An account of my sister Suman's heart-warming effort to vitalize her new SGI district in New Delhi, India

I came to this district less than a month ago. After my first meeting it became clear to me what my mission here is. To wake up the district, connect members and leaders to the Gohonzon, connect them to Sensei and to ensure tremendous benefits for everyone. Since that day, I started chanting with the mind to understand the heart of everyone in the district, to be able to see what areas need to be challenged, to be able to form bonds with everyone so that we can work together towards this mission. All of this through trying to align myself with Sensei's heart. I started chanting regular hours everyday, reading Gosho everyday, reading Sensei's guidance to really truly see how I could make his vision mine. Everytime I felt low, I would study. I took guidance from my leaders from my previous Area and tried to really apply.

With every interaction with members/leaders and with every meeting, I was able to learn more about members, leaders, and generally the pulse of the district. I started struggling more and more in every way. The first study meeting had 4 members. I chanted that the next one should have 10 members at least, and it did. One day, as I was chanting I got a call from the MD chpt chief. He said he could feel my daimoku making a difference already. I had not told him that I was chanting for the district. He said we should together make this district strong and vibrant and connect all to Sensei.

On this sunday, I was visited by an active member. I knew her and had been chanting for her too. In the course of the visit, she shared about her prayers and asked me to chant for her. On her own, she also brought up the topic of how our district is sleepy and that it needs to be woken up. She suggested that we should chant together more often. Before I knew it, she had decided to bring together all active members to chant for the district as often as possible.

Today we had the first of those daimoku sessions. I am filled with appreciation for the Gohonzon. As a proof that our prayers are already reaching, an extremely inactive member also joined us today. (She has not attended a single meeting in a long time.) We are meeting again soon.

There is nothing that is not achievable when we put our heart to it and when we follow Sensei and pray wholeheartedly to the Gohonzon.

I am determined to show amazing actual proof by May this year.

- Suman Mishra

My nephew Manu's experience from Manipal in India

Experience in faith by Siddharth Manu

- Shared on January 20, 2008

Good Morning Everyone! This is Siddharth Manu, presently a 1st Year Engineering Student at MIT, Manipal. I remember the day in 1995, when coming back home from my school, I first found my mother chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. I can proudly proclaim that since that day, the life of me and my family has been transformed for eternity.
I was indeed fortunate to be brought up in this very small and cozy Soka family at Ranchi, where on Sundays we would have meetings and I would readily accompany my mother and my father(who joined a year later in 1996). As a small child, I was shy, introvert but quite bright. Initially, I just used to participate in various cultural items like dance, skit, songs etc and also chant a few minutes daily, though just for minor things as I was too small then. I grew up, receiving numerous big and small benefits, which I would happily share in meetings, though with trembling hands and reading as fast as possible to rush off from the stage. I did not know, that those days were actually nourishing the roots of a Bodhisattva, who would become a Vanguard of Soka in the future.
Being a small kid, I wanted to become a Computer engineer, as it fascinated me a lot. I started cherishing the dream of getting into IIT, as does any other engineering aspirant from India, even though just from hearsay. Through the blessings of the Gohonzon, almost always I would stand first in my class and get extraordinary praise from all my teachers and family members. I kept growing in faith and learning the wonderful virtues of being an SGI member, something so wonderful and noble. I got many conspicuous and inconspicuous benefits throughout, which I was always encouraged to share.
I passed 10th with an excellent percentage, which made me somewhat easy going. Time went by, but I couldn’t realize that I was no more a child, but an adolescent or a teenager, and the time had come for me to walk into the real & cruel world, where we have to fight for every loaf of bread. I had somewhere become a bit complacent, and I was sort of fooling myself, that since I was chanting Nam myoho renge kyo, I would get whatever I wanted, even if realities deny it. I idly thought ‘the Gohonzon will take care, I need not worry’. But faith must manifest in our daily life, or it remains a mere ideology. Gohonzon is nothing outside, but our enlightened existence within, which helps us give our best, tapping out the immense courage, compassion and wisdom of a Buddha. In classes 11th and 12th, when I was supposed to work the hardest, I didn’t and breaking the expectations of many, I could not clear IIT JEE. But it was my good fortune that I could get admission in MIT, Manipal, a decent engineering college. Sensei says we must become indispensable wherever we are and I had this place Manipal as my place of mission as a Student division SGI member.
I came to Manipal in July 2007 as one among many, as many as a thousand freshers. With my deluded mind, I could not comprehend where I belonged in those many people. And also, even though I had enrolled into this Engineering College, somewhere in my heart, I did not seem to have any more interest in engineering, because it seemed purposeless. Life seemed a struggle, a struggle that seemed to have only darkness ahead. I was petrified to see the perverted people in this college, many who had sold their conscience to drugs, drinking, promiscuity, hatred, ill and illicit mentality, vandalism, lobbying and virtually everything in the world of animality, hunger and hell. I felt in hell, surrounded by all sorts of troubles and darkness. I could not find anyone like me over there. I felt lonely, like a deer trapped by all sorts of dangers. It seemed I’m trapped in this hell for 4 long years, away from my parents, who were unaware of my life condition at that time. Also, I had no BSG (SGI in India) here till then, which had been the source of light all my life. As negativity invites more negativity with it, I started thinking that even after those 4 years of struggle, I could only get some ordinary job and will have to live away from home, working 9 to 7, a life dull and joyless. I would be just one of those billions of ordinary citizens, who face the harsh realities of life, get defeated by them, feel impotent to change the world, but just remain good enough to complain and despair. Besides these clouds of misery and loneliness, I was also faced with Engineering Branch shuffling problem which further terrified me, as I had taken some actions impulsively during this period. People with varying and distorted opinions would leave terrifying impacts on me, and I could not help feeling miserable about myself, shaken like a pendulum in every direction possible. Intellectual thinking is always shallow and partial and doesn’t stand anywhere near the discerning wisdom of the Buddha, that which we can tap from within our lives. I was giving in to the negative thoughts of people, likes a puppet in the hands of my circumstances, unaware of my true self.

Sensei (SGI President Daisaku Ikeda) says "When you face your fear, most of the time you will discover that it was not really such a big threat after all. We all need some form of deeply rooted, powerful motivation -- it empowers us to overcome obstacles so we can live our dreams.”

Suddenly, I stopped and thought - This was not the way I was supposed to be. I wasn’t helpless. I had the law and the SGI with me. I was probably the only one in Manipal who had the noble mission of Kosen rufu in my heart.

I took guidance from my Uncle who is a member of SGI-USA. He said that being SGI members, being Bodhisattvas of the Earth, we can’t possibly ‘predict’ what our lives will be like in the future. We can’t apprehend our immense potential as it lies hidden in our lives, clouded by self pity and ignorance. I was a human being with infinite possibilities in me, which I could tap out only through devoting my life to the mystic law. I also got the support and guidance of BSG members, particularly from Delhi and Mumbai, who cared for me like their own family members.
The Gosho states : “ When deluded, one is a common mortal, but when enlightened, one becomes a Buddha”. I was just looking intellectually at myself, having shallow, partial and in fact, incorrect understanding. Introspection occurs at the level of human thought, but prayers go deeper than that. I realized that I was no one ordinary, but a Bodhisattva of the Earth, someone with a great mission, the mission of Kosen Rufu, the peace and happiness of the entire world, which might sound strange and unrealistic to some, but it is a truth which only the wise can grasp. I realized that I was not a commodity, whose quality and price is determined by the trademark it carries. No matter what sort of college I study in, whatever the circumstances I may face, however bad the things may seem to be now, whichever branch I was in, I could win! And I must, being the Daishonin’s disciple.

So I stood up with all my strength, to fight the innermost devil in my life, chanting to the Gohonzon as my only resort from this hellish life condition. I started reading Sensei’s Youthful Diary, the diary which he wrote when he just joined the Soka Gakkai under his mentor President Toda. I could feel the severity of the struggle of my mentor. But his heart was full of hope for the future, even in those ruined times. The spirit of Mentor and Disciple is the essence of Nichiren Buddhism, and I decided to follow this path till the end, not just in words but in action. I had to stand up, like my Mentor did. I had to become a true disciple of his.

Since then has started a continuous struggle of Human Revolution, to polish the tarnished mirror of my life. Challenging my weaknesses to develop my self, I am striving to overcome my negativities night and day.

I started getting up as early as 5 in the morning everyday, when everyone else would be asleep, so that I could have time to chant 1 hr of daimoku everyday, followed by a day of hard work and study. Although others would suggest me to concentrate just on my studies, but only I knew in my heart that I, and in fact everyone if he tries to, can expand his life state to do whatever he wants. What is required is a really strong ichinen. Nothing is an excuse for a SGI member. I started giving my hundred percent to faith, also ensuring that I give my best to my studies as well. Whenever I got the opportunity to speak in class or to make a presentation, I would give my heart and soul to it, to convey my Mentor’s noble vision to all others. I had to struggle to break the shackles of mediocrity and complacency, which chains most of us.

But our faith helps us to develop the capacity to extract more and more out of our lives, filling us with inexhaustible vitality and freshness. I determined to not to miss any Zadenkai at Mangalore, even though I had to travel 70 kms by bus on an unpleasant road. Even if there would be an exam just the next day, I wouldn’t ever miss a meeting. I made it a point to finish my studies before Sunday so that I could attend the Zadenkai (SGI monthly discussion meeting) , without hampering my studies and in full spirit. Sometimes, I had to travel all alone, but never once did I look back or think twice. When the meeting would be over, I was fortunate enough to get to chant in the Kaikan and this filled me with tremendous hope and happiness for the future. I started praying for doing well in my course as I didn’t want to end up being an escapist. I started chanting to regain interest in engineering and to give my best. I didn’t care for the branch I was in or what I had been doing. I wanted to study well, to become an outstanding disciple. All the time in my life, I had chanted for results, but this time, I only chanted for the process, not results. Sensei says “Study is the topmost priority for a student”. I had to give my best. Also, I prayed that I could help all my friends, just like a Bodhisattva should. As I was good in Comp. Programming and fairly good in Basic Electrical Technology, the two subjects considered tough, I studied these together with my friends with a motive to help them. Never did I miss a single gongyo. I was also connected to the SGI members from across the globe, with whom I was always in sync and who would keep guiding me. I also started developing deep, strong, heart to heart bonds with people, whom I cherish, including my parents, whom I seldom confided to before. Furthermore, I was able to shakubuku (initiation to Nichiren Buddhism) friend in college, by sincerely sharing Sensei’s words and guidances, when he seemed to be broken.

In my semester internal exams, though I got below average scores in maths, I kept striving and working harder towards my goal.Earlier, I had always feared and ran away from practicing maths sums but this time, with faith as my basis, I chased my fears away squarely.

The joy started showing in my life. I could enjoy the daily struggles, each based on daimoku and study. My final exams started, and I gave my best in each of them, helping my friends in preparations, with a solemn sense of responsibility and gratitude. In the computer programming exam, when I could relax all the time, I studied with my friends till late hours for their sake.

The semester exams were over. Just before leaving for home, I got a wonderful actual proof. I knew a friend named Karan in our college itself, whose parents are BSG leaders at Chandigarh. But he was never into this faith, even though his parents always insisted him to. He even didn’t want to chant. I understood his scenario and kept sending him daimoku and would always encourage him but never taunt him for faith. On the night when I was supposed to leave for home, I sent an sms to Karan to chant with me. He said he wasn’t there, which I took as just another excuse. But 10 minutes before I was leaving, he texted me, calling me to his room, for he wanted to chant! I was overjoyed. He said he had even forgotten how to chant, but he chanted 10 minutes with me joyfully. It was a big actual proof for me and I know some day, he’ll be here with us.

When I reached home, Ranchi, I unexpectedly got the opportunity to become the Emcee in the District General Meeting there, which I did with pride and gratitude. I could also work with the YMDs and YWDs of Ranchi, learning from their struggles. These new members at Ranchi, most of whom were from very humble backgrounds made me deepen my faith and I personally strove with and thanked every one of them for this.

In Buddhism, it is said “Unseen Virtue brings Visible Reward”. When my 1^st semester results came out, I was delighted to get a GPA of 9.15 and I am among the toppers. I had done this with full participation in SGI activities and selfless work for my friends. I got another great actual proof that my Study loan got sanctioned without any hassles and in just 1 day, which is remarkable indeed.

I, now can feel the Shoten Zenjin with me at every point and everywhere. I don’t feel lonely anymore. I have developed a very strong network of genuine friends from throughout the world, all having the vision for Kosen Rufu. I also feel the struggle and importance of each and every person in my life and I’m grateful to each one of them. I am also very thankful to the BSG leaders from Mangalore and my parents, who always encouraged and guided me and continue to do so now as well. BSG Manipal is growing and we have vibrant youth division members here, who can share this wonderful life philosophy with so many young people at Manipal and work together for building invincible castles of happiness in their lives.

I would like to quote Toda Sensei here:

THE LION GOES ALONE ON HIS THOUSAND MILES JOURNEY. HE SEEKS NO COMPANION. I TOO WILL GO – TOWARDS KOSEN RUFU, I WILL WEATHER THE STORM, I WILL FIGHT OBSTACLES AND DEMONS, I WILL RIDE THE RAGING WAVES AND I WILL FORGE ON, NO MATTER WHAT. I WILL GO, I WILL FIGHT.

I can proudly say that my life has been transformed and I now have just one mission in my life, the noble mission of worldwide Kosen rufu. I will strive harder and harder each day for it, till my last breath, and beyond... for eternity!

Thank you so much

Words to live by ..

SGI President Ikeda’s encouragement to the Future Division

First, I would like you to be diligent in the practice of gongyo and daimoku so that you can lead a life of ultimate satisfaction. The Gohonzon embodies the supreme Law. No path in life is more rewarding than one based on chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo to the Gohonzon. I think you will gradually come to understand this as you grow up.

Imagine cherry tree. When spring comes, it bursts into full bloom. But if only a half or a third of its buds should blossom and be blown off by storms, then the full potential of that cherry tree’s existence is not being realized. We could say that this tree is unhappy. There are all too many people who, in a similar way, life out their lives without ever coming into full bloom.

However, a person who chants Nam Myoho Renge Kyo to the Ghonzon can realize his full ability, accumulate good fortune and enjoy happiness to the greatest possible extent, blooming and sending forth a fragrance, so to speak, ‘like a cherry tree in full bloom’.

Next you should respect and honor your parents. Both Nichiren Daishonin and Shakyamuni Buddha taught that this is important. At your age, I think, feeling responsibility towards your parents means that before everything else you do not cause trouble for them. One way you can avoid making them worry is to stay healthy and not become ill.

Another is to attend school diligently. Do no choose delinquents as your companions. Least of all, do not run away from home. Moreover, be careful not to get involved in traffic accidents. In any event, common sense in such matters is important. One could say that no one is as happy as the parents of good children who do not cause them needless anxiety. (‘Do not worry your parents’, p 31-31, Buddhism in Action, Vol 2)

J
The last of the ‘One Hundred and Six Comparisons’ says: “One must distinguish essential and theoretical, superior and inferior, in all things, even the swelling waves and the blowing wind”(GZ, p.869). This passage tells us that the essential and theoretical are to be found in our own lives, and that we must draw a distinct line between them.

“For example, when we are sleeping, we are in a ‘theoretical’ phase of our existence, but when we are awake, we are in the ‘essential’ phase. For students, whose job is to study, indulging in fun and entertainment is the theoretical, while studying hard is the essential. In addition, those who are studying with the sole aim of making money or gaining status are living only for themselves and are thus choosing a ‘theoretical’ way of life that is caught up in the pursuit of worldly things. In your case, as members of the student division, the essential is to be studying with a deep sense of purpose to develop yourselves so that you can contribute to kosen rufu.

Our real identity is that of Bodhisattvas of the Earth who have come forth to carry out the widespread propagation of the humanistic teachings of Buddhism. For us, the essential way of life is to dedicate ourselves to that endeavour. In contrast, no matter what kind of social status or position you may acquire later on, that is all just the theoretical. I hope you will never make a mistake about this.

The way that we can distinguish between the essential and the theoretical in our lives is by asking ourselves, ’Am I living for the sake of kosen-rufu and striving to do my Human-Revolution? Am I thoroughly resolved to realize my goals?’ The person who does this will triumph in life.(Jewelled Sword, p136-138, The New Human Revolution, vol.8)

All human beings have a good side and a bad side. From now on, as you grow, you will be having to choose which of these directions you will go in. If you pursue the positive side, the path of happiness will gradually open up for you. If you choose the negative side, it will inevitably eresult in a life of hellish suffering.

Therefore, at this point, whether you enjoy your studies or not, you must persevere with diligence and graduate from elementary, junior high and then high school. Afterwards, while you attend a university or work as members of society, you will come to understand for yourselves what particular path you should follow. (‘Do not worry your parents’, p 31-31, Buddhism in Action, vol 2)

Recently, we have seen a frightening tendency towards suicide among elementary, junior high and high school students. You must absolutely never take your own precious life, no matter what the reason may be. That would be the most cowardly, defeatist way you could choose. Buddhism strictly forbids destroying life, which is the vessel of the Law. Therefore, no matter how painful or disagreeable your situation may be, survive through it and triumph over it. I hope you will bear firmly in mind that this is the proper path for a human being. (‘Do not worry your parents’, p 31-32, Buddhism in Action, vol 2)

It is important that youth in particular activity seek challenges to forge and strengthen themselves. Those who enjoy material luxury from a young age and do not work hard cannot become people of outstanding character. They cannot become great leaders who protect the people. I hope that you will work hard, sparing no effort, and develop yourselves as indomitable champions, shaken or disheartened by nothing.

Young people in school should make study their first priority. It goes without saying that faith is important, but faith is something we practise throughout our entire lives. There is a certain period and age when we should study. If we don’t work hard during that period, we may fail to acquire important knowledge and skills, and we may come to regret it deeply later. Faith manifests itself in daily life. For young people in school, faith manifests itself in their studies. During this period, to devote themselves to study represents an important part of their practice of faith. (For Today and Tomorrow, SGI President Ikeda’s Daily Encouragements for July 11)

History is created by people. Each of you is a key protagonist of that endeavour. Don’t rely on others. Enact your own thrilling drama of creativity! Rise up resolutely! Break through the shell of your lesser self! A new age is opened by taking on new challenges. Advance and improve yourself day after day! If you become complacent and forget the spirit of struggle, only stagnation and defeat will await you. Resolve to become better than you were yesterday. Boldly win today! That is the formula for achieving total victory. (Soka University chapter New Human Revolution, vol. 15)

Protecting SGI from media distortion

My letter to Forbes that published a misleading article about the SGI. Forbes printed my concerns in its next issue of the magazine:

To

The Editor
Forbes magazine

60 Fifth Avenue
New York, N.Y. 10011

Subject: The article titled " Sensei's World" by Benjamin Fulford and David Whelanin in the 'International' section of September 6, 2004 issue

Dear Editor

As a business professor, I encourage hundreds of students each year to read Forbes magazine for it can be trusted. This article casts a serious doubt on the magazine's longstanding integrity. As an active member of the Soka Gakkai, I have seen substantial transparency within the organization and in my assessment its transactions are legal, accountable and morally sound. Soka Gakkai has a unique stance on Buddhism and an equally committed non-sectarian pursuit to benefit larger society comes from its religious philosophy.

I often have contributed financially to the development of the Soka University of America (SUA) from my modest income. What attracts me to SUA is a small student teacher ratio, its humanistic ideals, and an environment for students to develop a broad global and yet a humane perspective. Like other admittedly small-scale philanthropists, I get satisfaction in contributing from afar for a good cause.

On Daisaku Ikeda, I trust the inclusive tone in his writings and the assessment of world leaders like Linus Pauling. Arnold Toynbee and scores of other renowned philosophers from around the world who acknowledge Ikeda's efforts for peace, culture and education. Also, please visit the SGI website for more evidence and information at www.sgi.org .

Sincerely

Harsh Mishra

Assistant Professor
Strategic Management and International Business
School of Business
State University of New York
New Paltz, New York

The Storehouse

I experienced first hand how Nichiren Daishonin revealed his originality and breathed new life into the ancient teachings of the Lotus Sutra. Recently, while studying 'The Record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings' (Ongi Kuden), I was deeply moved by how much Daishonin desired and believed in each person becoming happy, strong, and independent.

On page 83 of Ongi Kuden, Nichiren elucidates on the Lotus Sutra passage "This storehouse of the Lotus Sutra is hidden deep and far away where no person can reach it." as follows:

"The Record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings says: The words "this storehouse of the Lotus Sutra" refer to the daimoku. The words "hidden deep" refer to the essential teaching. The words 'hidden deep' refer to the essential teaching. The words "far away" refer to the theoretical teaching. "No person can reach it" applies to those who slander the Law. Now Nichiren and his followers who chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, are not included among the people who "can never reach it."

When I first read the Lotus Sutra passage on my own, I interpreted" This storehouse of the Lotus Sutra is hidden deep and far away where no person can reach it." to mean that the storehouse is rare and very hard to access. I thought to myself," hmmm... "no person can reach it" in the passage most probably means that .it can rarely be reached or be reached by a rare person' ... just as only a few people endowed with great capability can climb the highest peak of Mount Everest." On the contrary and to my utter delight, the Daishonin clarified in his orally transmitted teachings that his disciples who simply chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo are excluded from among the people who "can never reach it". That means those who chant are accessing the secret and rare storehouse without any doubt.

This is how we in the SGI understand Buddhism which is the opposite of Nikken priesthood's distortion. The Nichiren Shoshu priesthood suggests that the priests are special and only they have access to the "secrets" thus making the storehouse a privilege of the high priest or the priests alone. Contrasting such an exclusive view, Nichiren Daishonin teaches that chanting daimoku - which is an act of faith - is what makes the storehouse accessible. We access it the moment we chant. In fact, it is our own storehouse that we access. "Faith alone is what really matters,” said the Daishonin. I was moved by his critical clarification which will forever reverberate in my heart. For a while, I had dwelled in the incorrect meaning of the passage but the clouds of delusion cleared with Nichiren's words.

If the secret storehouse is so directly accessible then why it is said that practicing the Lotus Sutra is most difficult of all. Why the 'Six easy and seven difficult acts'? Why practicing Buddhism correctly is said to be a huge challenge. I think the answer is that 'Six easy and seven difficult acts" refocuses our efforts towards a rewarding challenge. The act of keeping faith and continuing to chant and practicing correctly itself is the most real challenge of life but it guarantees ultimate happiness with actual proof of growth, fulfillment, and happiness along the way. Deepening and keeping our realization that '"Faith alone is what really matters" is an arduous undertaking and yet the most rewarding of any or all life's investment. Nichiren Daishonin made it clear that faith is critical in ensuring lasting happiness for our loved ones and for ourselves. Most importantly, he demonstrated with his own life that winning over this worthy challenge is absolutely possible. How much do I appreciate his enlightening words! How indebted I am!

It's true that we practitioners of the Mystic Law live in the realm of great fortune - as if in a town of billionaires skilled at using faith at our will to withdraw unlimited fortune from the storehouse of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. The only poor man in this town is the one who goes around calling true billionaires bankrupts .. erroneously proclaiming an exclusive ownership of a universal and inexhaustible wealth. This "free for all" storehouse contains treasures namely courage, compassion, wisdom, and action. These are treasures of higher-order, treasures of the heart which are now being aspired by even the wealthiest among all such as Bill Gates and Warren Buffet. We in this practice actually begin from this wealthy point, living and concluding life amidst these indestructible treasures.

Ah, there is that stream of clear freshwater .. 
flowing ceaselessly in the backyard of every home in this town, 
quenching everyone's thirst caused by the scorching heat of our time. 
This stream is abundant and free for all those who seek. 

As an exception, however, 
the stream deprives anyone access to its amrita, 
Those who attempt to obstruct its flow for others 
by raising proprietary barricades.

What is Soka Spirit?

Buddhism exists for our happiness, for everyone’s happiness, for everyone’s lasting happiness intheir present existence into the next. Daishonin’s teaching of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo makes it possible to become unshakably happy. The SGI movement is propagating this great humanistic teaching to people worldwide without any distinction and will continue to do so for countless generations.

Soka Spirit is an act of compassion and conviction. It is a crucial focus in our practice by which we protect SGI member’s process of becoming happy from any confusing forces and reach out to dialogue and encourage those who mistakenly have drifted into the erroneous path of the priesthood or the temple.Soka Spirit is about protecting Daishonin’s teaching from subtle yet profound distortions of Nichiren Shoshu priesthood. Finally it is about not letting the lies of the priesthood about the SGI and its three Presidents impede the growth of SGI’s undertaking of kosen-rufu. The following write-up will elaborate these 3 points.

Daishonin’s Buddhism tells us practitioners about our infinite potential to become happy. It is a detailed dairy of our own life. In its rare stance, Buddhism exists for ordinary human beings and does not subjugate them to itself. Traditionally, religions in their singular focus on the external almighty have belittled the life of its follower and encouraged deep subservience. Hence, whenever considered necessary, human lives have been violated or sacrificed in the name religion. In recent times, even the world religions have seen increased fanaticism that violates sanctity of life in the name of preserving or advancing it. The founders of world religions might not have conceived devaluing human life, but as time moved far from the founding days, contemporary followers have taken false pride in lording over its adherants out of a belief that they are doing service to their own religion. Daishonin’s Buddhism and the Lotus Sutra recognizes common mortal as a true Buddha. Hence human considerations is paramount and central to faith. In a similar vein, Soka Spirit is about deeply valuing fellow human beings. It’s about praying deeply and exerting efforts towards those who are misguided about life-affirming teachings of Nichiren Daishonin despite the fortune of encountering it in their life. With an understanding of Soka Spirit, we remind lost individuals of the correct path - reminding people of the correctness of a correct path.

I subconsciously dreaded looking at Soka Spirit issue whole-heartedly or eye-to-eye with full conviction. But I realized that beginning to address it directly is itself the source of highest benefit. Nichiren Daishonin and Shakyamuni both attested to it. In the same spirit, President Ikeda has often brought this to our attention. This wholehearted courageous battle is a decisive battle for enlightenment. Like anything else in life, we might hesitate addressing fundamental darkness despite its significance in blocking our happiness - as if we dread taking up something which we know is value-creating. We also know from our own experience that the moment we begin to realize its importance and start addressing it, that which we dreaded becomes a source of great joy once we start breaking through it. Over the defeated turf of the greatest evil lies the greatest good. More we neglect or procrastinate, more we descend into lower life condition. Even if we make a humble beginning, it is of great import and carries the promise of great happiness ahead that transcends our imagination. We possess the potential to be whole heartedly determined about Soka Spirit within a single moment and such a moment will determine the course of our conviction in future with guaranteed happiness never known before. The nature of fundamental darkness is to trick us not into not looking at it, not recognizing it nor to address it. It diverts our minds convincingly whispering that there are other important issues to care about. If that doesn’t work, it scares us into thinking that addressing it will bring greater hardship.. that we might get run over by something gigantic and confusing. But such a dark inner voice keeps us from thinking about the great benefit of looking at it head on, recognize its true devilish nature and fighting it. It is like a dark room of which we are unknown and unfounded fear makes us think that there is something dangerous aitting inside. But if we can reach out and switch the light on, all our unfounded or confusing fear can be addressed by a touch of reality. We can become enlightened about what is truly inside the room. To make a vow or a determination that I will not let any force in the universe impede the progress of kosen-rufu, I will not let anyone prevent people’s eternal opportunity of becoming absolutely happy, I will not let anyone stop people from experiencing the great light of Nichiren Buddhism, not let anyone stop this light from engulfing our lives with hues of happiness. Such an unshakable determination is the greatest source of benefit, the greatest source of building a diamond like self which life and death can only reveal but not shake.

What I learn in the SGI ...

The following are my postings to a discussion group on the Internet early into my practice of Nichiren Buddhism with the SGI:

Hi

Newsgroups: alt.religion.buddhism.nichiren
From: harsh@astro.ocis.temple.edu

Date: 1996/06/28
Subject: Hi

Hi folks

My name is Harsh Mishra and I am a PhD student in Business. I would love to join your ongoing discussion. Born and brought up in India, I belong to the province where Gautam Buddha had his activities going. I would like to share my insights on life and religion, but before that I guess I need to closely follow your conversations.

I have no reservations about receiving personal mail provided these are not too many of them to handle amidst usually a tight schedule of a research student. My regards for all of you. I hope we will become friends as we inquire further into the meaning and purpose of life.

Thanks again

Harsh Mishra


What I learn in the SGI..... part I

Newsgroups: alt.religion.buddhism.nichiren
From: Harsh Mishra

Date: 1996/11/21
Subject: What I learn in the SGI.......

Hi folks

My name is Harsh Mishra and I have been practicing in the SGI for last 5 years. I have also been a keen reader of ARBN but haven't participated much due to academic commitments to the PhD program I'm currently enrolled in. In next few postings to ARBN, I would like to share my experiences in the SGI with you all. While I welcome your comments understanding well that we may belong to different way of lives, I may be limited in addressing all due to other commitments in my daily life. But in my heart, I will appreciate the fact that someone responded wheather in a note of agreement or even strong diagreement.

I like what SGI stands for - its interpretation of a purposeful life based on the Daishonin's Buddhism. I have begun to be more humanistic and exert myself on a daily basis to support others and advance in my own life. I have also become more open to others ideas and realize religion has a purpose for human life and is not an end in itself. Born and brought up in a priest family of India, I have experience with the "Brahman" doctrines and the long term implications of such human tendencies - the intense suffering of human life in India is a witness to it. I know some of my friends in the other sects may argue on similar lines but I know too well how that line of thinking posseses a latent potential of making religion for its own sake, taking it away from its prime purpose of creating a good society. There is potential for hatred, violence, exploitation, and corrupt authority in such lines of thoughts. Knowing fully well my desire to strive for rich human values, I have learnt in SGI to have faith in what the Daishonin taught. I exert on a daily basis to be self-reflective, considerate and progressive. Keeping my eyes wide open, I haven't felt any authoritarianism or undemocratic ways in SGI while I was fully involved in the organization for last five years. Therefore, I wonder where such counter-claims come from.

I respect President Ikeda as my role model, friend , philosopher and fatherlike - not because I have been sold that image but because of an intense personal exploration of his life and what he stands for. While some people portray his statements as contradictory, I do not find any such elements and I have clear reasons to believe so. Most of all I am convinced that the Daishonin's Buddhism is in the best interest of all humanity, and I can sense it pulsing in the SGI. I also like what is understood of the word "heritage of the law" within SGI. The other interpretations bring to mind either "Brahmanism" or "catholicism" or even "zen". One has to behave in a priestly manner to be called a "priest" - I knew it all along as a matter of common sense even before joining SGI to practice Daishonin's Buddhism. I will write again...

Thanks

Harsh Mishra

What I learn in SGI...... part II

Harsh Mishra Nov 25 1996, 12:00 am

Newsgroups: alt.religion.buddhism.nichiren
From: Harsh Mishra

Date: 1996/11/25
Subject: What I learn in SGI....?.. part II

Hi folks,

Thanks for your comments. I will pick each one of them for self-reflection - the second hard thing I am learning in the SGI. To be honest and sincere is not easy given the human tendencies. Some of you may treat me as your opponent and respond circastically but I am developing some sense as to where in life such emotions come from.

Looking into my own life examples, I am well aware of the existence of such inner voices. I feel sad and empathetic; but not dettached, condescending or judgemental in a self-righteous way. In a sense, none of us participants in the internet have fully realized our Buddha nature but some of us may be on the correct path. A battle to encourage those on incorrect path to get onto a correct one has to be fought out of compassion (a feeling we ourselves know in our hearts) and not based on our affiliation or personal inclinations alone if devoid of such compassion. This is also what I learn practicing in the SGI. I can argue at length, produce weak or even baseles evidences but that will not help anyone, most of all hurting humanity.

I have respected Shakyamuni and Gandhi all my life even before joining the SGI - Shakyamuni as a legendary life-giver and Gandhi as the contemporary noble human example. Gandhi did good through his own example but was limited in providing a deeper way of life and I wondered what Shakyamuni had to say to me as a human being. Away from esoteric & exploitative rituals, mysticism or doctrinal limitations, I had a feeling that Buddhism had a profound philosophy of life and demands a person to exert hard towards a noble goal through a noble mean.

Finally, in Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism, I found precisely this. Given a very impartial consideration, I found the priesthood's understanding of Buddhism (through the published literature which I acquired and never felt hesitant to read through carefully with an open mind) deluding and below my expectation of Buddhism when compared to Daishonin's heart full of love for humanity. Even in future, I will work hard to have any prejudice or preconceived notions about any "school of thought", but I wonder if the gap of fire and water can ever be filled if the past ways are not changed. I am learning to fight for human justice as the Daishonin's disciple. It's hard yet fulfilling.

I congratulate all of you who understand this essence of Buddhism with their actions in daily life. President Ikeda, though physically remote for me, is a role model right here ---- not exaggerating please read his writings and try and understand this fellow human being even if you for some reason quit NSA due to some leader's personal weakness and arrogance. I can vouch for the integrity of Daisaku Ikeda but not so much for the leaders in the past who had not yet grasped President Ikeda's heart and went in their own tangent. President Ikeda's compromise with the priesthood was undoubtedly for kosen-rufu. But there is a limit to which one can directly attempt to correct the wrong. Even the Daishonin had to leave for Mount Minobu to accomplish what demanded wisdom at that time. I too in the past tried to help my brother rectify his way of life which was tangibly detrimental to him and his dear ones. I had to, after my long persistent efforts, go my way in a sense. Yet I am here to create an example through my own life and will never loose the wish that he change his ways and become happy. I believe he possesses the potential to turnaround, but right now he is surely messing up. I sincerely chant for him. To sum, I am learning compassion together with wisdom in the SGI.... it's difficult yet pure.

Please have a great thanksgiving....

Harsh Mishra

Thanks


What I learn in the SGI... part III

Date: Tues, Dec 10 1996 12:00 am
Email: Harsh Mishra

Groups: alt.religion.buddhism.nichiren

Hi folks

Apologise, haven't been able to catch up with the newsgroup lately. I hope everybody is in good health and spirits. Thanks for all your comments on my earlier postings. As I was growing up in India, I often heard the chanting in the following form:

Buddham sharanam gacchaami.
Dharmam sharanam gacchaami.
Sangham sharanam gacchaami.

I even remember the tune to which it was sung. It did not belong to any particular sect rather was reminiscent of the lost Buddhist spirit. In fact, in all the national official funerals, when all religions prayers were presented, this chant represented Buddhism. As you may know, the national symbol of India comes from Ashoka comprising of four lions and the national flag contained the "Ashoka Chakra" or the wheel representing the Buddhist Law. Without digressing much, my point here is that while India gradually slipped down in its Buddhist spirit, some major symbols and principles remained reminding people of their glorious past. The noble spirit of these symbols got lost from the mass consciousness and only titles were carried on without much substance. In my view, Nichiren Daishonin laments precisely this in the "Opening of the Eyes". The great religion (or way of life) got lost as it lost its spirit of sincere service, loosing to corrupt powerfuls (world of heaven), theory-loving religious intellectuals, esoteric or tantric doctrine-holders, or social good-doers who lacked deep compassion and did not exert enough in doing good to others. A similar thing may be happening now (among us mind you). My greatest prayer is that I never be a part of it. Although sometimes it does not come easy, but I am getting increasingly convinced that my affiliation with the SGI is safeguarding me from making such causes. I'm learning not to be any of those.

Coming back to the earlier reference of the ancient Buddhist chant, it refers to the "three treasures". Literally translated from Sanskrit it means: Buddham Sharanam gacchaami : [I] go to the protection of the Buddha Dharmam sharanam gacchaami : [I] go to the protection of the Law Sangham sharanam gacchaami : [I] go to the protection of the Organization "Sangha" in Sanskrit means 'organization'. For example the old name of the Bharatiya Janata Party (Indian People's Party) - one of the largest political party - was "Jana Sangha" meaning "People's organization". Having clarified the meaning of the word "Sangha" I wish to make the following two major points:

1. The "third treasure" is evidently the "Sangha" - the organization. A body of believers with a central figure who is capable by BEHAVIOR and not by POSITION - a caution against mysticism or brahmanism). The central and the peripheral believers are equal. The central figure is the mentor who leads his/her disciples to the purpose for which the organization exists. This is not a hierarchy as it may appear. It is interdependence for a common cause. Both are essential - a true democracy. A disciple who desires attention as central figure does it for a selfish reason and not towards the attainment of the purpose or mission of the organization. Instead if one focusses on becoming as capable as the mentor, the issue of assuming the central role comes as a genuine and great responsibility and not as bonus or personal glory or benefit. In one sense, the "centrality of role" is irrelevant to the attainment of purpose. The mentor, on the other hand, displays dynamic leadership towards the organizational goal. He is center of attention only because he/she is genuinely playing that central role. When one deeply understands the mentor & disciple relationship (as the Daishonin intended in the Gosho at several places) in terms of their role in accomplishing a noble mission, the hierarchical illusions vanish amidst the profundity of life. The mentor is neither internally arrogant and condescending nor subtely promotes doctrines which validates his/her own blind authority. Such religious propaganda comes from dictatorial human tendency. I never feel that in the SGI. I understand the centrality and utmost importance of President Ikeda's role in terms of what he has done/is doing/will do and not in terms of his having any mystic power. In fact the Daishonin ruled out any such interpretation of the Buddha's "trancendental or mystic power" for the latter day of the Law. Let's realize it.

2. "Sangha" or the organization having all along portrayed as the "third treasure" is essential for accomplishing something great according to the Buddhist wisdom and common sense. There are many parables to this effect. The Daishonin repeatedly emphasized the essential function and importance of a "Sangha" with united mind of faith. In fact someone may have dislike for the very concept of an "organization". That's because organizations have in the past organized for purposes detrimental to humanity. I also think that the english word "organization" has limitations and connotes notions which do not have respectable history. That is why in the Buddhist context, Sangha means "the group of harmonious believers together for a noble purpose". Let's review our own biases. In my opinion and experience, breaking all past human trends, SGI is one such group. I my vision, I see no major shortcoming. Since all organizations have to consist of human beings, it is not possible to have one which is absolutely flawless - RIGHT NOW! I would love to work for the SGI to become flawless. I believe Mr. Ikeda is doing the same.

See you all later. Take care till then.

Harsh Mishra



What I learn in the SGI.... part IV

Harsh Mishra Dec 20 1996, 12:00 am

Newsgroups: alt.religion.buddhism.nichiren
From: Harsh Mishra

Date: 1996/12/20
Subject: What I learn in the SGI.... part IV


Hi folks

Thanks for your feedback. I express only my opinion through these posts and it may contain undue influence from my limited understanding of life and Buddhism. You support in this matter is highly appreciated. While I acknowledge my limitations, simultaneously I sense a deep concern evolving deep within my life. It's a great source of happiness, satisfaction, and strength. This growing concern knows no boundaries set by particular names or denominations. It just calls for action - pure action - thoughtful action - selfless action - tolerant action free of dogma - slow yet steady action - wise and urgent yet not hasty action - action not limited to material or even spiritual pursuit - much beyond all, HUMANISTIC action based on noble spirit of Buddhism.

I feel deeply indebted to the SGI in Philadelphia for having nurtured me with parental hands of Buddhism to grasp this point a bit. I grew in a city in India which has seen numerous Hindu-Muslim riots. It was simply terror. Were all these religious(?) people insane and thoughtless? - I wondered. Probably not, rather that they had missed the basic point that "religiousity' is meant for endlessly improving the quality of human life. The rioting was contributed by all class of people - the self-righteous priests, the superstitous laymen, the indifferent and theoretical intellectuals, the spirited idealists, and the silent sufferers. Sometimes I get the taste of similar tendencies in ARBN - the taste of "dogma" in the name of Buddhism. In fact many writings do not seem to contain even an iota of faith rather based on blind belief or superstition. Last night, my roommate and I discussed the difference between 'faith' and 'superstition'. My roommate commented," Superstition is believing something or someone GREAT outside yourself, a belief that things will happen". I commended and added," Faith is sincere action - a lot of unceasing action - a humble independence; whereas superstition is inaction, the desire for easy way out, a dependence." I will continue to self-reflect which of the two - "faith" or "superstition" - I subscribe to. I pray and hope that none of us wants to be a direct/indirect cause of disaster. Let's be models of faith - that's being Buddhists. Buddhism is always non-violent - in WORDS as well as deeds - most importantly in thoughts. We can make our point in a dignified and composed manner just as Nichiren Daishonin did in 'Rissho Ankoku Ron". He refuted the incorrect teachings, but I can never sense that he was being intolerant in a foolhardy sense. The Daishonin wrote directly in most strict yet compassionate tone to only a few people in positions of authority who were ignorantly patrons of inhuman and superstitous interpretations of Buddhism. I doubt if he ever instigated any direct or face to face confrontation with any opposing school believers in the neighbourhood. In contrast to the Daishonin's model of behavior, religious animosity and intolerance seems to an underlying tone of ARBN.

Folks, we can have firm belief and yet be tolerant. I think the people who promote violence of even a subtle kind lack conviction in their own belief. I learn in the SGI to have a unitary devotion to my faith, AND share it with others in tolerant and respectful ways. To have a noble GOAL such as Buddhahood, we have to have noble MEAN too. There is no deception or trick here, it is pure wisdom. Nichiren's life may appear like a two page story suggesting overzealousness, but it is a six decade long history of tolerance and action based on a great vision for humanity.

Let's examine ourselves regardless of our different affiliations. Let me repeat here again, an act of tolerance is in no way a dilution of our conviction in what we believe is best for humanity. Let's search for a deeper meaning of the word "refutation" and "slander". In SGI, I have learnt to understand this paradox well. I love our world and I will continue improving it through my power of faith.

I wish you all a happy and thoughtful holiday. So long...

Harsh Mishra