Chanting Growers Group

[Guest]

President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement:

Buddhism teaches that being led astray by evil friends, (negative influences) is to be feared more than being killed by a mad elephant. A mad elephant can only destroy our physical body, but evil friends, if we allow ourselves to be influenced by them, will drag us down into a state of hell.





Lectures and articles about Nichiren Buddhism: http://sgi-usa.org/buddhism/




President Ikeda's Daily Encouragement:

Please do not forget your mother's love or the hardships she has endured for you. I am convinced that while people keep the memory of their mothers' loving faces alive in their mind, they will never go far astray. Similarly, as long as we bear in mind the Daishonin's profound compassion and live in deep appreciation of it, our lives will be illuminated brightly by the light of Buddhahood. And enveloped in the Gohonzon's great compassion, we will walk along a path that is filled with tranquillity and immeasurable joy.





Lectures and articles about Nichiren Buddhism: http://sgi-usa.org/buddhism/


Dear Friends and Family,

Enjoy the rest of today and tomorrow best you can! I sincerely hope you make time to chant during these holidays leading the way towards a new year filled with Brilliant Results for all and most importantly doing all we can to propagate The Mystic Law, The Law of Cause and Effect, The Title of The Lotus Sutra, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo!

Remember no matter what physical affliction or emotional inconsistancy begrudging you in any way shape or form, embracing Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the way to bring forth your Buddhanature and find joy happiness fulfillment in even the most difficult of times! I have been chanting The Daimoku of the Lotus Sutra, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and its changed my life. My happiness is chanting daimoku to Gohonzon and speaking with the Daishonin as we observing my mind. This meditation is essential to my continued progress and happiness without it I'm back to being just a faithless DiscoDuck and not your bud MyohoDisco! I think we all like an invincible MyohoDisco much better than a faithless gogo dancer, INVINCIBLE YOU SAY! I HAVE FAITH BABY, FAITH THAT I AM COMPLETELY PROTECTED AND THE UNDERSTANDING THAT WE BEEN DOING THIS FOR COUNTLESS KALPAS or Eons or Very very Very Long Periods of time in the space time continuum because waking up in the morning I start chanting with appreciation for another day and go out and make the best of my day each and everyday. Usually my first thoughts are appreciation towards Gohonzon and I wake up happier these days even if the going gets really rough, I'm programming really really good vibrations from my waking moments!

I sincerely admire and appreciate each and everyone of you, even if your not a member of the Soka Gakkai Family yet, just because you are serving the Buddha (by keeping the thread alive, participating with your seeking spirits and encouraging others even if your not chanting yet) and your actions and causes shall be rewarded accordingly. Just remember to reach out and make those positive life to life connections encouraging and sharing Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with our loved ones, those in need, those who seem "fine or OK", anyone and everyone. The limitless and boundless potential we adknowledge is inheirant in all humans, appreciate each life and know that this time around (this life) you already have the upper hand thanks to becoming privy to such a wealth of information that I implore you to please, PLEASE STAY TRUE TO YOURSELVES IN YOUR OWN UNIQUE WAYS! Embrace who you are, Dream Big and Execute, Live a Reasonable life, Be Strict with yourself, And if You KNOW SOMETHING IS WRONG DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!

I'm a simpleton (simple in the sense I prefer things to be not too complicated) in a complex world, even studying Buddhism can be overwhelming at times, thus Patience Perseverance and Faith are my newest tools in my life associated with my continued daily progress and desire to reach out to humanity any way possible and bring forth the Compassion and Buddhawisdom I need to go forward fearlessly spreading my appreciation for my master Nichiren Daishonin my greatest treasure Gohonzon.

Its true, I am very grateful to have Gohonzon, even though at first I felt I did not deserve Gohonzon (catholic guilt, yucky), I knew that was my fundamental darkness and accumulated bad karma putting the full court press on my person. WHEN i began to realize that nothing, not even the worse physical pain would be worse than losing Gohonzon or my faith THAT IS WHEN the TSUNAMI of my life became a WAVE I COULD HANG 10 WITH! You see, the dharma aspect is continuous and always up and down, granted via The Daishonin's guidance (paraphrased from memory, may not be exact)"those who uphold the Lotus Sutra are bound to be persecuted", I have no fear. Fear is for the weak and enhanced by evil I fully recognize! (writing that may have been a brave cause to make and I really feel good about that!)

Wanna know how I have been able to control my fundamental darkness and the abusive and treacherous appearances of the old devil king of the 6th heaven? I DO NOT TRY TO BEAT THE "BAD SHIT" OUTTA MY BRAIN ANY MORE! I DO NOT FOCUS SOLELY ON THE PAIN AND THE TORMENT ASSOCIATED WITH THAT fundamental DARKNESS. WHAT I DO IS:

1) Chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo!

2) Trust The Gohonzon!

3) Recognize that I have range of emtions and sentiments. Even if I am feeling depressed, sad and negative I ground myself with Daimoku (step 1) so I feel I also have strength, focus and happiness within me as well and a whole slew of other great stuff within me. I recognize my range of emotions and allow myself the right to be free and have faith I am in control.

4) Remember that "I am the Buddha and I make The Benefits"

HOW EMPOWERING! Even the fact that my limited vocabulary hinders me from fluently expressing my thoughts, the words Nam-myoho-renge-kyo are perfect!

Now, please go FORWARD, TAKE CARE OF YOURSELVES, HELP OTHERS, ALWAYS FAITH FIRST!!!!!

Don't be Afraid. Don't be Defeated. Faith! Victory of Gold!!



Deep Respect For You and Humanity,
MyohoDisco

P.S. Smile This is your life! Make the best of it!

 

[Guest]

Thank you Gohonzon for answering my chants today, I REALLY REALLY NEEDED A BENEFIT (about half an hour ago, Like desperately needed it).. I PUT MY FAITH IN GOHONZON and got it within 15 minutes (maybe 10).

Never underestimate the power of Gohonzon and your daimoku!

I bow in obeisance to DG and Gypsy for helping keep this forum together so I could get out this important message. Thank you.

 

[LeoNardoDaVinci]

Disco that is great to hear! You deserve the benefits and I am glad the Gohonzon did not fail you as I am sure it never will. Care to get into detail on what benefit you were looking for and recieved? Well my meeting went very well, two very kind men came to talk to me and I am very excited. I was completely open with them and they were nothing but kind and understanding, passing no judgement on me. Tomorrow from 6:30am-7:30am I am going to hopefully meet with the mens division and chant and recite the Gongyo(I am gonna have trouble with these words I can see already lol). I have work at 8:30 so I should be able to wake up early and fit it in no problem. Then Sunday at 1pm is the big group chant and they would like me to speak and he asked if he could put me down to speak and I said of course. I am very excited my brothers, if everyone accepts me as these two men did Sunday shall be quite inspiring. NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO!

 

[Guest]

Just like Tom and Pat on Page 1 of this great Thread...

Just like Tom and Pat on Page 1 of this great Thread...

Dude! Thus I heard!

Thanks and let me PassTheDoobie back to you Pat. That is the whole point isn't it? Faith in Nam Myoho Renge Kyo is action. Action is ALWAYS louder than words. What you said about the Dragon King's Daughter is the truth and basis for this forum.

Let's all sit here together and encourage each other in getting to that one thought in this lifetime, fullfilling our missions as jiyu-no-bosatsu (Bodhisattvas of the Earth). cough cough

It is so nice meeting you too!


Thomas

LEO DUDE, I BOW IN OBEISANCE TO YOU!

WOW my brother, see the chain of mystical events that precipitated from your recollection of your nitrous oxide expirience elsewhere on this forum.. *when I read that post and the words behind that man with other posts of yours I have read in the past, I knew you were inching your way closer to a major breakthrough, EARTHLY DESIRES EQUAL ENLIGHTENMENT*As a result your taking the steps you feel necessary to revolutionize your life!

FAITH IN NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO IS ACTION!

PasstheDoobie once wrote this post to VegasBuddha, I remembered that post reading yours today because that very post was one of the thousands of incredibly happy posts that depict a very similar sensation and feeling and that is the joy of recognizing another Bodhisattva of the Earth emerging from the Earth!

There has been an incredible progression in my life leading up to this point and constant changes abound I have found happiness in Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, yes even as formerly one of the earth's most cynical dudes I have also come to find I am one of the earth's most loveable, caring, considerate, passionate, emancipated, innovative, charismatic and soon to be stricter, more responsible, humbler, more thoughtful, even happier!

The change is remarkable dude, keep it flowing....

Regarding my benefit I was floored today after my first arguement with my very bestfriend, this guys been with me through alot of shit in a new chapter of our lives which started a few years ago and here we are today at the brink over some silly bullshit misunderstanding and ignorance on my part. I mean like real blind head up your ass ignorant bullshit that could really cause needless pain and harm to something really cool. As a result I go and chant and within a few minutes, dude it was water under the bridge and I LEARNED A HUGE FUCKING LESSON (ONCE AGAIN), NEVER TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED! I gotta check my arrogance at the door because when it comes to family the debt of gratitude you owe them is outlined in the Goshos which I truly need to study more in depth.

I know that many of my benefits have been totally inconspicuous, in the sense that I cannot "see" them and when these conspicuous benefits are bestowed upon me, my appreciation ebbs and flows towards Gohonzon as I know it constantly should since I believe I am in Gohonzon, I am one with Gohonzon, I chant to always have Gohonzon and fulfill my mission. Shining my mirror and bringing forth such amazing results is mind blowing at times. I can rely on Gohonzon, whereas before I felt nobody was on my side.

Heart to heart, man its lonely when you retreat inside, you feel the ramifications sometimes when you think its too late, and around this time last year, I was totally ready to understand what Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is all about. Just like you Leo, I looked into it (took me a couple months to get the ball rolling). As a result I'm growing dude, I was stunting my growth intentionally and unintentionally in a vicious cycle of bad karma. I took a preemptive strike to end this vicious cycle of bad karma and begin to Build Faith, Study and Chant.

Nam-myoho-renge-kyo freed me from an archaic and vile model of exsistence which was leading towards my alledged imminent distruction until the end of time to now A FREE EXSISTENCE DEDICATED TO FULFILLING MY MISSION AS A BODHISATTVA OF THE EARTH!

Take it from me, soon I will reach my 1st anniversary Receiving Gohonzon and I am completely convinced my mentor Thus Come One PasstheDoobie and Master Nichiren Daishonin have been and always will be working with me towards kosen-rufu and as we approach a lasting world peace, Leo just keep chanting brother!

Deep Respect,
MyohoDisco

 

[Guest]

THE TEN WORLDS
- Ichinen Sanzen -


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"The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven. --- John Milton, Paradise Lost


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It was a quiet Saturday morning when the telegram arrived. John was sitting at the kitchen table sipping his coffee and reading the morning paper. Across the table, Jane read a magazine. A lazy morning sun beamed quietly through the window .

The tranquility was broken by the front doorbell. John returned to the table with a telegram 'in hand.

As he read it, Jane saw the changes take place. John's pupils dilated and his jaw tightened. His face became flushed and his hands tightened into fists. Suddenly the whole room seemed transformed. The temperature seemed to rise, the air seemed stifling and the sun beaming through the window became a harsh intrusion. Without hearing a word, Jane knew it was upsetting news. If we freeze-frame this scene and examine it, we can observe the mysterious workings of life as it changes from moment to moment. Whatever was in the telegram obviously angered John. But it could just as well have been wonderful news triggering extreme joy, or one of a myriad different emotions.

Just what all these potentials are and how they work are defined in the Buddhist philosophy of life, ichinen sanzen, which states that a single moment of life possesses three thousand realms.

Ichinen means "one thought" or "one mind," which arises from the ultimate reality or true aspect of life that exists at each moment 'in human (and all) life. Sanzen means "three thousand" and refers to the variety of experiences life produces in relation to the environment.

John's experience of the news in the telegram changed not only his inner life but his immediate environment as well. All the variations of life experience are manifestations of the one Law or entity of life.


from the SGI-USA Study Curriculum
THE ELEMENTARY-LEVEL TEXTBOOK
PART 3: ICHINEN SANZEN
http://www.sgi-usa.org/buddhism/library/SokaGakkai/Study/Elementary/Text3.htm

Ichinen Sanzen: "A single life-moment possesses three thousand realms." A philosophical system set forth by T'ien-t'ai in the Maka Shikan on the basis of the Lotus Sutra, clarifying the mutually inclusive relationship of the ultimate truth and the phenomenal world. ichinen (one mind, life-moment or life-essence) is the life that is manifest at each moment within common mortals, and sanzen (three thousand), the varying aspects and phases it assumes. In terms of the "true entity of all phenomena" (Japanese, shoho jisso), ichinen corresponds to "true entity" - life's true nature or ultimate reality - and sanzen to "all phenomena." The expression "three thousand" is an integration of the Ten Worlds, their mutual possession, the ten factors and the three realms of existence. These figures multiplied (10x10x10x3) yield three thousand. These component principles may be thought of as the three thousand conditions according to which the life-essence manifests itself as phenomena. With this principle, T'ien-t'ai showed that all phenomena - body and mind, self and environment, sentient and insentient, cause and effect - are integrated in the life-moment of the common mortal. The pre-Lotus Sutra teachings generally hold that the mind is the basis of all phenomena and that all phenomena arise from the mind, but the ichinen sanzen principle, based on the Lotus Sutra, teaches that the mind and all phenomena are "two but not two," and neither can be independent of the other. T'ien-t'ai described the relationship between ichinen and sanzen in the Maka Shikan, which states that ichinen sanzen has two meanings: to include and to permeate. That is, all three thousand conditions of the universe are included in the life-moment, and simultaneously the life-moment permeates all three thousand conditions. In establishing this principle, T'ien-t'ai cited as his scriptural authority the passage from the Hoben (second) chapter of the theoretical teaching of the Lotus Sutra setting forth the true entity or aspect of all phenomena, which is defined as the ten factors. The realm of the environment, the last of the three realms, is indicated by the mystic principle of the True Land in the Juryo (sixteenth) chapter, completing ichinen sanzen. Thus, T'ien-t'ai established this theory of ichinen sanzen by incorporating the content of the Juryo chapter as well.
Ichinen sanzen is classified into theoretical ichinen sanzen (ri no ichinen sanzen) and actual ichinen sanzen (ji no ichinen sanzen). Theoretical ichinen sanzen is the life of common mortals of the nine worlds in which the world of Buddhahood remains dormant. Actual ichinen sanzen is the life of the Buddha, in which the world of Buddhahood is fully active and manifest. Generally, the ichinen sanzen revealed in the Hoben chapter of the theoretical teaching of the Lotus Sutra is is called theoretical, because it explains Buddhahood as a potential inherent in common mortals of the nine worlds, while the ichinen sanzen in the Juryo chapter of the essential teaching is called actual because it explains Buddhahood as a reality manifested in Shakyamuni's life. However, even ichinen sanzen of the Juryo chapter is explained only from the standpoint of effect, that is, as something the Buddha attained at a certain period in the remote past. It is not the ultimate truth per se. The Law or cause which enabled Shakyamuni to attain this enlightenment in the remote past is the ultimate truth without beginning or end. Nichiren Daishonin defined it as Nam-myoho-renge-kyo of the Three Great Secret Laws. This Mystic Law is actual ichinen sanzen in the truest sense, and when contrasted with this Law, ichinen sanzen of both the theoretical and essential teachings is regarded as theoretical ichinen sanzen. The Buddha who embodies this actual ichinen sanzen, the original Buddha since time without beginning, appeared as Nichiren Daishonin in the Latter Day of the Law. Nichiren Daishonin embodied his own life or the actuality of ichinen sanzen in the form of the Gohonzon or object of worship and taught that, by embracing the Gohonzon, all people can manifest their innate Buddhahood and attain enlightenment.
Source: Dictionary of Buddhist Terms and Concepts

from: http://www.sgi-usa.org/cgi-bin/lexicon.cgi Dictionary of Buddhist Terms and Concepts

 

[scegy]

hey you guys, and all others!
i've come across this thread that you made pass, 4 months ago but i'm very glad that i've read it!
i thought i was reading chanters so... here it is
http://www.icmag.com/ic/showthread.php?t=30605&page=2&pp=15

 

[Guest]

Thanks Scegy, say hello to Tree for me will yah, Nam-myoho-reng-kyo! Get Gohonzon!

Thanks Scegy, say hello to Tree for me will yah, Nam-myoho-reng-kyo! Get Gohonzon!

Thus the Buddha's prediction concerning the occurrence of quarrels and disputes has proved anything but false. It is like the tides of the ocean that never fail to come when the time arrives.
In view of the accuracy of his prediction, can there be any doubt that, after this period described in the Great Collection Sutra when "the pure Law will become obscured and lost," the great pure Law of the Lotus Sutra will be spread far and wide throughout Japan and all the other countries of Jambudvipa (the entire world)? (WND, 550)

(From the 11/24/2006 SGI-USA excerpts from pages 2-3)

THE COURAGEOUS AND STRONG MUST TAKE THE INITIATIVE.

Mr. Toda often said there is no room in our organization for people who do nothing but gripe and complain while utterly neglecting to work on their own Buddhist practice. Of course, it is very important to listen to and value constructive criticism and opinions. But empty complaints and excessive self-centeredness only cause distrubances in our organization, impeding our forward momentum. We should strictly admonish such behavior.

Mediocrity does not make for a great leader. I hope you will all live as courageous and compassionate leaders who boldly leap into the struggle, inspiring your fellow members, battling against injustice and broadly opening the way forward.

INCREASE THE HAPPINESS OF OTHERS

Mr. Toda explained the dignity of our realm of faith in a very accessible manner: "Bankers count money. Publishers are always calculating how many books they've printed and sold. The Soka Gakkai counts how many people it has introduced to the Mystic Law and led to happiness, while protecting life, the most precious thing on earth." As SGI members, we spend each day counting the happiness we have spread, and increasing the amount of that happiness - how noble such a way of life is.

Mr. Toda also said, "When you yourself stand up with deep and invincible faith, you can overcome everything, no matter what situation you find yourself in." Mr. Makiguchi said the same thing.

Mr. Makiguchi, also, especially treasured this passage, "All phenomena in the universe are manifestations of the Law" (GZ, 563). He taught that "faith manifests itself in daily life" and "Buddhism manifests itself in society."

He also frequently spoke of the importance of this passage: "If you propagate it, devils will arise without fail. If they did not, there would be no way of knowing that this is the correct teaching" (WND, 501). He taught "faith for defeating the three obstacles and four devils" and "faith for surmounting obstacles." He also strove to drive home to us the idea of "faith for absolute victory," citing such passages as: "Buddhism primarily concerns itself with victory or defeat" (WND, 835); and "Buddhism is reason. Reason will win over your lord" (WND, 839)

Mr. Makiguchi further placed the highest value on actual proof based on such passages as: " Nothing is more certain than actual proof" (WND, 478); and "The outcome will be decided by actual proof" (GZ, 349). Armed with firm convction, he sought to demonstrate the validity of the great principles of Buddhism within society. Today, leaders and thinkers the world over praise the correctness of his endeavors.

*** LET'S HAVE A LITTLE DISCUSSION NOW****

I enjoyed reading this article and the portion transposed above are excerpts from *SGI President Ikeda's June 4 Address Part 1 Open Your Way to Victory*

There are three discussion questions I would like to pose to all of us including me....

1) Why are difficulties meaningful in leading a fulfilling life?

2) Does fear of failure or criticism hold you back?

3)How have you overcome fear, criticisms or setbacks based on your practice of Nichiren Buddhism?

The following paragraphs corresspond with each discussion topic from my humble opinion and point of view.


1) Without the struggles I would not be happy right now. I am changing from within to really see my struggles and hardships as happiness, its so remarkable and radical. I never really understood this until recently after constantly falling victim to myself or my bullshit, but like PTD's quote in Bonzo's signature, The bullshit ends once your realize its bullshit and your in control. The struggles are happiness, which prove the words "the suffering of birth and death are nirvana". I hope to embrace this feeling everyday and right now its working so well for me I feel compelled to share it.

2) Fear has held me back especially peer pressure, fear of failure due to setting really high standards (because I was always playing 'catch up'), and criticism has been poison to the soul. But again, how could this poison not become medicine, how could the future criticism, execution of my game plan upon the 'high standards', and everyone's gosh darn opinion of old MyohoDisco really HOLD ME BACK? Not possible, those delusional demons three obstacles and the four devils really really try and derail us time and time again, but truthfully changing from within, from beyond the physical and chemical and solely into the spiritual vibrations and essentially the intangible is where I can really put things into motion BABY!

Yes its not the the things I can touch nor the vision from my eyes going forward, its really me shining my mirror in front of Gohonzon, chanting daimoku, observing myself and getting there to that point where I am on Mount Minobu discussing everything (and I do mean everything) with Nichiren Daishonin. Next time your chanting in front of Gohonzon, I encourage you to rev up or revolutionize your approach in the sense that you will at the very least reinvigorate your practice and dispel fear, slander, negativity and those pesky bad vibes coming from seemingly every direction by chanting a fighting daimoku!

3) By facing them (fears), and chanting enough to have that high life condition the next time I am practically accosted by one of these menancing forces in the universe or that devilish function dedicated to counter every bit of progress we continue to achieve, I'll have a strong faith to apply to that and every subsequent situation! Overcoming FEAR for me is realizing that fear is simply dwelling in a lower world and losing your true sense of self in the mix, a sense of self that elapses physical and chemical boundaries. We are constantly reborn in the company of our teachers, what does that mean to you? It means to me that the answer of fear is, its a glitch in this system of life hellbent on infecting and derailing kosen-rufu but in heart HOPE TRUMPS FEAR everytime and THAT IS THE LAW. with respect to setbacks and criticism I have found in the past that my life has been a succession of setbacks until I started to chant and I began to realize those setbacks where in fact essential lessons tailor made to my unique experience and fully intended to enhance my future and or lead me to enlightenment. I personally like how Makiguchi taught "faith for defeating the three obstacles and four devils" and "faith for surmounting obstacles" and also "faith for absolute victory", I have been saying it and its because I believe it.

with my faith I'm approaching absolute victory!

Like the roar of the lion, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo!

Please feel free to join me in the discussion topics, I know we normally do not do this but I felt it maybe something we could just take part in as a group while we go forward and do all we can for kosen-rufu. FLY HIGH!

deep deep respect and love,
myohodisco

 

[Guest]

Oh you know? I think gongyo is as gongyo does.

(By the way, for those unfamiliar with the practice of Nichiren Daishonisn's Buddhism, Goygyo is the process of recitation of specific sections of the 2nd and 16th chapters of the Lotus Sutra, accompanying prayers pertaining to our daily life and the establishment of World Peace.

We do Gongyo in the morning and evening. Until recent years, the process was very time consuming for many, with five prayers in the morning, three in the evening. Each prayer requiring the recitation of the above mentioned areas of the Lotus Sutra.

As a modern movement, and out of compassion for the efforts and realities of 21st century practitioners, the decision was made to abbreviate the neccessity of all of that Sutra chanting for the purpose of reinvigorating the focus of chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo as much as possible each and every day.)

For my whole practice, gongyo was always the biggest challenge. I think that coincides with having a stoner, hippy dude karma, though thanks to Nam Myoho Renge Kyo, even with that kind of personna, I was able to climb the corporate ladder and start my own companies by the time is was in my very early thirties, successfully.

In my experience, the essence of Gongyo is it's function of glue to you and a daily practice. My experience was always that the biggest downside of missing gongyo, was that the cause would make you miss it again. I think it is really really difficult to be consistently chanting every day without gongyo being part of that process.

I was happy that they went to the new format, because I had been following it for years. You know, no one will ever discourage you from doing five full prayers in the morning and three in the evening. Given the freedom, do you know of anyone still doing so?

And yes, I will never forget the first time I heard it. I walked into my first discussion meeting after Gongyo had started. As I heard the beautiful music of the Lotus Sutra being shared and spoken sonorously, among a diverse gathering of completely different types of people, it made me so happy! When I heard what I was hearing I said to myself, " I have got to learn how to say this! If I do, my friends are going to know I am into some heavy shit then!"

And from that day forward, I have been doing shakubuku!

T

Just did my morning Gongyo and I feel like today will be a great day for kosen-rufu! Last night at dinner with friends I met a former Nichiren Shoshu member whom I encouraged to chant and shared some very nice words with. I will be encouraging her to chant more in the near future as I also work on another shakubuku in that same house, which happens to be a good friend of mine, that has proven The Law to himself by chanting for things including me driving 4 hours just to visit him (in the middle of a huge storm but I really felt "compelled to drive up there" and when I got there he couldn't believe it and he told me he actually chanted for me to drive up there and was blown away it actually worked (I was sick it was late, my wife really wasn't in the mood until the 'final moments before the trip' when we finally left..) become reality!

Have no fear, and go Forward Today and everyday!

Like the roar of the Lion, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo!

 

[LeoNardoDaVinci]

Well I am off to my first Soka Gokkai meeting and they have asked me to speak so I prepared a short 5 minute speech and I touch on my drug use and how it took me to a low point but also to buddhism and a deep belief in it because of the drug use. Which is why I had to touch on it. I read it to my sister and she said it is good but I almost started to cry a few times because it is so emotional for me because I feel such liberation now. I am chanting for strength and good fortune at this meeting, 45 minutes folks wish me luck brothers. I will touch on your 3 questions when I return easydisco, NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO!

 

[Bonzo]

FAITH, FAITH , FAITH, LEO!!!!!! You can do it, YOU ARE DOING IT!!!!

You are a huge inspiration to this thread and everyone here!!!!!!

peace my friend

bonz







>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Nam myoho renge kyo>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

 

[LeoNardoDaVinci]

Guys my life is finally going in just the right direction. I knocked them dead! I was nervous but they loved me and when they applauded I could see it on their faces, the love, the smiles, the open minds, the instant acceptance into a huge family. Many people came up to me afterwards saying they got goosebumps and were very thankful for my experience and that it was amazing how I came to find Soka Gakkai etc. I was so humbled and so happy at the same time. I thanked these people for there kind words and acceptance. Before giving my experience we had chanted and then recieted Gongyo and immediately a wonderful young man who I see will be a great new friend and spiritual guide came and sat next to me and introduced himself and I told him my story and how I didn't yet really know the Gongyo and he had me follow along with him in his book while they chanted and I tried to keep up(it was difficult for me and they were chanting fast). He assured me that I did very well for my first reading and that I would pick it up easily. Others shared experiences as well including the young man who befriended me. These were very very touching to me and I have a more possitive outlook right now then I have EVER had in my life. We also watched a great video on Soka Gakkai that was very informative. At the end a question was asked by a guest "why do you need a Gohonzon?" The woman who was asking for questions answered by giving her experience of having first asked that question herself and she made it so clear and it rang so true to thoughts and feelings I had that joy eminanted from me and I had to hold back tears of joy(I have been very emotional lately due to my new found happiness its just amazing how easily I am touched by life now, even the smallest things are so wonderful to almost bring tears). I told her after how inspirational that had been to me and she praised my speech and let me know how wonderful she felt to cross paths. There was a small pot luck with wonderful food and I talked to quiet a few people all of them wonderful Buddhas. The young man who had taken me under his wing so to say talked to me during the potluck as well and we exchanged numbers and said we would meet later in the week to chant and so he could help me with Gongyo and we also talked about me getting my Gohonzon on Dec 10th! Life is amazing my friends. Nam Myoho Renge Kyo! Oh and next meeting is next sunday oh how I will be there(hopefully with a better grasp on Gongyo!)

 

[LeoNardoDaVinci]

1) Why are difficulties meaningful in leading a fulfilling life?

2) Does fear of failure or criticism hold you back?

3)How have you overcome fear, criticisms or setbacks based on your practice of Nichiren Buddhism?

1. Without difficulties we do not have "good times" To know a good time you must understand difficulties. From great difficulty comes the possibility for great growth and great possitivity if you can learn from it and apply it to the betterment of yourself.

2. Yes, I did not make it to saturday morning Gongyo and chanting because I was worried I wouldn't be able to keep up with the Gongyo and I didn't want to throw off the rythm and hold others back. This was a fear of criticism and it held be back. I am also held back by my fear or criticism in my relationship with people, I am not super outgoing and am often afraid to just approach people, this is also true with meeting women. This stems from my low self worth and feelings of how I appear physically(long hair, beard)(but this is how I am comfortable, I like looking like this but I fear that others do not like me looking like this and it holds me back from approaching them). Today I conquered alot of that when I gave my speech today at my first SGI meeting. The reaction shows me that I AM worthy and I AM a great person with much to give.

3. I have touched on this a little in number 2 and throughout the thread as a whole so I won't reiterate that right now. Pretty high right now and getting a little sleepy from typing.

Nam Myoho Renge Kyo!

I recall being told that today was the anniversary of the first SGI presidents death? Makiguchi? And also the anniversary of the establishment of SGI, this confused me a little so I may have got it wrong because I was unsure how one could be president of SGI before it was established? To any event Rip Makiguchi and if it is the anniversary of the establishment of SGI what a wonderful day and celebration of that I took part in today! Today has been quite energizing and uplifting

 

[Guest]

JAM ON WITH YOUR BAD ASS SELF! Way TO GO LEO!! I BOW IN OBEISANCE TO YOU!

JAM ON WITH YOUR BAD ASS SELF! Way TO GO LEO!! I BOW IN OBEISANCE TO YOU!

Today I conquered alot of that when I gave my speech today at my first SGI meeting. The reaction shows me that I AM worthy and I AM a great person with much to give.

Nam Myoho Renge Kyo!

DUDE THANK YOU! THANK YOU SO MUCH LEO, I chanted alot this weekend and my wife joined me for a alot of the daimoku and I had this thread and its members in my heart and I felt a huge breakthrough coming!

You'll be recieving Gohonzon soon and this is wonderous!

Your a shining example of the law, I made a determination to chant and continue to chant for every member to join this thread to receive Gohonzon, and after Scegy and Tree receive theirs then there is Fallen Respect PersonalMeds DG Gypsy CaptCrip Delta Desi Dig Rasta DeepChunk marley (anyone I missed) and your on your way Leo, alot of US! Please believe I am chanting for all of you and going forward in my life its a great feeling to know that throughout the world we are all working for kosen-rufu in our own way as Bodhisattvas of the Earth and if your not working for world peace in your own unique way, GET BUSY!!!!

Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the key to unlocking your happiness!

The following is in response to your question on the significance of 11/28 in SGI...

On Nov. 29, 1991, the Soka Gakkai received a notice of excommunication, dated Nov. 28, from the priesthood of Nichiren Shoshu.

The Following day, Nov. 30, at a Soka Gakkai leaders meeting, SGI President Ikeda referred to Nov. 28 as the Day of Spiritual Liberation, or "spiritual independance day" for the Skoa Gakkai and the SGI. It signaled a fresh era of unprecedented development.

Like the founders of our own nation, who fought both religious and political tyranny to establish a new open and democratic society, the members of the SGI, on Nov. 28, 1991, through their persistent, courageous struggle gained spiritual independance (from the Nichiren Shoshu priesthood). And since that day, the SGI and its members, together with President Ikeda, have soared to new historic accomplishments, which will be forever recorded in the history of Buddhism.

from the November 24, 2006 World Tribune
page7 (first two paragraphs and the last one) of the article titled
Nov. 28, 1991: SGI Day of Spiritual Independence

Further research from this webpage... http://www.sgi-usa.org/buddhism/resourceguide/resourceguide.html#section7
SGI Resource Guide

Break in Relations Between the
SGI and Nichiren Shoshu
Just as in other religions with strong lay organizations, conflict and tension existed between the Nichiren Shoshu priesthood and the SGI. A defining event occurred in November 1991, when the high priest of Nichiren Shoshu excommunicated the entire lay association of the SGI, effectively banning the 12 million SGI members from participation in religious activities sponsored by the sect. The clergy also refused to allow new members of the SGI to receive the Gohonzon, which is central to the religious practice instituted by Nichiren. [28]

Although the causes for this separation are complex, and the context colored by Japanese history as well as by traditions within the Nichiren Shoshu sect, the conflict stems from the priesthood’s claim that the lay organization must submit to the absolute authority of the high priest and, further, to the superiority of the priesthood as interpreter of Nichiren’s teachings. The SGI took the position that the priesthood had lost contact with the basic egalitarian spirit of Nichiren’s teaching. This, the SGI claimed, had led away from Nichiren’s injunction to work compassionately for the happiness of all humankind, toward an insular doctrine of priestly heritage that would secure an authoritarian, clerical control over the religious practice and activities of all lay believers—including their right to share their faith with others.

In his book on the development of the SGI in Britain, sociologist Bryan Wilson offers this brief commentary on the situation:

The priesthood was a conservative body, small, secluded, and with horizons narrowly circumscribed by the centuries of Japanese insulation from the external world. Soka Gakkai International was a movement of revitalization, adapted to modern conditions, pursuing from the outset a policy of expansive growth, and quickly acquiring an international clientele and orientation. The priesthood was characteristically authoritarian, status conscious, and hierarchic; the lay organization was populist, egalitarian, and unwilling to concede the sort of status differences, which were endemic in conceptions of priesthood. [29]

The SGI maintains that Nichiren recognized no distinction in capacity or faith between priests and lay persons, and that his fundamental intent was to encourage all people who sincerely seek to follow his teaching. As a result, there seems to be a permanent rupture between the SGI and the Nichiren Shoshu priesthood—they operate as fully independent entities. [30] Given this reality, the SGI independently began to issue the Gohonzon to its members in late 1993. The Nichiren Shoshu priesthood insists that the SGI has no right to disseminate or interpret Nichiren Buddhism or provide the means for individuals to take up their practice of Buddhism, while the SGI continues its worldwide efforts to inform people about this faith and to promote mutual respect and understanding among individuals and communities.

[28] In response to these actions, virtually the entire membership of the SGI signed petitions requesting that the high priest resign.

[29] Bryan Wilson and Karel Dobbelaere, A Time to Chant: The Soka Gakkai Buddhists in Britain (London: Oxford University Press, 1993) 233.

[30] In Japan, reformist priests have supported the SGI and aligned their temples with the position of the lay organization. Beyond this, the schism has prompted a dramatic increase in the freedom with which the SGI is able to pursue interfaith dialogue on peace, human rights and environmental concerns.

 

[Babbabud]

So happy to hear you made it to a meeting Leo . Way to go bud!!
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo!!

 

[Guest]

Daily Encouragement:

Faith is the ultimate essence of intellect. Through the practice of correct faith, the intellect comes to shine. Intellect without correct faith lacks a firm anchor in the soil of life and eventually becomes disordered. This prompted the first Soka Gakkai president, Tsunesaburo Makiguchi, to remark that many modern thinkers were suffering from what he termed "higher psychosis." Faith without intellect, meanwhile, leads to blind faith and fanaticism. Faith or intellect alone-one without the other-is unhealthy.


Lectures and articles about Nichiren Buddhism: http://sgi-usa.org/buddhism/

 

[LeoNardoDaVinci]

Daily Encouragement:

Faith is the ultimate essence of intellect. Through the practice of correct faith, the intellect comes to shine. Intellect without correct faith lacks a firm anchor in the soil of life and eventually becomes disordered. This prompted the first Soka Gakkai president, Tsunesaburo Makiguchi, to remark that many modern thinkers were suffering from what he termed "higher psychosis." Faith without intellect, meanwhile, leads to blind faith and fanaticism. Faith or intellect alone-one without the other-is unhealthy.


Lectures and articles about Nichiren Buddhism: http://sgi-usa.org/buddhism/

What a wonderful Daily Encouragement to wake up to after doing gongyo EVERY quote I see written here dealing with Nichiren or the SGI rings so so so true to me when I read it it is like it clicks along with whats inside of me and I can instantly relate the quotes I see to my life and how I have felt recently and that is so true without Faith intellect is dangerous atleast it has been for me. Now that I have faith in the Lotus Sutra I feel like a warrior with the strongest of armor so strong that no man and no god can take me down before I complete my quest to awaken every mind on the planet. This is my purpose I see. To help the world, this is what I have always been looking for, anyone who will listen is going to hear of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo from me.

 

[SoCal Hippy]

Leo, welcome to the the life-world of living in the realm of a Bodhisatva of the earth and being able to connect to the mystic Law of all things-the main thing being US! Congratulations my friend on such a beautiful beginning; but then actually it is just a continuation of your mission right here-right now. I believe many people will now be able to find the Law of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo in their own lives because of you! So wonderful in the fortune you are creating. This thread has life and tremendous positive influence. My thanks to be able to contribute and participate with all of you.

ps: don't get frustrated too much with Gongyo as just the effort to try to do it correctly is the cause you are looking for; not how accurately you are saying it. As time goes on you will continue to perfect it which is always the case even with persons that have been chanting for a long time.

 

[Guest]

The Daishonin's Golden Words are my Guide as I climb the mountain of this life...

The Daishonin's Golden Words are my Guide as I climb the mountain of this life...

Gosho Excerpt:

"Everyone believes in those Buddhist teachers who were revered in their own time. But the Buddha enjoins us in the Nirvana Sutra as his final instruction, "Rely on the Law and not upon persons." The Buddha taught us to rely on the sutras if the Buddhist teachers should be in error. You say those teachers could not possibly be in error, but between the Buddha's golden words and your personal opinion, I am committed to the former."

The letter of petition from Yorimoto,
(The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, pg# 805)
Written to Shijo Kingo on 25 June 1277 from Minobu
http://sgi-usa.org/buddhism/library/Nichiren/wnd/concord/pages.view/805.html



Hello Socal!

Thank you Leo, Socal is right so many new people will find Nam-myoho-renge-kyo in their hearts through your continued efforts and practice. If something happens along the way, you have your faith to fall back on, its your greatest weapon Leo. Let's keep doing our best for kosen-rufu each and everyday, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo makes me happy and I derive all my motivation from knowing this life I'm living is dedicated to The Law and I look forward to suffering what there is to suffer and enjoying what there is to enjoy!

Like the Roar of the Lion, Nam-myoho-renge-kyo!

 

[Guest]

President Tsunesaburo Makiguchi and President Josei Toda

President Tsunesaburo Makiguchi and President Josei Toda

Tsunesaburo Makiguchi




Tsunesaburo Makiguchi (1871-1944) was a reformist educator, author and philosopher who founded the Soka Kyoiku Gakkai (the forerunner of the Soka Gakkai) in 1930. His life was characterized by confrontation with repressive authorities. As a teacher known for his warmth and consideration, he strove to introduce a more humanistic, student-centered approach to education. He fiercely opposed corrupt educational practices and was forced into an early retirement as a result.

Later, he was imprisoned for opposing the policies of the Japanese militarist regime. He died in prison from malnutrition at the age of 73. In recent years his humanistic educational theories have been attracting increasing international attention.

Educational Ideas
For most of his life Makiguchi's central concern had been to reform the education system that, he felt, discouraged independent thinking and stifled students' happiness and creativity. He believed that education should serve the happiness of the students, rather than the needs of the state.

His educational ideas, and his theory of value-creation (soka), which underlies his pedagogy, are explored in his 1930 work Soka Kyoikugaku Taikei (The Theory of Value-Creating Pedagogy).

Makiguchi's views completely contradicted the logic of the militarist government, which sought to use education to mold obedient, unquestioning servants of the state.

Religious Revolution
In 1928, at the age of 57, Makiguchi encountered Nichiren Buddhism, finding within it a holistic philosophy that accorded with his own thinking. Two years later, he and his colleague Josei Toda founded the Soka Kyoiku Gakkai (Society for Value-creating Education), the predecessor to the modern day Soka Gakkai and the SGI.

Originally a small group of educators dedicated to educational reform, the Soka Kyoiku Gakkai gradually developed into an organization with a broad-based membership focusing on the propagation of Buddhism. This happened as Makiguchi and Toda became increasingly convinced that Nichiren's philosophy, with its focus on the transformation of society through the individual's transformation, was the means to achieving the fundamental social reform that they had been trying to accomplish through their educational efforts.

Arrest
Meanwhile, in order to garner popular support for its war campaign, the Japanese government imposed the religion of state Shinto, with its nationalistic mythology and ideology of emperor worship, on the populace. It also grew increasingly intolerant of dissent. Makiguchi staunchly opposed these repressive actions.

In 1943, Makiguchi and Toda, along with 19 other leaders of the Soka Kyoiku Gakkai were arrested and imprisoned. In 1944 Makiguchi died in prison of malnutrition, refusing to the end to compromise his beliefs.




"What then is the purpose of national education? Rather than devise complex theoretical interpretations, it is better to start by looking to the lovely child who sits on your knee and ask yourself: What can I do to assure that this child will be able to lead the happiest life possible?"

-- Makiguchi



Research Papers / Essays:

Education as Transformation (SGI Quarterly, April 2001)

Tsunesaburo Makiguchi - Founder of Soka : Value-Creating Education (Living Buddhism, August 2000)

Makiguchi Project in Action - Enhancing Education for Peace by Dilma de Melo Silva (Journal of Oriental Studies, Vol. 10, 2000, Special Issue)

Educational Counseling -- On the Front Lines of Education by Andrew Gebert (SGI Quarterly, April 2000)

from: http://www.sgi.org/english/SGI/makiguchi.htm

------- NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO -------​

Josei Toda




Josei Toda (1900-1958) was an educator, publisher and entrepreneur who, as second president of the Soka Gakkai, revived the lay Buddhist organization after World War II, building it into a dynamic, popular movement.

Encountering his Mentor
Arriving in Tokyo from the northern Island of Hokkaido in his early twenties, Toda found a teaching post at the school where Tsunesaburo Makiguchi was principal. Impressed by Makiguchi's educational ideals, he soon became his protégé. In 1928 he followed Makiguchi in his decision to practice Nichiren Buddhism. The two later co-founded the Soka Kyoiku Gakkai, forerunner of the Soka Gakkai.

Imprisonment
When Japan entered World War II, Toda and Makiguchi were arrested and imprisoned for opposing the militarist government's policies.

In prison, Toda devoted himself to the practice and study of Nichiren Buddhism, gaining a profound grasp of its principles. His efforts brought him to a clear realization that Buddhahood is a potential inherent in all life, and deepened his confidence that all people could manifest this enlightened life condition through practicing Nichiren's teachings.

Building the Soka Gakkai
On his release from prison at the end of World War II, Toda began to reconstruct the collapsed Soka Kyoiku Gakkai, renaming it the Soka Gakkai (Society for the Creation of Value).
Toda taught that through Buddhist practice and inner-motivated change, or "human revolution", all people can change their destiny for the better. This message resonated powerfully among the many people suffering from poverty, illness and other challenges in the chaos of post-war Japan. Moreover, Toda's unshakable confidence in the power of Nichiren's philosophy and his ability to translate the profound concepts of Buddhism into practical guidance for daily life re-ignited people's hope and courage.

By the time of his death in 1958 Toda had built an organization of nearly one million members and laid the foundation for the dramatic spread of Nichiren Buddhism abroad.

Peace Legacy
Toda is also remembered for his uncompromising stance against nuclear weapons, which he termed an absolute evil that threatens people's inalienable right to life. He urged the youth members of the Soka Gakkai to work for the abolition of nuclear weapons. This stance, which he declared in 1957, is considered the inspiration for the SGI's peace activities.


Research Paper:

Josei Toda - Man of Conviction (SGI Quarterly Apr 2000)


from : http://www.sgi.org/english/SGI/toda.htm

 

[Guest]

Gosho Excerpt:

"Buddhism spreads according to the time and the people's capacity. Although I may not be worthy of this teaching, I expound it because the time is right."

This is what I heard,
The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, pg# 861)
Written to Soya Jiro Hyoe-no-jo Kyoshin on
28 November 1277 from Minobu
http://sgi-usa.org/buddhism/library/Nichiren/wnd/concord/pages.view/861.html




Daily Encouragement:

Nichiren Daishonin discusses the meaning of the Chinese characters for the word benefit (Jpn kudoku), as follows: "The ku of kudoku means to extinguish evil and doku means to bring forth good" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 762). We fight against those who try to destroy the True Law. That struggle purifies us and brings forth benefits in our lives. Justice or happiness without a battle is just an illusion. Thinking that happiness means a life free of hard work and effort is fantasy. (June 5, 1996)

Events:

SGI Day of Spiritual Independence 1991:
Nichiren Shoshu excommunicates 12 million SGI members worldwide.





Lectures and articles about Nichiren Buddhism: http://sgi-usa.org/buddhism/