In this section we offer resources for the SGI Spain discussion meetings; namely: a quote that sheds light on the relevance of the efforts that crystallise on these gatherings («Globally»), a presentation of the groups that sustain them («Locally»), a passage from the writings of Nichiren Daishonin commented by Daisaku Ikeda («Advancing with the Gosho»), a «Perspective» and some «Keywords».
GLOBALLY
“How extraordinary it is for you to be deeply rooted
in your local community and dedicate your life for the sake of the people.
These steady efforts will create deep trust and become the power to transform your local community
into a paradise shining brilliantly with hope […]
You must not isolate yourself and become ‘lonely’.
By the same token, you should not leave other people behind and in ‘solitude’.
You must stay close to them in your hearts and share their worries and problems as your own.
You should listen to what they are feeling in ‘their hearts’ in the midst of their struggle.
Through helping others in this way,
in fact your own life is healed and rejuvenated.
By accepting others and encouraging them,
your life will be encouraged, and your heart opened.
In Buddhism there is the principle of
‘oneness of self and its environment’.
[…] human beings and our communities, are one and inseparable.
In the light of Buddhist teaching there is no doubt that
where there are the cheerful smiles of Gakkai members
their local communities will be illuminated without fail.
In the place where Buddhism flourishes,
the land and the people are sure to prosper too,
rather, it is our mission as Buddhists to prove this to be true in reality.” [1]
LOCALLY
“With our shared pledge, we disciples, will soar to victory now…”. The participants at the First Youth Exchange Meeting from both countries[2] shared their determination to advance towards Protagonists of Joy, by singing Eternal Journey with Sensei.
(Mailbox: prensa@ediciones-civilizacionglobal.com)
ADVANCING WITH THE GOSHO
… the assembly on Holy Eagle Peak that continues in a solemn state and has not yet dispersed.
(OTT, p. 135).
“What connects and brings us to others, no matter how far apart we may be physically or geographically? It is our vast mind or thought that embraces the entire universe, the innermost working of life itself which has limitless potential.
Nothing is stronger or nobler than the earnest wish to encourage another person, than sincere dialogue that seeks to truly communicate with others. When we wish for others’ happiness and summon forth in our lives the wisdom of the Mystic Law that functions in accordance with changing circumstances, we are certain to find a way to connect with their lives.
Our challenge is to pass on the baton of our vow for kosen-rufu across eras, generations, and national borders, and create a rainbow of hope in the skies over our blue planet.
I truly applaud and commend the youth, who have risen to shoulder the 21st century, for this great challenge they are undertaking [with the World Youth General Meeting]—an experiment to demonstrate actual proof of the benefit of Nichiren Buddhism. Proudly showing the world their spirit to never be defeated, they are making wonderful causes for the triumphant celebration of the Soka Gakkai’s centennial (in 2030).”[3]
PERSPECTIVE
In the essay from which the above quoted comment has been extracted, we can also read about the meaning of extraordinary events such as Protagonists of Joy, organised on the initiative of the SGEs Youth Division for this November 29th: “There is a parable in the Lotus Sutra that stresses the importance of moving forward. A group of travelers on a long and perilous journey are dispirited and about to turn back. The leader of their caravan then employs his wisdom, pointing to a destination that is within reach (the phantom city), bringing them joy and rest. As they recover their energies, the leader calls out to them: ‘Now you must push forward’. (LSOC7, 180) He urges them to set forth anew and advance to their true destination of the treasure land (the life state of Buddhahood). Based on this parable, the Daishonin states that as long as his disciples are together with him, they will reach the treasure land.”[4]
KEYWORDS
Engagement with the community · Vital link despite the distance · Earnest wish to encourage another person · Protagonists of Joy · Advance in unity
[1] ↑ IKEDA, Daisaku: “Let’s create flower gardens of happiness in our local communities!”, Seikyo Shimbun, 13/9/2020.
[2] ↑ In relation to this exchange activity, see also, in this issue, “De pie y de paz” and “Actualidad”.
[3] ↑ See in this issue “Punto de partida” section.