---- DAILY ENCOURAGEMENT ----
"For what purpose, then, should we use this life, which is irreplaceable? In 'Letter from Sado,' the Daishonin teaches that by dedicating our life to the practice of Buddhism we can attain Buddhahood. To underscore the profound significance of such dedication, he first cites the 'Medicine King' (23rd) chapter of the Lotus Sutra. He then points to the examples of the boy Snow Mountains and the ascetic Aspiration for the Law -- both of whom represent Shakyamuni Buddha in past existences when he was carrying out bodhisattva practise -- to clarify that striving with an ungrudging spirit is the key to accomplishing our Buddhist practice.
"Further, the Daishonin notes that those who are prepared to give their lives will not hesitate to part with any other treasure. He is in effect saying with strict compassion to those of his followers who trembled at the thought of being persecuted and suffering such terrible consequences as having their fiefs confiscated: 'Aren't these present persecutions we are facing an unparalleled chance to give our lives in exchange for Buddhahood? Since the goal of attaining that supreme state of life is just ahead, what can we possibly have to fear?'
"This passage also conveys an important spirit that offers lessons for us today. One of these lessons, as noted above, is that simply clinging to our life will not result in attaining genuine happiness. It is by establishing a fundamental purpose and pursuing the correct course in life--ready to face any hardship this might entail -- that enables us to experience a deep sense of joy and fulfilment. If we allow ourselves to be controlled by shallow desires and begrudge our lives at a crucial moment, then our hearts will wither and only misery and regret will await us."
"Further, the Daishonin notes that those who are prepared to give their lives will not hesitate to part with any other treasure. He is in effect saying with strict compassion to those of his followers who trembled at the thought of being persecuted and suffering such terrible consequences as having their fiefs confiscated: 'Aren't these present persecutions we are facing an unparalleled chance to give our lives in exchange for Buddhahood? Since the goal of attaining that supreme state of life is just ahead, what can we possibly have to fear?'
"This passage also conveys an important spirit that offers lessons for us today. One of these lessons, as noted above, is that simply clinging to our life will not result in attaining genuine happiness. It is by establishing a fundamental purpose and pursuing the correct course in life--ready to face any hardship this might entail -- that enables us to experience a deep sense of joy and fulfilment. If we allow ourselves to be controlled by shallow desires and begrudge our lives at a crucial moment, then our hearts will wither and only misery and regret will await us."
--- DAILY GOSHO ---
"Birds and crickets cry, but never shed tears. I, Nichiren, do not cry, but my tears flow ceaselessly. I shed my tears not for worldly affairs but solely for the sake of the Lotus Sutra."
(The True Aspect of All Phenomena - The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 386)
(The True Aspect of All Phenomena - The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, page 386)
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