What is the most important requirement for advancing together in the unity of “many in body, one in mind”? It is for each of us to make the oneness of mentor and disciple the center of our lives. Sharing the same heart and spirit as our mentor is the key to us—a gathering of diverse … …
The universe, in its essence, is Nam-myoho-renge-kyo; our life is an expression of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo; and the Gohonzon is an embodiment of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. Since all three are Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, they are essentially one and indivisible. Therefore, when we chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, our life and the universe are aligned around the Gohonzon—meshing together perfectly like cogs in a machine—and … …
When we do something, do we approach it with a negative attitude—grumbling, “Oh, not again! I hate this!”—or a positive attitude—telling ourselves brightly, “All right, here’s a fresh opportunity to gain good fortune!”? This seemingly small, subtle difference in attitude can make a huge difference in our lives. It can change things 180 degrees. From … …
Prayer in Nichiren Buddhism is free of all arrogance and conceit. The very act of sitting before the Gohonzon and chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo pulses with the humble spirit to transcend attachment to one’s own shallow wisdom and limited experience to become one with the Law of life and the fundamental rhythm of nature and the universe, … …
Let’s start by offering words of praise. All of us are human and bound to experience ups and downs in our moods and emotions from time to time. But as leaders, let’s always make a point of starting off by warmly greeting everyone and expressing our appreciation for their efforts. Doing so lifts not only … …
Late at night on April 24, Shin’ichi opened his diary. Recalling the events of the day, he felt a tumult of emotion. “This day that should have marked our fresh, hope-filled departure toward the twenty-first century was all too somber,” he thought…He picked up his pen and wrote to record this day for posterity. After … …
Late at night on April 24, Shin’ichi opened his diary. Recalling the events of the day, he felt a tumult of emotion. “This day that should have marked our fresh, hope-filled departure toward the twenty-first century was all too somber,” he thought. “The members attending the prefecture leaders meeting looked heavyhearted….” He picked up his … …
Prayer is not something abstract. Many today may regard the intangible, unseen realm of life as nothing more than a product of the imagination. But if we were to view things only from a material perspective, then our relationships with people and things would largely appear to arise solely from the chaos of randomness. The … …
All people are pioneers traveling the frontiers of life. Therefore, it is up to you alone to cultivate and develop your own life. You must wield the hoe of faith, sow the seeds of happiness, and persevere tenaciously. The sweat of your efforts for kosen-rufu will become precious gems of good fortune, forever dignifying your … …
In the light of the law of cause and effect, through the good fortune we accumulate by treasuring and caring for many people, we will be able to attain a state of life in which we are protected and supported by many others in this and future existences. Our Buddhist practice today is the cause … …