Both ourselves and others matter. Caring only about one’s own happiness is selfish. Claiming to care only about the happiness of others is hypocritical. Real “joy” lies in both ourselves and others becoming happy together. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, p. 228
When we face a tough situation, that’s the time we need to summon our courage. The more difficult the challenge, the more bravely we must tackle it. This is the essence of the Soka Gakkai spirit. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 3, revised edition, p. 260
Our practice of Nichiren Buddhism empowers us to build a strong self that can bravely face every trial we encounter, enabling us to challenge the situation with a positive spirit and see it as a chance for growth. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, p. 125
Becoming people who are trusted, respected, and liked by all—indispensable people who are needed at home, at work, and in our community—is the way to show the validity of our Buddhist practice and advance our movement for kosen-rufu. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, p. 100
Nichiren Buddhism gives us the power to ride out life’s rough waves. The path to building indestructible happiness is found on the front lines of Soka Gakkai activities. Our dedicated efforts for kosen-rufu bring us precious good fortune, each step we take along the way enabling us to transform our karma and open the way … …
When the SGI was established on Guam [on January 26, 1975], I said to the assembled members: “Rather than seeking after your own praise or glory, I hope that you will dedicate your noble lives to sowing the seeds of peace of the Mystic Law throughout the entire world. I shall do the same.” I … …
A person who can sincerely say thank you has a healthy, vital spirit; each time we say those words, our hearts sparkle and life force wells up within us. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, p. 66
Whether in our personal relationships, our interactions with our neighbors and those around us, or in relations between nations, everything starts from meeting, talking, and getting to know one another. It’s a matter of having the courage to meet and talk with others. To choose dialogue is itself a victory for peace and a triumph … …
Buddhism teaches that both good and evil are potentialities that exist in all people. Compassion consists in the sustained and courageous effort to seek out the good in any person, whoever they may be, however they may behave. From The Wisdom for Creating Happiness and Peace, part 2, revised edition, p. 117
Some of those you talk with about Buddhism may immediately decide to take faith and start practicing, but others may not. There’s no need to worry. In both cases, your sincere prayers for others and your effort to share Buddhism with them produce enormous benefits. And precisely because it’s so challenging, you can tap your … …