Daily Guidance

---- DAILY ENCOURAGEMENT ----

"Though blind and deaf, the American author and social activist Helen Keller (1880–1968) made everlasting contributions to society and the welfare of others. Let me share a brief passage from an unforgettable interview with her:

Q: Who are the most unhappy people?
A: People who have nothing to do.
Q: What brings the greatest satisfaction?
A: Work, accomplishment.
Q: What have you enjoyed most in life?
A: Overcoming difficulties.

This is an essential message of life that resonates strongly with the Daishonin's Buddhism. True happiness in life is found in struggling to accomplish something of value. 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. That's the magnificent record you should strive for."

--- DAILY GOSHO ---

"People have regarded the two of you as surely having already yielded, but you have acted in an admirable manner. You probably think this is solely due to the power of Shakyamuni Buddha and the Lotus Sutra. I believe this also. No words can express the promise of your next existence. From now on, too, no matter what may happen, you must not slacken in the least. You must raise your voice all the more and admonish [those who slander]."
(Kamatari Suggests the Fashioning of a Buddha Image - Gosho Zenshu, page1089)