Transforming Our Way of Living

This is an excerpt of an article by Mr Ikeda in the Japan Times, titled "Transforming Our Way of Living"

....encouragement is not something offered at arm's length, keeping oneself at a safe distance. Real encouragement is conveyed only in the process of sharing the reality of life's sufferings and challenges. Making the effort to live this way amid the corruptions and humiliations of society, striving to offer the gifts of courage and hope, brings out the inner radiance of our lives. Encouraging others enables us to fully grasp the meaning of our lives and experience enduring happiness. The transformation from a self-centered, self-involved way of life to one dedicated to the well-being of others is the process of "human revolution."

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/eo20070412a1.html

Anti-Social is not good!

In Japan, the mountain potatoes known as taros are rough and dirty when harvested, but when they are placed in a basin of running water together and rolled against each other, the skin peels away, leaving the potatoes shining clean and ready for cooking. Similarly, the only way for us to hone and polish our character is through our interactions with others.

Illness

Illness is not something to feel ashamed of. It is not a sign of misfortune or defeat. Suffering is the fuel of wisdom, and it opens the way to happiness. Through illness, human beings can gain insight into the meaning of life, understand its value and dignity, and strive to lead more fulfilling lives.

- ikedaquotes.org

Envy

An envious person does not look at those more capable than him and aspire to better himself; he plots to drag them down to his own level. Jealousy is simply an unwitting admittance of one's own flaws and failings.

- from ikedaquotes.org

Overcoming Difficulties

"Whatever your work may be, make a greater effort than anyone else and strive to produce remarkable results, demonstrating your victory for all to see.

Q: What have you enjoyed most in life?
A: Overcoming difficulties. (by Helen Keller)

True happiness in life is found in struggling to accomplish something of value.”

One mind

"When we are all of one mind, we can succeed in anything. And even when we fail, failure opens up new paths and new vistas for other attempts. When we work together, there will always be a way. This is the strength given to believers in true Buddhism."

- Josei Toda -

High Standards

"... every worthwhile project demands work and effort. In times like these, you'll never accomplish anything with a defeatist attitude." Toda continued: "Set yourself difficult tasks; then overcome them. Weaklings are afraid of difficulties, but I know I don't have any weaklings in my office."

- Josei Toda -

Friendship

Friendship, precious in any form, is more ennobling when it is based on a common belief in some great cause. Purely worldly friendship, though often beautiful and valuable, does not always go deep; it may even disintegrate in the face of difficulties and adversities. Friendship between people of common faith, however, endures anything and inspires the friends to risk their very lives in the struggle toward their common goal.

- Josei Toda -