My flight from Hokkaido had a stopover at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, and my mentor, Josei Toda, was there waiting to meet me. At that time, he said, “Daisaku, should death overtake you, I will rush to your side and throw myself upon you and accompany you in death.” There were tears in his eyes. … …
Mr. Makiguchi truly worked tirelessly to advance kosen-rufu, spreading the Mystic Law. Amid persecution by the authorities and while already at an advanced age, he conducted more than 240 discussion meetings (from May 1941 to June 1943, when he turned seventy-two). He also traveled alone to different regions and personally introduced some five hundred people … …
Observing many leaders, I have come to the conclusion that those who have dedicated themselves to offering personal guidance to members never give up their practice. I think this is because giving guidance—though hard, unglamorous, and inconspicuous work that requires a great deal of patience—truly deepens one’s faith. And as these leaders continue to offer … …
The student division’s mission, deeply imbued with the Soka Gakkai’s history at that time, is to develop leaders of the Mystic Law who are committed to living their lives together with the people, protecting the people and fighting for the people. June 2025 Living Buddhism, pp. 51-52
Nichiren Daishonin writes, “The popular proverb says that ‘one is the mother of ten thousand’” (WND-1, 131). One person may seem small and unimportant, but one person is the “mother,” or source, that can empower countless multitudes. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 3, revised edition, p. 95
Mr. Toda declared with absolute conviction, “If practicing this Buddhism doesn’t make you happy, I will give you my life!” If we cannot help real, living people, no matter how deep their despair, then this Buddhism is a lie. Mr. Toda continued, with all his might, to touch people’s lives and awaken in them a … …
The Soka Gakkai has always worked for the happiness of the people, and it continues to do so today. That’s why it has won the people’s trust. There is nothing more powerful. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 3, revised edition, p. 358
In most cases, by simply interacting with others as true friends and communicating sincerely and openly, we will help them form a connection with Buddhism. It is also important that we continue to pray for the happiness of those individuals. Later, we may have an opportunity to talk to them in a very natural way … …
I have met with many leaders of international stature and renown in my time and spoken with individuals who will no doubt be recognized by history, but Mr. Toda was a leader of singular greatness. I know this better than anyone. It is an unparalleled source of pride to have lived my life as the … …
You are all dealing with personal challenges, I am sure. But you have voluntarily chosen to be born into these circumstances. You are all courageous Bodhisattvas of the Earth, who in accord with your own vow and mission have risen to action to create peace and happiness wherever you live. From The Wisdom for Creating … …