The Mind Is Its Own Place
“When we base our lives on the Mystic Law, the life states that drag us toward suffering and unhappiness move in the opposite, positive direction. It is as if sufferings become the “firewood” that fuels the flames of joy, wisdom…
On Reciting the Daimoku of the Lotus Sutra
On Reciting the Daimoku of the Lotus Sutra For us, the principles are very profound but our understanding is slight. That is, the teachings of the sutra are extremely profound and our capacities are in truth too shallow. – Nichiren…
Toward An Age of Peace
Denver June 6-11, 1996 World Tribune July 16, 2021 p. 5 DENVER “We practice Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism to make our prayers and dreams come true and to achieve the greatest possible happiness. The purpose of Nichiren Buddhism is to enable…
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…
The Real Aspect of the Gohonzon
A woman who makes offerings to such a Gohonzon invites happiness in this life, and in the next, the Gohonzon will be with her and protect her always. Like a lantern in the dark, like a strong guide and porter on a treacherous mountain…
Making Our Dreams A Reality In Uncertain Times
World Tribune June 2021 Tariq Hasan was a Ph.D. student and chapter young men’s leader when he faced dissertation writer’s block in the midst of living hand to mouth with his wife and two small children. He was about to quit…
Hope Is Within You
Hope is within us World Tribune June 11, 2021 p. 2 Where can we find hope?” When I was 19, I was earnestly seeking an answer to this question. After World War II ended, Japan was in great turmoil, and…
The Four Virtues and the Four Debts of Gratitude
When the Buddhas of the three existences of past, present, and future appear in the world, they all, all preach the importance of repaying the four debts of gratitude. And the worthy men of antiquity, the Three Sovereigns, the Five Emperors, Confucius, Lao Tzu, Yen Hui,1 and the…
Recognizing Negative Influences
Those who attempt to obstruct one’s Buddhist practice are known as “negative influences.” Since this is so, believers in the Lotus Sutra should fear those who attempt to obstruct their practice more than they fear bandits, burglars, night raiders, tigers,…
Reply to Kyo’o
Just when I was longing to hear from you once again, the messenger whom you took the trouble to send arrived. In my present circumstances, your gift of money is far more valuable than any treasure to be found on land or…
