Firm In Faith At All Times
I was invited to an afternoon Buddhist get-together in my local community and am really looking forward to meeting the new neighbors. Usually we chant first and introduce ourselves with a fun ice-breaker type activity. After introductions, we explain about our Buddhism and pick a discussion topic. Towards the end, we share our experiences in faith and listen to words of encouragement from the local senior Buddhist leader. Afterwards, we enjoy light chit-chat over Japanese rice balls, cookies, egg rolls and tea or lemonade if there are lots of kids.
I’m really looking forward to my next Buddhist party and can’t wait to meet all my new friends!
Shine Brightly as Youthful Treasure Towers!
[Shakyamuni, Many Treasures Buddha, the innumerable Buddhas and bodhisattvas, and all heavenly deities] will, as a shadow follows a form, guard anyone who has firm faith in this Lotus Sutra [Nam Myoho Renge Kyo] and who remains at all times stalwart and unwavering in that faith. Think of this, think of this, never let your mind stray, be firm in faith at all times, and you will “enjoy peace and security in your present existence and good circumstances in future existences.”
Living Buddhism August 2021 p. 1 “Shine Brightly as Youthful Treasure Towers!”
President Ikeda states: “When you keep striving to fulfill the vow of mentor and disciple, even while grappling with your own problems and struggles, every single effort, every hardship, will make the treasure tower of your life shine all the brighter. The radiance of your lives will in turn inspire many other young people seeking the way, enabling each of them, too, to shine as a hope-filled treasure tower.”