Day 33 - Oneness of Self & Environment

Oneness of Self and Environment

The Buddhist principle of the oneness of self and environment (esho funi) means that life (sho) and its environment (e) are inseparable (funi). Funi means "two but not two." This means that although we perceive things around us as separate from us, there is a dimension of our lives that is one with the universe. At the most fundamental level of life itself, there is no separation between ourselves and the environment.

Buddhism teaches that life manifests itself in both a living subject and an objective environment. Nichiren wrote, "Life at each moment encompasses...both self and environment of all sentient beings in every condition of life as well as insentient beings--plants, sky and earth, on down to the most minute particles of dust."

"Life" means the subjective self that experiences the effects of past actions and is capable of creating new causes for the future. The environment is the objective realm where the karmic effects of life take shape. Each living being has his or her own unique environment. For example, a person whose inner life is in a state of hell may perceive the environment of the inside of a crowded subway train as being hellish, while a person in the state known in Buddhism as bodhisattva (see January 1998 issue) might manage to feel compassion and a sense of camaraderie with the other people pressed around them.

People also create physical environments which reflect their inner reality. For instance, someone who is depressed is likely to neglect his home and personal appearance. On the other hand, someone who is secure and generous creates a warm and attractive environment around them.

According to Buddhism, everything around us, including work and family relationships, is the reflection of our inner lives. Everything is perceived through the self and alters according to the individual's inner state of life. Thus, if we change ourselves, our circumstances will inevitably change also.

This is a liberating concept as it means that there is no need to seek enlightenment outside ourselves or in a particular place. Wherever we are, in whatever circumstances, we can bring forth our innate Buddhahood, thus transforming our experience of our environment into "the Buddha's land"--the joy-filled place where we can create value for ourselves and for others.

As Nichiren wrote, "If the minds of the people are impure, their land is also impure, but if their minds are pure, so is their land. There are not two lands, pure and impure in themselves. The difference lies solely in the good or evil of our minds." ("Evil" means self-centered and shortsighted actions based on greed, arrogance, fear and aggression.)

This is simply illustrated by the state of the natural environment in different societies. In some rural environments, indigenous peoples show deep respect for their natural surroundings, not taking more than they need, and the riches of nature have been preserved, providing protection and sustenance in return. However, in developed areas where materialistic greed predominates, the environment has frequently been devoured and stripped, with catastrophic effects.

The single most positive action we can make for society and the land is to transform our own lives, so that they are no longer dominated by anger, greed and fear. When we manifest wisdom, generosity and integrity, we naturally make more valuable choices, and we will find that our surroundings are nurturing and supportive. Often, we cannot foresee the long-term results of our actions, and it is hard to believe that one individual's choices can really affect the state of the world, but Buddhism teaches that through the oneness of self and environment, everything is interconnected.

And the more we believe that our actions do make a difference, the greater the difference we find we can make.

[Courtesy April 1998 SGI Quarterly]

Day 34 - From Worrier to Warrior

“It is the lack of courage that prevents one from attaining Buddhahood, although one may have professed faith in the Lotus Sutra…” (The three obstacles and four devils, WND-1, pg637). This is one quote that is the answer whenever I find myself wondering why I am in a deadlock, even though I practice Nichiren Buddhism. If I was asked to sum up all my weak moments, reasons for all past failures, in one word, it would be ‘fear.’

During a discussion meeting I attended in January, everyone was asked to write down one of their goals for this year. The unique thing about this activity was that we also had to write down what the realities of our lives were, in relation to that goal. Holding that piece of blank paper, I realized everything inside of me was screaming- I want to rid my life of fear!! I cannot even count how many times in my life I have been afraid to do something because “what will other people think of me”, or afraid to start something new out of fear of ‘I’m not ready yet or not prepared enough’, or ‘what if this doesn’t work’ etc. etc. etc. In the “Youthful Diary”, President Ikeda says, “Courage is the hallmark of youth.” I would keep reading this, and think “not me”. I am quite the opposite in fact! It is very suffocating, all this time to live under constant fear. So, at this discussion meeting, I determined to start a personal campaign: Replace fear with trust. Trust in my daimoku! By worrying about whether or not I will be able to achieve my goals, even though I am chanting to achieve them, I realized, I am only diminishing the power of my daimoku.

What made the most difference though, is realizing that my victory over this fear is ensured when I base my practice on the oneness of mentor and disciple. The Summer Family Festival held at the Seattle Culture Center this past August, has helped me so much in understanding what it means to be a disciple of Sensei; true to the theme of the festival: Together with our Mentor, Expanding our Path of Eternal Victory. Throughout all the preparations for this festival, and then later attending the Soka Spirit conference, I have started to understand the need for me to continually strive to understand the oneness of mentor and disciple. Through these activities, I have come to understand Sensei’s words, “the mentor-disciple relationship is the heart of Buddhism; it is the key to limitless growth and self-improvement ….. I would be satisfied if I could set an example for future generations of how a true disciple of Mr. Toda, a mentor without parallel, should lead his or her life. My mentor poured his heart and soul into fostering me, and I responded by replying to his expectations with the whole of my being.” (Sept 3, 2004 WT, Special Pullout, p II). THIS IS OUR TIME TO RESPOND, TO SHOW HOW GENUINE DISCIPLES OF IKEDA SENSEI LEAD THEIR VICTORIOUS LIVES!!!!!!

Reeteka Sud, South King Area Young Women’s Leader

Day 35 - Practicing Selfless Compassion

My 100 Days with Sensei

A couple of nights before the Soka Spirit Conference I found out one of my best friends, Ansley, had just found out she had another tumor. This one was right next to a major artery, so she could die at any moment. The night before we left for Oregon we had a planning meeting for the study presentation we were going to put on. Right in the middle of the meeting someone called me. I didn’t answer the phone because we were in the middle of a meeting, but I did glance at the display long enough to see it was one of our other friends. I became petrified because the news of her tumor was so fresh in my mind. I thought she had died. After the meeting was over I anxiously checked my voicemail and was relieved to find out that she was just inviting me to a water polo game.

During the first day of the conference I was still in a bit of a panic, which soon dissipated due to all the daimoku and activities.

About a week later, in October, one of our other friends went to visit her in the hospital. One thing you should know about Ansley is that she is very optimistic. If you tell her something distressing she’ll always be able to find a bright side. When Katie went to visit her, she said something to the point of thinking she wasn’t going to live through this one. This scared everyone. A lot. I found all this out at her homecoming that Ansley couldn’t go to.

A week later her birthday came around and the night before I determined that she would be cancer free by New Year’s Eve. The week after that she was feeling much better and was at home, and, therefore, was planning to go to my school’s homecoming with some of our friends and me. As it turns out she couldn’t go to this one either because she was still restricted to a wheelchair outside of her house.

It’s been a month since then and she’s still mostly trapped in her house, but now she can walk around and she goes to school sometimes. She seems to be getting better. I’ve started doing Gongyo every night and chanting for her health. A couple weeks ago I went to visit her and invited her to come to a youth meeting. She said she’d really like to. She actually did come to our Chapter Youth Division Halloween Party the weekend before Halloween. That night we had seven guests and twenty-one youth come to the meeting.

There haven’t been any major break throughs with her health yet, but I’m sure that soon something great is going to happen.

Tasha Hobbs, Kent/Covington Young Women's District Leader

Day 36 - True Happiness

"Faith means to believe that our lives and the fundamental Law of the universe are essentially one. All people can manifest the Law of Myoho-renge-kyo and thereby attain Buddhahood. That is, faith is to believe we can become absolutely happy and wise in this lifetime through our practice of chanting to the Gohonzon."

"Also, genuine faith seeks outward expression in actions for the happiness of all people, for kosen-rufu. With such faith, our chanting encompasses both practice for oneself and for others."

"Sincere earnest prayer matters most in chanting. Merely repeating the words Nam-myoho-renge-kyo may bring some benefit, but without faith it will not bring true benefit - the attainment of Buddhahood. Those who chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with correct faith and practice will dispel the fundamental darkness obscuring the Mystic Law in their lives. The Law will then function freely within them, expressing itself as the emergence of the life-condition of Buddhahood. This is what Nichiren means by true happiness." (November-December 2007, Living Buddhism)

On Behalf of the PNW Zone Youth Team,
Johnnie, David, Yoshi, Yumi, Irene & Shawn

Day 37 - Why Shakubuku?

"Why is shakubuku - the method of propagating Buddhism by refuting people's disbelief of the correct teaching and their slander of the Law - the way to attain Buddhahood in the Latter Day of the Law? In the Latter Day, which is characterized by widespread slander of the Law, there is no other way to protect the correct teaching of Buddhism."

"Furthermore, those attached to erroneous philosophies or to status and position will definitely react negatively and try to oppress those who practice shakubuku. If our commitment - our faith in the correct teaching of Buddhism - is strong, then we can transcend our concerns for self-preservation and bring forth the courage to practice as Nichiren instructed."

"When we courageously promote shakubuku in the Latter Day of the Law, obstacles will definitely occur. But if we maintain our commitment to the correct teaching despite obstacles, then through the strength of faith, courage and conviction, we can quash our on disbelief and eradicate our own slander of the Law. In this way, our innate Buddha nature will be activated, and the life of Buddhahood will emerge."

(Commentaries on Buddhahood - Lessons on The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, Letter from Sado)

On Behalf of the PNW Zone Youth Team,
Johnnie, David, Yoshi, Irene, Yumi & Shawn

Day 38 - Daily Gosho & Encouragement

"Strive even harder in faith, and never give in to negligence. All the people appear to believe sincerely when they first embrace the Lotus Sutra, but as time passes, they ten to become less devout; they no longer revere or make offerings to the priest, giving themselves up to arrogance and forming distorted views. This is most frightening." (WND, 1027)

Please do not forget your mother's love or the hardships she has endured for you. I am convinced that while people keep the memory of their mothers loving faces alive in their minds, they will never go far astray. Similarly, as long we bear in mind the Daishonin's profound compassion and live in deep appreciation of it, our lives will be illuminated brightly by the light of Buddhahood. An enveloped in the Gohonzon's great compassion, we will walk along a path that is filled with tranquility and immeasurable joy. (For Today & Tomorrow, Daisaku Ikeda)

Day 39 - Daily Gosho & Encouragement

"A person of wisdom is one who, understanding the time, spreads the teachings of the Lotus Sutra accordingly, this is his most important task. If a person's throat is dry, what he needs is water; he has no use for bows and arrows, weapons and sticks. If a person is naked, he wants suit of clothes but has no need for water. From one or two examples you can guess the principle that applies in general. (WND, 518)

"Rosa Parks wrote in her book Quiet Strength: "I find that if I am thinking too much of my own problems and the fact that at times things are not just like I want them to be, I do not make any progress at all. But if I look around and see what I can do, and then I do it, I move on." Youth, and indeed life itself, flashes by in the link of an eye. That is why it is important for you young people to ask yourselves what you can do for those who are suffering, what you can do to resolve the contradictions that plague society and to boldly take on these great challenges." (For Today & Tomorrow, Daisaku Ikeda)

Day 40 - Questioning My Doubts

"There are two kinds of wisdom, correct and perverse. No matter how wise a person may appear, if his assertions are warped you should not listen to him. Nor should you follow priests merely because they are venerable or of high rank... If you do not question and resolve your doubts, you cannot dispell the dark clouds of illusion, any more than you could travel a thousand miles without legs."(WND, 1028, 1031)

Bringing happiness to people's daily lives was Nichiren's greatest wish.

Hello! My name is Art and I'm in the Youth Division in Anchorage, Alaska [age 13]. I've been chanting for a year and a half, with my mom, who is in the Women's Division. We heard about Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism many years ago in Thailand, through my aunt,who has been practicing for many, many years.

It seems like my life is different now that I have chanted. There are many obstacles that I've overcome through chanting. I used the quote above from one of Nichiren's writings because it really says that you can't succeed fully if you don't question your doubts... if you simply leave them alone then the dark clouds of illusion will hang over you! And rain will fall and sunshine will cease to exist, unless you strive to resolve those doubts.

Chanting also makes me feel better, every time. For example, if I am upset for whatever reason, and I go chant, I feel better. I also notice that when I chant vigorously for something, sometimes I don't necessarily get what I want, but I get something that is better than what I had chanted for originally. For instance, I was chanting for something incredible to happen at school. Within that week, my teachers told me I was picked to be a Student of the Month. Furthermore, I also won a prize drawing at the quarterly assembly (it was an iPod - 3rd generation, 8GB and a $50 gift card) and I was thrilled!

And, one of my favorite daily guidances from President Ikeda:

"Buddhism is wisdom. As long as we have wisdom, we can put all things to the best use; we can turn everything in the direction of happiness."

Art, Fireweed District

Day 41 - Daily Gosho & Encouragement

"But now you, born a woman in the evil world of the latter age, while being reviled, struck, and persecuted by the barbaric inhabitants of this island country who are unaware of these things, have endured and are propagating the Lotus Sutra. The Buddha at Eagle Peak surely perceives that you surpass the nun [Mahaprajapati] as greatly as clouds do mud. The name of that nun, the Buddha Gladly Seen by All Living Beings, is no unrelated matter; it is now the name of the lay nun Myoho." (WND, 1106)

"There is a Russion proverb that says: "Is it no use to blame the looking glass if your face is awry." Likewise, one's happiness or unhappiness is entirely the reflection of the balance of good and bad causes accumulated in one's life. No one can blame others for his misfortunes. In the world of faith, it is necessary to realize this all the more clearly." (From Today & Tomorrow, Daisaku Ikeda)

We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving with your families and loved ones!

On Behalf of the Pacific Northwest Zone Youth Team,
Johnnie, David, Yoshi, Irene, Yumi & Shawn

Day 42 - Something Extraordinary

"There is definitely something extraordinary in the ebb and flow of the tide, the rising and setting of the moon, and the way in which summer, autumn, winter, and spring give way to each other. Something uncommon also occurs when an ordinary person attains Buddhahood. At such a time, the three obstacles and four devils will invariably appear, and the wise will rejoice while the foolish will retreat." (WND, 637)

"If you practice faith while doubting its effects, you will get results that are at best unsatisfactory. This is the reflection of your own weak faith on the mirror of the cosmos. On the other hand, when you stand up with strong confidence, you will accrue limitless blessings." (For Today & Tomorrow, Daisaku Ikeda)

Day 43 - Flying into Orbit

When I was a YWD in San Francisco I experienced the magic of traveling in Sensei’s orbit. President Ikeda came to the United States in 1990. The old NSA became the new SGI-USA. We began laying the foundation of the new American kosen-rufu movement. Danny Nagashima was the San Francisco joint territory leader and Cliff Sawyer my youth division leader.

I engraved Sensei’s 1990 guidance into my life. This passage by Sensei defines my youth division days:

“I always place a high value on personal initiative. Spontaneity underlies the spirit of autonomy and independence; conversely, taking action because one is told to amounts to slavery of the spirit. Kosen-rufu will be advanced by brave people armed with the spirit of independence who voluntarily strive to fulfill the vow they made at the time of kuan ganjo.”

During the first Iraq war, I made a determination to work for world peace. I took concrete action based on President Ikeda’s 1990 peace proposal. He wrote about Norman Cousins, president of the World Federalist Association (WFA). I called up the local WFA chapter and attended a meeting that week. That was when I learned the United Nations would celebrate its 50th anniversary in June 1995. As the birthplace of the United Nations, San Francisco was going to be a world center for UN-50 activities.

As Sensei’s disciple, I worked tirelessly over the next few years to lay the foundation for SGI-USA’s involvement in UN-50 activities. (In the photograph above, I’m introducing the UN-50 president to Sensei during his March 1993 visit to San Francisco.) This is how I discovered the ultimate power source: the oneness of mentor and disciple.

Fast forward fifteen years . . . . Sensei is laying the foundation for the second act of world-wide kosen rufu . . . . Danny is general director . . . . Cliff is the West Territory leader . . . . Time for me to tap the power source, fly into orbit, and feel the magic all over again!

Patty Duggan, Seattle Metro Region Women’s Leader

Day 44 - Fighting Until the End

I am determined to be the best nurse. I will not for one moment doubt my ability or the gohonzon. I will be an inspiration for others, of the never give up spirit and the power of faith. I will break through my obstacles and win!

I wrote this determination on 12/13/2006 after three years of applying to nursing school. I knew this is what I wanted to do.

Many, many passeges of Nichiren's writing kept me encouraged and lots of Sensei's guidance, every week in the World Tribune directed my approch to this seemingly endless Human Revolution.

I started reciting outload everyday the passage from, "On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime:"

"If you wish to free yourself from the suffings of birth and death you have endured since time without beginning and to attain without fail unsurpassed enlightenment in this life time, you must perceive the mystic truth that is originally inherent in all living beings. This truth is Myoho-renge-kyo. Chanting Myoho-renge-kyo will therefore enable you to grasp the mystic truth innate in all life." (WND, 3)

Everyday this passage kept me going and seemed to be more and more part of life everytime I sat down to read it. I totally started to believe in the gohonzon's power and I felt myself start to losening the grip of my controlling nature and leave it up to the power of faith, that I am myoho-renge-kyo.

I was accepted into nursing school this spring!

Marian Goodenough, Columbia River Area Young Women's Leader

Day 45 - November Message from Sensei

Happy November 18th!!

Message from Sensei:

"We send sincere congratulations on holding your district general meetings where you are sharing your ode to victory and joy.

To our friends, welcome to our meetings!

Please have a most enjoyable and bright gathering of the Soka family.

The district is a bastion of happiness. We are filled with praise and admiration for your vibrant advancement. Thank you very much for all your hard work and dedication.

We practice faith to become happy and to win in life. Buddhism enables one to change everything into a source of happiness and victory. Buddhism expounds the great principle that enhances one’s humanity and dignifies one’s life.

Nichiren Daishonin writes, “If a believer’s offense is slight, overlook it, and lead that person to obtain benefits. If it is serious, encourage him to strengthen his faith so that he can expiate the sin” (The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 626). As taught in this passage, any poison can be changed into medicine through the power of the Mystic Law. There are no problems that cannot be solved in light of the Mystic Law. With faith in this great Law, every individual can advance with hope and confidence, without any hesitation.

We are all human. We cannot become anything greater than human beings, but we can shine with humanism just as we are. We can bond deeply, helping and encouraging one another. In this process, your family will prosper and your community will develop. This is the real picture of kosen-rufu that we pursue.

Our beloved comrades in America! Prosper together with us and help others to do the same, advancing along the path of happiness, peace and victory.

You are all so important to us. We will continue to pray earnestly for your good health, happiness and the great fortune of your family. Please take good care of yourselves!"

Daisaku and Kaneko Ikeda
November 2007

Day 46 - Golden Autumn

When President Ikeda came to Seattle for the first time in 1960 he shared these thoughts...

"Perhaps the vivid autumn colors are the leaves' attempt to express their fullest brilliance in the limited span of their lives. Everything is impermanent. None of us can escape the cycle of birth aging, sickness and death. All we can do is base ourselves on the eternal Law and dedicate ourselves to our respective missions, while striving to burn strongly and brightly at each moment. Life is a struggle against a finite length of time. hence, the Daishonn writes: 'Life is limited; we must not begrudge it. What we should ultimately aspire to is the Buddha Land' (WND, 214). What I desire most right now is enough time to fulfill my mission."

"There was a sense of urgency in Shin'ichi's last words, but none of the others could grasp the depth of their meaning. Even more vivid than the golden autumn colors that spread among the trees was the vow to achieve kosen-rufu tat blazed like a brilliant red flame in Shin'ichi's heart. (The New Human Revolution, Vol. 1)

On Behalf of the PNW Zone Youth Team,
Johnnie, David, Yoshi, Irene, Yumi & Shawn

Day 47 - Alyeska District in Alaska

"The district lies on the forefront of our movement, and has a direct connection with each individual. At the same time, it is endowed with all of the functions necessary to support our daily activities. You might say that all our struggles in the realm of faith have centered on the district and that it is within the districct that each of us has grown."

"If we liken the Soka Gakkai to an orchard, each district corresponds to a single fruit tree, while the fruit represents each of you. Without the tree, there will be no fruit. Everything depends on the tree. Similarly, the real basis of the Soka Gakkai is each district that composes it. One could even say that the district itself is the Soka Gakkai." (The New Human Revolution, Vol. 1)

The above picture is of Alyeska's District General Meeting, November 15th in Anchorage, AK. They welcomed two new members to their district and had one guest. A woman joined because of her fight to get Medicare and a young man joined because he leaves to go to Afghanastan in the next few days. The meeting was so full of joy and centered around a guest who was introduced to Nichiren Buddhism by her co-worker, a long-time member.

On Behalf of the PNW Zone Youth Team,
Johnnie, David, Yoshi, Irene, Yumi & Shawn

Day 48 - Being True to Myself

"Nam-Myoho-Renge Kyo is like the roar of a lion. What sickness can therefore be an obstacle...A sword is useless in the hands of a coward. The mighty sword of the Lotus Sutra must be wielded by one courageous in faith...Muster your faith in the Gohonzon. Then what is there that cannot be achieved?" (WND, 412)

"if you summon your courage to challenge something, you'll never regret it. How sad it would be to spend your life wishing, "If only I had more courage." Whatever the outcome, the important thing is to take a step forward on the path that you believe is right. There's no need to worry about what others may think. It's your life, after all. Be true to yourself." (Sensei's guidance)

These quotes from my favorite gosho and sensei's guidance have resonated so much in my life lately. It has given me the courage to face all my obstacles inspite of all my doubts and fears.

I have never felt more appreciative of my practice, my SGI family, Sensei, my family and my life than now at age 28. I feel that there is no coincidence that my 100-day Bullet Train Campaign with Sensei and the dawn of the 2nd Act of Worldwide Kosen- Rufu is also happening at this crucial point in my life that has been longing for a tremendous human revolution. I am determined to accomplish the following by January 1, 2008:

1. Truly believe in Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo with my life and transform all my obstacles to benefit and truly transform my life!
2. Seek and truly understand Sensei's heart with my life and take action on behalf of Sensei.
3. Initiate the foundation for transforming my local SGI community with the help of my men's and women's leaders.
4. Have three of my dear friends receive the gohonzon and be able to experience the great fortune of practicing this Buddhism and fighting for Kosen-Rufu as disciples of Sensei in the 2nd Act.

I am determined to win no matter what!

With All My Heart,

Mahi Takazawa, Great Northwest Region Young Men's Leader

Day 49 - It All Comes Down to Training

Mr. Toda trained young people with great rigor and thoroughness for the sake of the future of kosen-rufu and the happiness of each individual. He firmly believed that capable individuals were only fostered through rigorous training. "Not a single person has achieved greatness without training," he remarked. He also said: "I only trust those who have received training and experienced hardships," and "It's better to experience hard work, you're fortunate if you can, and you'll benefit from it in the end. Those who have not fully exerted themselves or undergone training end up weak and miserable." This is so very true. The people who shine with happiness in the end are those who have struggled harder than most, those who have actively sought out training.

It all comes down to training. Without training, you won't able to bring out your potential when it counts most. What is real training? It is polishing your faith. Developing our abilities to share the Daishonin's Buddhism an engaging others in dialogue are wonderful ways to gain training.

Mr. Toda observed: "All who have received proper guidance and training concerning faith, introducing Buddhism to others, and developing leadership skills have grown to become excellent individuals." He also said: "Unless a diamond is polished, you cannot even tell it's a diamond. What's most important is to polish your faith through earnest struggles. Then you are guaranteed to accumulate immeasurable good fortune." Those who remain steadfast in their faith attain boundless good fortune that is as indestructible as a diamond.

On the other hand, anyone in an important leadership position who neglects to steadily deepen their faith, avoids activities, and exhibits cunning behavior will only end up in a wretched state of ruin. If leaders of this type proliferate, the Soka Gakkai will decline. We must ensure this doesn't happen.

Mr. Toda asserted that the Daishonin's disciples must be as courageous as th cubs of a lion king, saying the more they are trained, the stronger they become. The Gakkai is a gathering of lionhearted individuals. The greater the adversity we encounter, the stronger we become. The more pressure we face, the more vigorous we become. That's what it means to be lionhearted. Stand up with the firmest resolve and exert the powerful force of a charging lion. Be strong of heart and embark on your own personal drama of victory!

(Translated from the August 9, 2007 issue of the Seikyo Shimbun, the Soka Gakkai daily newspaper, and published as SGI Newsletter No. 7321)

Day 50 - Halfway to Victory!!

We are at the half way mark for our 100 days with Sensei!

Time to stretch, redetermine and keep chanting!! Here's some encouragement from the New Human Revolution about resolving to keep striving, no matter what!

Shin'ichi went on: "President Makiguchi, who was also advanced in age, carred on his struggle even in prison, asserting the truth of the Daishonin's Buddhism to the very end. I, too, am resolved to keep striving as long as I live, into my 70s and 80s. I will keep speaking, keep writing, keep calling out for justice. If I am no longer able to walk, I will still be able to write. And if I can't use my hands, I'll still be able to talk about Buddhism, I'll still be able to chant to the Gohonzon and read the Gosho.

"I will continue exerting myself until my last breath leaves my body, even if I have to crawl on all fours. That's my determination. Please watch me. For that is the path of Buddhism and will represent the total victory in my life." (New Human Revolution, Vol. 16, Heart and Soul Chapter)

On Behalf of the Pacific Northwest Zone Youth Team,
Johnnie, David, Yoshi, Irene, Yumi & Shawn

Day 51 - The Joy of Introducing Others

The joy of introducing others to the practice of Nichiren Buddhism is unfathomable!

Day 52 - Creating Opportunities for Youth

My determination for the youth performing is to develop it to a point where we can perform at a moment notice. If Sensei came tomorrow we would be prepared to perform, shine, and show what makes Olympic Cascade Region unique. Also to not only perform for "Big " meetings but for KRG/WPG and district meetings . It would also be cool if we could get involved in community events. As we start to get into this rhythm of regular
practice (I propose twice monthly) and we do have one of these "Big" meetings, practices in themselves would not drag on for 4-8 hours and practice 5 days a week as the event gets closer, but it could be better spent on home visits in preparation for the event, or in unity building activities like bowling, baseball, obstacle courses, paint balling, or just a little convo at a restaurant or backyard BBQ. And being prepared in YPG should get us planning for theses big meetings way in advance instead of the usual month before, so we can develop a performance that's not just thrown together at the last minute.

We should have group leaders and MD/WD designated for each performing group so the burden of such task don't fall onto the shoulders of one or the region or chapter leader that showed up for the first meeting. We should have MD/WD be there to encourage and help out especially if they have experience in YPG or the performing arts.

Along side the MD/WD, have the YPG be a place where our youth (especially our younger youth) have something to connect to in the organization and develop courage, faith, and character which they can bring back to their districts.

David Baker, YPG Olympic Cascade Region Leader & Rainier Chapter Young Men's Leader

Day 53 - Loving Our Discussion Meetings

Gearing up towards our joyful November General Meetings, Sensei's has this to share about discussion meetings...

"I always feel a rising excitement in my heart when the weekn for discussion meetings comes around each month. I envision the warm light glowing in the windows of meeting places throughout Japan. I hear the happy voices of members singing Soka Gakkai songs and their joyous laughter. I imagine the topics being discussed and the determinations everyone is conveying. I wish that I coul sit inconspicuously in the back of each room, wholeheartedly applauding and cheering on every speaker. I love discussion meetings." (Daisaku Ikeda, World Tribune, February 17th, 2006)

Day 54 - Daily Gosho & Encouragement

"Kyo's misfortune will chage into fortune. Muster your faith, and pray to this Gohonzon. Then what is there that cannot be achieved? There can be no doubt about the sura passages that say, "This sutra can fulfill their desires, as a clear cool pond can satisfy all those who are thristy," and "They will enjoy peace and security in their present existences and good circumstances in future existences." (WND, 412)

The Daishonin explains the significance of cause and effect: All sutras other than the Lotus Sutra expound that Buddhahood (effect), can be attained only after having made good causes, that is, practicing their teachings (causes), over a length of time. With the Lotus Sutra, however, the very act of embracing it (cause) enables one simultaneously to become a Buddha (effect). (For Today & Tomorrow, Daisaku Ikeda)

Day 55 - Power of Prayer

At 55 days before January 2nd, 2008, I'm deadlocked in the fury of suffering. Blindsided and completely disoriented by this pain, the only source of action that I am able to take for my life is to chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.

As Sensei expresses in his poem:

“Prayer is the courage to persevere. It is the struggle to overcome our own weakness and lack of confidence in ourselves. It is the act of impressing in the very depths of our being the conviction that we can change the situation without fail.

Prayer is the way to destroy all fear. It is the way to banish sorrow, the way to light a torch of hope. It is the revolution that rewrites the scenario of our destiny. Believe in yourself! Don’t sell yourself short! Devaluing yourself is contrary to Buddhism, because it denigrates the Buddha state of being within you.

Prayer is the effort to align the gears of our life with the movement of the universe. Our lives that have been passively embraced by the universe, now embrace the universe in turn, make the entire universe our ally, and fundamentally redirect our state of life in the direction of happiness.”

Through my personal campaign of earnest and often desperate daimoku, I have been able see some change in my life. I am able recognize and understand the purpose of my obstacles and am using it as a driving force for my own human revolution. I am able to read and study the gosho and Sensei’s guidance with my life. I am able to perceive how precious my sister, my family, my Buddhist family, and friends are. I am able to more freely share this Buddhist practice with the precious people around me. This is only a start, however.

It is no coincidence that the timing of my seemingly insurmountable test of faith runs perfectly in line with the “Bullet Train to Victory” campaign; for me, they are one and the same challenge. Today, tomorrow, and until January 2nd 2008, I have no other option but to continue to tackle my fundamental darkness head on and work to transform my weak spirit into a confident and strong life force. I will win. I will win the way I want to win. I am determined to make 2007 the best year of my life.

To conclude, I wanted to share some guidance that I have been carrying around with me for many years now:

“Your result is the reflection of your Faith in the Gohonzon. Whatever you are thinking in front of the Gohonzon will be true for you. Are you thinking FAILURE or VICTORY? Are you trying to tell the Gohonzon HOW to solve your problem or are you turning over your HEART’S DESIRE to the Gohonzon with UNLIMITED TRUST and FAITH? The Gohonzon’s power is beyond the comprehension of our minds. This is why we call it Mystic. Our challenge is to dream of results as big as the power of the Gohonzon, which has NO LIMIT! With this attitude of Faith, you can tap the INFINITE POWER of the Gohonzon in the depths of your life to create your future of joy, victory, and gratitude!

If you find yourself stuck, pray to RELEASE THE CHAINS OF DOUBT and FEAR clouding your mind of Faith. Chant for UNBOUNDED CONFIDENCE and COURAGE to win over your past and joyfully step into your bright future!

Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.

Faye Satta, Marina Rose District Young Women's Leader

Day 56 - Viewing Difficulties as a Source of Joy

There is a passage from "For Today And Tomorrow" that I would like to share:

Whether we regard difficulties in life as misfortunes or whether we view them as good fortune depends entirely on how much we have forged our inner determination. It all depends on our attitude or inner state of life. With a dauntless spirit, we can lead a cheerful and thoroughly enjoyable life. We can develop a "self" of such fortitude that we can look forward to life's trials and tribulations with a sense of profound elation and joy: "Come on obstacles! I've been expecting you! This is the opportunity I've been waiting for!" (Daisaku Ikeda, For Today And Tomorrow, p.327)

Though I find myself facing doubts a lot of the time, this guidance has encouraged me greatly from the first time I read it. Speaking personally, it is easy to get down on myself over minor issues. Hearing this just blows it all out of the water, though. All of this stuff coming out of my life that is driving me mad is actually, potentially, a source of joy? My problems aren't even all that big, but this seems crazy a lot of the time. When I do make a determination with this spirit, though, I can immediately see the difference. Every aspect of my life seems to move forward, whatever the outward appearance may be. I know that this must be the effort to share the same spirit as my mentor.

Tom Miller, Ravenna Vice Chapter Young Men's Leader

Day 57 - Daily Gosho & Encouragement

"In the end, no one can escape death. The sufferings at that time will be exactly like what we are experiencing now. Since death is the same in either case, you should be willing to offer your life for the Lotus Sutra. This of this offering as a drop of dew rejoining the ocean, or a speck of dust returning to the earth." (WND, 1003)

"To establish meaningful lives, I hope that during your youth you will work hard to polish you intellect. Life, in a sense, is a battle of wisdom. It is the power of Buddhism that enables one to win this battle. True faith is characterized by a brillance of intellect and depth of wisdom that result from devotion to practice." (For Today & Tomorrow, Daisaku Ikeda)

Day 58 - True Freedom

"Freedom doesn't mean an absence of all restrictions. It means possessing unshakable conviction in the face of any obstacle. This is true freedom." (Daisaku Ikeda, For Today and Tomorrow - September 7th)

Only with this Buddhist practice have I ever felt this Freedom. Every obstacle that I have faced as an individual, couple or family, I knew true VICTORY. I didn't always get the result I desired but I have always overcome with stronger faith, through sheer determination. In the face of my latest victory, I am making the determination to win with Sensei in this "The Second Act of Kosen Rufu."

Clair Korrell, Allenmore District, Olympic Cascade Region

Day 59 - Overcoming Doubt

"Although I and my disciples may encounter various difficulties, if we do not harbor doubts in our hearts, we will as a matter of course attain Buddhahood. Do not have doubts simply because heaven does not lend you protection. Do not be discouraged because you do not enjoy an easy and secure existence in this life. This is what I have taught my disciples morning and evening, and yet they begin to harbor doubts and abandon their faith." (WND, 283)

I love it because it says "we will as a matter of course attain Buddhahood." Not... maybe, or probably, or hopefully, or someday. we will as a matter of course. And I love that it addresses doubt and being discouraged that things aren't easy or things don't go our way. This kind of doubt is something that we all face, and it can become very easy to abandon faith.... but if we don't, we will as a matter of course attain Buddhahood. This passage has helped me through some very trying times.....

Julianne Koranda, Cascade Chapter Young Women's Leader

Day 60 - Challenging Negativity

"A passage from the Lotus Sutra reads that it is "the most difficult to believe and the most difficult to understand." Many hear about and accept this sutra, but when great obstacles arise, just as they were told would happen, few remember it and bear it firmly in mind. To accept is easy; to continue is difficult. But buddhahood lies in continuing faith. Those who uphold this sutra should be prepared to meet difficulties. It is certain, however, that they will "quickly attain the unsurpassed Buddha way." To continue means to cherish Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, the most important principle for all the Buddhas of the three existences." (WND, 471)

Just recently I made the determination to join in the 100 days with Sensei to change my life around. I decided to be 100% positive and after making these goals many obstacle arouse. Challenging this negativity has at times made me question the validity of my practice. Within the past month I have realized that I never had a practice for myself, but only practiced to please the people around me. This gosho quote encouraged me to continue and to not retreat in my goals. The obstacles are occurring because I am making the determination to challenge MYSELF and to develop my practice. I am determined to stay positive and change my outlook as I progress towards January 2nd!

Mindy Thomas, Riverfront District Young Women's Leaders

Day 61 - Daily Gosho & Encouragement

"You should realize that it is because of a profound karmic relationship from the past that you can teach others even a sentence or phrase of the Lotus Sutra." (WND, 33)

There are cases when we wonder why merit doesn't reveal itself in spite of our earnest and high degree of faith. At such times, rather than suspecting that you many entertain doubt about the Gohonzon, it is better to ask yourself whether you are guilty of a type of slander. Because a person who is contemptuous, hating, jealous or holds grudges will realize no benefits. (From Today & Tomorrow, Daisaku Ikeda)

Day 62 - Daily Gosho & Encouragement

"It must be ties of karma from the distant past that have destined you to become my disciple at a time like this. Shakyamuni and Many Treasures certainly realized this truth. The sutra's statement, "Those persons who had heard the Law dwelled here and there in various Buddha lands, constantly reborn in company with their teaches," cannot be false in any way. (WND, 217)

"The Daishonin has taught us that through gongyo and chanting daimoku we can reach an elevated state in which, while engaged in our daily lives we travel throughout the entire universe. When you worship the Gohonzon, the door to your microcosm is opened to the entire universe, the macrocosm, and you experience a great, boundless joy, as if you were looking out over the entire cosmos. You feel great satisfaction and rejoicing, a great wisdom, as if you held the entire universe in your palm." (For Today & Tomorrow, Daisaku Ikeda)