In “On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land,” the Daishonin describes the “host” who engages the “guest” in dialogue as “a friend in the orchid room.” In a room filled with orchids, the flowers’ sweet fragrance permeates the clothing of those who enter. In the same way, our dialogues on Buddhism … …
by Lillian KoizumiSpecial to the Tribune Amid renewed global tensions and the ongoing threat of nuclear war, the Ikeda Center co-hosted a weekendlong conference, “Educating for Peace: A Teachers’ Conference for Nuclear Disarmament Education,” bringing together dedicated educators to address this critical challenge. The conference marked the beginning of a collaborative effort intended to help … Educating for Peace
I always feel a rising excitement in my heart when the week for discussion meetings comes around each month. I envision the warm light glowing in the windows of meeting places throughout Japan. I hear the members’ happy voices singing Soka Gakkai songs and their joyous laughter. I imagine the topics that are being discussed … …
Young people are works in progress, not yet complete. That’s what makes each young person an unknown quantity with limitless potential. Youth are a vibrant force for new, positive change; they are bursting with energy and vitality. Nothing is more wonderful than this. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, … …
The Lotus Sutra, the ultimate teaching of Shakyamuni Buddha, is itself a discussion meeting on a grand scale. It is a gathering of people earnestly seeking the meaning and purpose of life. Shakyamuni replies to their questions with utter sincerity, relating his personal experiences and employing similes and parables. Those observing and listening to this … …
If we look at things from the perspective of faith, the way forward will become clear to us. Do not be deceived by pretense or hypocrisy. The time of youth is one when we are easily swayed by our emotions and environment. Establishing an unshakable foundation of Buddhist study in your lives while you are … …
On the eve of the young men’s division’s establishment, my mentor, second Soka Gakkai President Josei Toda, said to me, “Start your struggle as a group leader on the front lines, and lead our organization toward the realization of kosen-rufu!” “I’m counting on you!” he declared and then urged me: “Work for the happiness of … …
In the eyes of society, our discussion meetings may seem very simple, modest gatherings, involving a small number of individuals and not particularly noteworthy. But these meetings are based on a profound philosophy that teaches the Law pervading the entire universe. They have a warmth that embraces everyone. They brim with irrepressible hope that can … …
I hope you will all experience for yourselves, and demonstrate to others, just how sublime is a youth spent exerting oneself in the two ways of practice and study. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, p. 311
A caring spirit and deep concern for others is indispensable in offering personal guidance. That spirit will manifest as warm consideration and words of heartfelt concern and encouragement. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 3, revised edition, p. 99