the three existences of past, present and future with infinite life force.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/ 
Pic from:www.facebook.com

Daily Guidance

17th March 2013

Sunday

DO not stop striving until you achieve victory! Even if you are tired, never give up, never give in! Never forget your vow! This is the Soka Gakkai spirit. I hope you will all devote your lives to the great struggle to achieve the mission of kosen-rufu with the same determination.
 
YOU cannot truly grow, if you are always flattered and spoiled by those around you. You must resolve never to avoid hardship. If anything, you should have the spirit to go out of your way to find challenges and difficulties. The ultimate victors in life are those who have undergone and triumphed over hardships.

A coward in the end will be miserable. Nichiren Daishonin said, "A coward cannot have any of his/her prayers answered." (MW1, p246) No matter how much you may practice faith, if you are cowardly, then your prayers will not be answered. Even if you have the mighty sword (of the Lotus Sutra), unless you unsheathe it and wield it boldly, you will not be able to cut through anything.

A person who tries to control others through exercise of authority or through scheming is base at heart. In the end, such a person is certain to fall prey to his/her own schemes and wind up leading a miserable life. You must definitely not become the kind of person who, addicted to power and authority, arrogantly looks down on others.

WE were born into this world as disciples of the true Buddha, Nichiren Daishonin, to fulfil our pledge for kosen-rufu. It is our natural responsibility as Buddhists to work for the happiness of many people. The purpose of our daily activities lies in how we exert ourselves for the sake of those who are suffering.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/
Pic from:http://vachalenxeon.deviantart.com/art/Buddha-Jayanti-Victory-of-Diviner-304859600 

Daily Encouragement

March 17

You mustn't allow yourselves to grow old before your time. Please live with a youthful spirit. That is what Buddhism teaches us to do, and it is how life ought to be lived. If you make a commitment to work for the sake of others, you will be rejuvenated. If you devote your life to helping others, you'll stay young. The power of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo guarantees that.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html?day=17&month=3

Daily Encouragement

16th March 2013

March 16, Kosen-rufu Day. The spirit of this day lies not in magnificent ceremonies or high-sounding words. It lies in being victorious. That is the most crucial thing in all endeavors. In life and in kosen-rufu, we either win or lose. I would like you to be absolute victors in both. No matter what excuses we try to make, giving in to defeat brings misery and loses us the respect of others. I hope each of you without exception will adorn your life with indestructible triumph.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html?day=16&month=3

Daily Guidance

16th March 2013

Saturday

THE Gohonzon will never forsake those who dedicate themselves to kosen-rufu. Such people will definitely be praised by the Gohonzon and receive the protection of the Buddhist gods.

WHEN your friends are vigourous and in high spirits, you should be serene like the moonlight, and when they are down or dejected, you should warmly embrace them like the sun. I hope that you will advance while encouraging and praising one another - at times like a gentle breeze and at times like a warm current.

THERE may be times when others seem enviable. But others are others and you are you. Rather than comparing your every joy and sorrow to that of others, you should aim to surpass your limits in the situation you currently find yourself in. Those who can accomplish this throughout life are true victors, the true geniuses.

THE struggle to propagate Buddhism never stops for an instant. As the Lotus Sutra said, "This, the Buddha's work, I have never for a moment neglected" (LS16, 226). We must devote our entire beings to this great undertaking with our passion and energy; we must make our lives shine to illuminate that goal each second of our lives without cease.

YOUTH should have the spirit to exert 10 times the effort they have up to now. Faith is not empty posturing or lip service. It is action. It is all about whether you can stand alone.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/2013/03/16th-march.html 
Pic from: https://www.google.com.my

Daily Encouragement

15th March 2013

The true victors in life are those who, enduring repeated challenges and setbacks, have sent the roots of their being to such a depth that nothing can shake them.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

15th March 2013

Friday

BUDDHISM exists to enable all people to cultivate and manifest the world of Buddhahood in their lives. Human society is a realm of "discrimination" or "difference". But Buddhism transcends all superficial differences and focuses directly on life.

DO you give up the struggle to overcome your own limitations on the first attempt, or do you keep on with it, trying a second time, a third time, and continuing on in the challenge for the rest of your life? That is the only difference between the genius and the ordinary person. When all is said and done, winning over oneself - personal triumph - is the only way forward.

A person who warmly embraces and protects others is happy. A person who, on the other hand, is quick to scold or gives orders, or who harbours exclusivist tendencies, creates a cold, dark world around himself/herself.

AS followers of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth, we have stood up to fight for kosen-rufu of Myoho, or the Mystic Law. Therefore, as long as your faith is sincere and your actions are true, the Gohonzon will definitely protect you. Such precious individuals of pure faith, who act for the sake of kosen-rufu, can never fail to receive the Gohonzon's protection.

COMMITTED to the welfare of your local communities, you have all laboured diligently under the hot sun in the noble cause of kosen-rufu, visiting the home of one friend after another out of sincere concern for their happiness. This is our greatest strength. You have also carried out steadfast and tenacious one-to-one dialogue with many people. These unflagging efforts to build on one another are the reason why the SGI will never perish. This is the foundation for great victory, for great construction.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/ 
Pic from: eternalvalues.wordpress.com

Daily Encouragement

14th March

As SGI leaders, how we interpret the words of members and what we say in response are important. A genuine leader is someone who gives measured thought to such matters. When talking with individuals, ask yourselves: "What are they worried about?" "What are they trying to say?" "What are they thinking?" "What is it they seek?" Try to discern these things in others. Try to know. Try to understand. This is the challenge of leadership. From such compassion arises wisdom.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

14th March 2013

Thursday

OUR Soka organisation, which exists to promote kosen-rufu and to polish our faith, can be compared to a bridge which connects our lives with the lifeblood of faith, helping us attain enlightenment and absolute happiness. One who leaves the organisation and thinks that it is fine to practise alone at his/her own convenience, tends to develop a self-righteous attitude in faith, which is distorted by personal views and biases.

A person who cannot compliment others is lonely and has a narrow heart. Such a person cannot embrace others. On the other hand, when people praise one another, beautiful exchange becomes possible.

DIFFICULTIES only make the strong stronger. Sufferings may be poison to the weak, but they are medicine for the strong.

NO matter what one changes, the world will never be any better as long as people themselves - the guiding force and impetus behind all endeavours - remain selfish and lacking in compassion. In that respect, human revolution is the most fundamental of all revolutions, and at the same time, the most necessary revolution for humankind.

TRAINING that develops our humanity is very important. A person who is never challenged or tested is weak when a crucial moment comes. No matter how smart we are, we cannot take decisive leadership or kosen-rufu if we are weak as human beings. Those who have undergone thorough training in faith in their youth are strong.

Taken from: http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/ 
Pic from:http://www.google.com.my/imgres

Words Of Wisdom

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.





Taken  from:http://www.ikedaquotes.org/prayer
Pic from:http://latapatalk.blogspot.com/2012/02/lord-budha-animated-pictures.html

Daily Encouragement

13th March 2013

If we don't practice gongyo, the rhythm of our lives will be thrown off kilter, just as a machine that isn't oiled will rust. Gongyo and chanting daimoku are like starting an automobile's engine every day and driving in the direction of happiness and truth. By doing so day after day, you will gradually attain perfect unity with the universe and the Law. That state is the state of the Buddha.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Guidance

13th March 2013

Wednesday


NICHIREN DAISHONIN'S Buddhism teaches faith that is dedicated to advancing kosen-rufu. Faith equals daily life. Therefore, as long as we persevere in faith that is committed to kosen-rufu, it is possible for us to be successful and victorious in our daily life and in society, no matter what trying times we may find ourselves in at present.

YOU can make a defeat the cause for future victory. You can also make victory the cause for future defeat. The Buddhism of Nichiren Daishonin is the Buddhism of True Cause, the Buddhism of the present and the future. We do not dwell on the past. We are always challenging ourselves from the present towards the future.


THE truly valiant person tries to triumph over any situation, no matter how unfavourable. Excuses are a mark of the weak. Buddhism is victory, so we must triumph in the real world, all the while remaining true to our convictions.


JUST as a tree that lived a thousand years last another thousand years after it has been cut, happiness will continue and endure to the extent that we suffer to attain it. We acquire blessings and merits to the degree that we devote ourselves to Buddhist practice. Neither clever schemes nor tactfulness will achieve anything. You must on no account lead such a meaningless, frivolous life.


IT is our power of faith and power of practice that enables us to tap the absolute and boundless power of the Buddha and power of the Law of the Gohonzon. In this connection, your sincere, strong faith is most important. Therefore, we should maintain ever-advancing faith and practice throughout our life.

Taken from: http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/
Pic from:http://www.facebook.com/say.niv/notes

Daily Encouragement

12th March 2013

As SGI members our work, our mission, is clear. We have the unparalleled task of working for the happiness of all humanity in an endeavor we call kosen-rufu. To participate in SGI activities and challenge ourselves earnestly on the path of our mission are the greatest happiness. It all comes down to whether we can appreciate this point.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

12th March 2013

Daily Guidance

Tuesday

12th March 2013

FAITH is not for anyone but yourself – it is all for you. Working to spread the Daishonin's teachings, devoting yourself to chanting daimoku, and studying doctrine while you are young are all tasks that will transform your life into a garden of blessings and merits.

BRINGING forth one's wisdom and breaking through deadlocks in difficult or trying times is precisely the kind of challenges that allows us to cultivate strong conviction and depth of character. In a life of nothing but fair skies and tranquil seas, we cannot hope to forge great conviction or outstanding strength of character.

HAVING intense emotions enables you to understand the feelings of others. It is not a bad thing to be passionate, but if it is driven by egotism and hurts others, it can be dangerous. The point is, you must have self discipline. And that comes from chanting daimoku, from developing a strong life force.

THERE are many paths in life. Paths leading to celebrity. Paths leading to fame. Paths leading to high social standing. And the list goes on. But where do we find the path to attaining Buddhahood? It is found only in efforts to expand the flow of kosen-rufu.

IT is vital that those in positions of responsibilities proportionately deepen their faith; love and protect and guide others; and strive to progress one step further in their personal development. Remember that because you have seniors, you were able to open your eyes to faith yourself.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/ 
Pic from:sarvajan.ambedkar.org 

Daily Encouragement

11th March 2013

All right, let's get to work again!--This is the spirit of people of genuine substance. Those who avoid hard work or neglect the things they have to do, who just while away their time, eating, sleeping, playing, watching television--such individuals will never experience true happiness, satisfaction or joy.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

11th March 2013

Daily Guidance

Monday

11th March 2013

  

HUMAN beings do not exist for the sake of religion. Instead, religion exists for the sake of human beings. Genuine religion is committed to the welfare and benefit of humanity, to contribute to society and to champion the cause of justice. Historically, too, we can see that when nations have advanced based on true Buddhist humanism, they have prospered; their culture flourished and peace blossomed.

TAKING your place as a member of society is a challenge; it is a struggle to survive. But wherever you are is exactly where you need to be, so you must strive there to the best of your ability. No matter what obstacles you face, it is crucial that you work on transforming the situation and realising victory where you are. This is the way of a votary of the Lotus Sutra.

UNDER any conditions, the key to achieving happiness lies in being confident that one will definitely not be defeated, that one will definitely win.

THROUGH taking faith in the Mystic Law, the seed of Buddhahood is planted in our beings. Nothing can bring greater joy or happiness than this. Our activities for kosen-rufu, our Buddhist practice, are what make those seeds grow larger day by day. Cultivating people's minds and planting the seeds of the Mystic Law there, we raise our own seed of Buddhahood into a great tree. I hope that your days will continue to be passed in this noble and joy-filled work of faith.

THE Gakkai spirit is the spirit to protect the Gohonzon, to pray to it, and to propagate faith. It is the spirit of shakubuku and the spirit of unlimited challenge towards kosen-rufu. It is the spirit not to retreat in the face of any difficulty.

Taken from:http://dailyguidance.blogspot.com/
Pic from: http://www.google.com.my/imgres

Daily Encouragement

10th March 2013

Where is happiness to be found? The famous Roman philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius (121-80) 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. 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.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html

Daily Encouragement

9th March 2013

The fundamental spirit of Buddhism is that all people are equal. A person is not great simply because of his or her social standing, fame, academic background or position in the organization. In the world of faith, the truly great are those who spread the Mystic Law and strive for kosen-rufu, who actively work for the sake of Buddhism and the happiness of others. Supremely respectworthy are those who champion the cause of kosen-rufu.

Taken from:http://www.sgi.org/sgi-president/daily-encouragement.html