Good Evening Everyone ~
I just wanted to let you all know that, according to today's statistics, we have accomplished 6,500 shakabuku this year, meaning that we are 500 Boddhisattvas away from actualizing the words of our Mentor and helping 7000 people begin their practice.
I also wanted to share some key highlights from Sensei's speech at the 13th Soka Gakkai HQ Leaders meeting on Dec. 6. (January 11, 2008, World Tribune). He shared some very encouraging points regarding the month of December. He begin by saying that, “The month of December is traditionally known in Japan as shiwasu, consisting of the two Chinese characters shi, meaning “Mentor” or “teacher,” and hasu (wasu), from the verb meaning “to run…” What’s important for us is to make December a month in which we can proudly declare that we have won in every struggle, accomplished everything we needed to do and have done our best throughout the year.”
Sensei goes on to share that, “One year, while thanking his disciples, Mr. Toda said: “Shiwasu mean literally means “the teacher is running.” I know you’re all busy, but I myself am running at full speed. Please all do your best for kosen-rufu.” Mr. Toda really did run at full speed for the sake of kosen-rufu, just as he said. I know how he felt. I, too, am running full speed, 365 days a year….With exuberance and vigor, please join me in running at full speed for the great vow of kosen-rufu, and so put the finishing touches on this year.”
Finally, Sensei shared a quote from the German writer Goethe towards the end of his speech that seems highly relevant as we approach the end of our 100 day campaign:
“Goethe also wrote: ‘Difficulties increase the nearer we get to the goal.”
As we run full speed toward the January 2, 2008, let’s remember that Sensei is trusting us to prove his words true to the rest of the world!!!
Sincerely,
Nathan, Kim and Vinessa
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