Taos Writer Lost in Blizzard

Spiritual Story by Sandy Penny

I left Houston, Texas, on a spiritual quest in the balmy fall of 2005 and, after much wandering, found myself in Taos, New Mexico in the cold white month of January 2006. I was working on an intriguing spiritual writing project with hospice doctor, John Lerma about people who see angels when they're dying.

Several times I tried to leave Taos, but the Taos Mountain had decided I was staying, and the weather cooperated with the mountain to keep me here. At the end of March, I took a little jaunt up to Valley View in Colorado, having always wanted to be at the hot springs when it was snowing. It was a lovely place to work on my angel book. After a few days, the weather seemed to be worsening, with five or six inches of snow on the roof of my car every morning, so I decided it was time to go south.

I intended to go down to Albuquerque and re-evaluate staying in Taos. I just really was not used to the cold weather and the snow after 35 years in Houston. As I headed down 285 south, a huge black raven-like cloud appeared in the distance, flying directly toward me. It was kind of mesmerizing. It seemed as if it touched the ground and flew back into the air. I suddenly feared there was a tornado in that cloud formation, and recorded a quick message to my kids about how much I loved them, just in case.

As I headed toward the giant raven cloud, it headed toward me, and suddenly I was under it, and although there was no tornado, the snow surrounded me and whitened my entire existence as if I had died and was in the midst of the clouds before the light appears. I could no longer see the road, and I could barely distinguish where the side of the road dropped off. A mightly wind hurled me across the road, and when I tried to steer into it, relented and I skidded perilously toward the drop-off. I quickly corrected and slowed down even more. It was the closest thing to a blizzard I had ever seen.

I was alone. I slowly dialed the radio and found only scratchy blankness. I set the automatic search and forgot about trying to get a station. I flipped open my cell phone. Nothing there either. I was deeply alone and did not know what I should do in this case. I could not pull over because I could not tell where the drop-offs were, and I was afraid my car would run out of gas while I ran the heater, and I would be found frozen in a hill of snow. So I inched my way forward at about five miles per hour. I could not see what lay ahead of me, and I prayed no one was stalled on the road because I could not have stopped by the time I saw them. I just kept moving forward even though I had no idea where I was headed.

After hours of inching toward my impossible destination and battling with bouts of wind, I had not made much headway, and my only company was an occasional raven clinging to a fence post or walking along the ground, their ominous blackness directly contrasting with the pure white surroundings. I was so scared that I began to cry and plead with whatever power there is to help me get somewhere safe. The silence was truly deafening. I recorded a few more goodbyes on my digital recorder. Finally, the radio blared, and I was blessed by the sound of a human voice. The announcer read off the road closings, and the road I was on, in my little red Mazda Protege, was closed to all but those with chains. I barely had decent tires. Oh well, how could I have known, with no radio and no cell phone?

For the life of me, I couldn't figure out what to do. I knew the altitude before I got to Espanola was higher than where I was now, and likely more snowy and frozen. At long last, I saw a turnoff. I was at Tres Piedres, the point where they were telling people not to continue south. The only turnoff was left and it headed directly to Taos. I wondered if I could even make it there as the road was deep with snow. The radio announcer said 32 inches had fallen in the last few hours. Wow, what was I doing out here?

I noted a few tire tracks heading toward Taos on Hwy 64, so I ventured forward. I knew my friend Madeline would let me stay at her house again. I at least had shelter there. I drove in the tracks of trucks that had gone before me and safely crossed the slippery Rio Grande Gorge bridge. I knew I could probably make it the rest of the way into town, and my mood lightened a bit. After OBL, the old blinking light, I picked up cell phone reception again and called Madeline. When she answered, the stress finally let go and I blubbered my plight to her. Although she was currently in Houston, she called her realtor who delivered a key to me while I enjoyed a very belated breakfast burrito smothered in Christmas chile, red and green mixed, at Michael's Kitchen and told my story to a few strangers who had also just completed their harrowing drives. Coffee sure does taste good when you come in from the cold.

After that, I stopped struggling to leave and just accepted my fate. Like many others, the Taos Mountain had claimed me for its own. I had no choice; I might as well enjoy the view.

Daily Wisdom - If only you chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, then what offense could fail to be eradicated?

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, March 23, 2012:

If only you chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, then what offense could fail to be eradicated? What blessing could fail to come? This is the truth, and it is of great profundity. You should believe and accept it.

Conversation between a Sage and an Unenlightened Man
Recipient unknown; written in 1265

Daily Wisdom - Flowering and Bearing Grain

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, March 22, 2012:

If a tree is deeply rooted, its branches and leaves will never wither. If the spring is inexhaustible, the stream will never run dry. Without wood, a fire will burn out. Without earth, plants will not grow. I, Nichiren, am indebted solely to my late teacher, Dozen-bo, for my having become the votary of the Lotus Sutra and my being widely talked about now, in both a good and bad sense. Nichiren is like the plant, and my teacher, the earth.

Flowering and Bearing Grain
Written to Joken-bo and Gijo-bo in April 1278

Sun Loses Heat, Moon Keeps His Cool

Spiritual Story by Greg Miller

The sun and the moon were discussing their respective jobs and both
were somewhat upset.

"It's so hot in my corner of the Universe!," griped the
sun. "Thousands of degrees, millions of degrees, what's the
difference!? I would sure appreciate a little relief!"

"I'm with you, Old Friend," replied the moon. "But my problem is that
my temperature is a little on the cool side - at least for me. I wish
I could be much hotter than I am."

"What's all the whining about?" asked the Lord. "I created you and
gave each of you the qualities you need to serve me and mankind. Why
not be patient and let me work my will through you?"

"Why not let us switch places for just one day?," asked the
sun. "Then we'll know if we were assigned the right jobs."

"That's right," echoed the moon. "And we'll never complain again
about our jobs!"

"All right," agreed the Lord. "Tomorrow, you will exchange places for
one day. Then you'll see that I assigned each of you the correct job."

The following morning, the sun and the moon exchanged places. "Wow!
This is the life!," exclaimed the moon. "I think I will really like
this day-shift job. I can go to work early, leave work several hours
earlier than usual and still have plenty of time to relax."

The sun was equally thrilled with his new one-day assignment. "I can
sleep all day today and I'm sure that the moon's work is less
strenuous than mine. For one day, I won't be as hot under the collar."

By the end of the 24 hours, however, neither the sun or the moon had
the desire to continue with their short-term gig. "Man, that dayshift
job is not what it's cracked up to be," moaned the moon. "I had to
wake up several hours before I usually have to, and I was tired all
day."

"I enjoyed sleeping late," said the sun. "But about halfway through
that long second shift I lost some of my usual bright personality and
became a bit grumpy."

The Lord joined the conversation. "Didn't I tell you that you would
come to your senses and realize that I knew what I was doing when I
created you?"

"Yes, you did," said the sun. "And you were right. We should have
listened to you in the first place."

"What did you learn from this experiment?, " asked the Lord.

"I learned that I'm much more comfortable when I'm at my hottest,"
said the sun.

"And I learned that I feel much better when I keep my cool," chuckled
the moon.

Story of the Seed

Spiritual Story by Francis Kong

A successful business man was growing old and knew it was time to choose a successor to take over the business. Instead of choosing one of his Directors or his children, he decided to do something different. He called all the young executives in his company together.

He said, 'It is time for me to step down and choose the next CEO. I have decided to choose one of you. 'The young executives were shocked, but the boss continued. 'I am going to give each one of you a SEED today - one very special SEED. I want you to plant the seed, water it, and come back here one year from today with what you have grown from the seed I have given you. I will then judge the plants that you bring, and the one I choose will be the next CEO.'

One man, named Jim, was there that day and he, like the others, received a seed. He went home and excitedly, told his wife the story. She helped him get a pot, soil and compost and he planted the seed. Everyday, he would water it and watch to see if it had grown. After about three weeks, some of the other executives began to talk about their seeds and the plants that were beginning to grow. Jim kept checking his seed, but nothing ever grew.

Three weeks, four weeks, five weeks went by, still nothing.

By now, others were talking about their plants, but Jim didn't have a plant and he felt like a failure. Six months went by -- still nothing in Jim's pot. He just knew he had killed his seed. Everyone else had trees and tall plants, but he had nothing. Jim didn't say anything to his colleagues, however. He just kept watering and fertilizing the soil - He so wanted the seed to grow.

A year finally went by and all the young executives of the company brought their plants to the CEO for inspection. Jim told his wife that he wasn't going to take an empty pot...

But she asked him to be honest about what happened. Jim felt sick to his stomach, it was going to be the most embarrassing moment of his life, but he knew his wife was right. He took his empty pot to the boardroom. When Jim arrived, he was amazed at the variety of plants grown by the other executives. They were beautiful -- in all shapes and sizes. Jim put his empty pot on the floor and many of his colleagues laughed, a few felt sorry for him!

When the CEO arrived, he surveyed the room and greeted his young executives.

Jim just tried to hide in the back. 'My, what great plants, trees, and flowers you have grown,' said the CEO. 'Today one of you will be appointed the next CEO!'

All of a sudden, the CEO spotted Jim at the back of the room with his empty pot. He ordered the Financial Director to bring him to the front. Jim was terrified. He thought, 'The CEO knows I'm a failure! Maybe he will have me fired!'

When Jim got to the front, the CEO asked him what had happened to his seed - Jim told him the story. The CEO asked everyone to sit down except Jim. He looked at Jim, and then announced to the young executives, 'Behold your next Chief Executive Officer!

His name is Jim!' Jim couldn't believe it. Jim couldn't even grow his seed.

'How could he be the new CEO?' the others said.

Then the CEO said, 'One year ago today, I gave everyone in this room a seed. I told you to take the seed, plant it, water it, and bring it back to me today. But I gave you all boiled seeds; they were dead - it was not possible for them to grow.

All of you, except Jim, have brought me trees and plants and flowers. When you found that the seed would not grow, you substituted another seed for the one I gave you. Jim was the only one with the courage and honesty to bring me a pot with my seed in it. Therefore, he is the one who will be the new Chief Executive Officer!'

Daily Wisdom - The Teaching, Practice, and Proof

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, March 21, 2012:

Now in the Latter Day of the Law, any person—whether wise or ignorant, priest or lay believer, or of high or low position—who embraces Myoho-renge-kyo and practices it in accordance with the Buddha's teaching cannot fail to gain the fruit of Buddhahood.

The Teaching, Practice, and Proof
Written to Sammi-bo on March 21, 1275

Daily Wisdom - Worthies and sages are tested by abuse.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, March 20, 2012:


It is impossible to fathom one's karma. Iron, when heated in the flames and pounded, becomes a fine sword. Worthies and sages are tested by abuse. My present exile is not because of any secular crime. It is solely so that I may expiate in this lifetime my past grave offenses and be freed in the next from the three evil paths.

Letter from Sado
Written to Toki Jonin on March 20, 1272

Daily Wisdom - Do not have doubts simply because heaven does not lend you protection.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, March 19, 2012:

Although I and my disciples may encounter various difficulties, if we do not harbor doubts in our hearts, we will as a matter of course attain Buddhahood. Do not have doubts simply because heaven does not lend you protection. Do not be discouraged because you do not enjoy an easy and secure existence in this life. This is what I have taught my disciples morning and evening, and yet they begin to harbor doubts and abandon their faith.

The Opening of the Eyes
Written to Shijo Kingo in February 1272

Daily Wisdom - Reply to a Believer

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, March 18, 2012:

Regard your service to your lord as the practice of the Lotus Sutra. This is what is meant by "No worldly affairs of life or work are ever contrary to the true reality." I hope you will deeply consider the meaning of this passage.

Reply to a Believer
Written to Shijo Kingo on April 11, 1278

Story of an Assistance

Spiritual Story by Makram Abu-Shakra

My story took place more than a couple years ago, and the long term effects of the greeting was pivotal to my development. At the time, I was getting easily burnt out from work and I was at the mercy of the cycle of falling from grace on Monday and beginning my climb towards grace on Friday night.

One Saturday, I was trying to calm down from a busy work-week and to find some inspiration to make music. I remained in a funky state throughout the day and I began to get frustrated, my emotions got caught in a knot. That evening, I woke up from a nightmare that admonished me not to bring any more negative energy into this world. I sat up in bed and asked internally for help, as I had done repeatedly throughout the day without a discernible answer. After about a half hour of oscillating between frustration and prayer I finally sensed an external presence.

There was a feeling of slight pressure at the top of my head, the position of the crown chakra or violet-ray energy center. I quickly arrested all my thoughts to be aware of what was happening. I audially hallucinated the following words:

"We request permission to perceive this instrument." [the word 'instrument' denotes a channeler]

Seemingly instantaneously, another voice answered that sounded like me but was much softer. I guessed that it was my inner self: "You are perceiving this instrument."

I remained still and simply waited for something to happen. Nothing apparent seemed to occur, although I continued to feel the slight pressure on the top of my head.

Over time, this sensation faded and I went back to thinking my usual thoughts. But, I was able to do so much more fluidly, and I now believe that the help I received was a balancing and/or unblocking of my energy centers. I started to glimpse the reasons behind the specific type of catalysts I had been experiencing at work, to behold their poetic nature, so to speak. I went to sleep and had a prophetic dream:

I was at my desk at work which now had a large sign that was labeled the number "5" (in the Ra Material, the number 5 denotes a level of vibration corresponding to freely given communication, which also applies to myself as a musician). Two people came into the office and they started rearranging where people sat; instead of sitting in my usual spot beside a window and a view, they moved me to a closed cubicle. I became quite angry but the two people simply stared back without emotion or negative intent in their faces, and they seemed to represent very straightforward, average-looking people. Over time I interpreted this to mean that there was no divine order behind the contemporary workplace being so energy- and time-consuming. that this was simply the product of combined free will.

Monday came around and I was sitting at my desk pondering the events of the weekend. I was marveling at the beauty of life's catalyst and how they affected the movement of my psyche in ways that were enriching and downright poetic. I thought to myself that I'm ready and capable of whatever comes my way, and not a few minutes later did I hear my boss yell for me from across the office. It turned out he was on a conference call with a client and he demanded that the project I was working on be finished in half the time it would normally take.

When I went out for lunch that day, I saw a truck with a large sign that said "PIVOT: The Turning Point in Office Interiors".

Over the next month, I averaged 50-60 hours per week. Having had a dream which prophesied my increased workload at the job, I was more capable of accepting and affirming my situation. I was also thus given the opportunity to focus entirely on balancing my frustrations at work since there was no hope for any other aspirations.

Near the end of my project's completion, I worked through the weekend. Sunday evening came around and I remember a very powerful sunset. Having spent the last two days by myself in the office, I was left alone with my own energy and the space around me started to take on the air of being sacred. Gradually, the objects in my surroundings became more and more expressive, putting on a collective smile.

This expressiveness with time turned into an actual glow of life resonating from everything around me, so that the world felt fully alive. And finally, this living-ness began to exude love, a love that bloomed with bliss. I slipped into a form of ecstasy. And I remained in that place of bliss in varying degrees while I worked.

The long term result was that the office had transformed into a sacred place and from then on I've been able to psychologically revisit a milder form of such a state at will whenever things got too hectic and this helped me accept and enjoy my job from that

Step Away

Spiritual Story by David McLaughlan

My Dad died last year.

He wasn't an old man. Aged sixty-six it seemed to me he had been taken well before his time.

You can probably imagine the frustration, the anger, the unexpected flood of tears that have filled the twelve months since then. And I've come to realise that he wasn't "taken before his time". If that was when God chose to take him (and surely it was no one else's call) then that was his time.

A lot of my grief was for myself. What would I do without him? More importantly, I had to face up to the fact that, with him gone, I was the patriarch, mine was the final authority on family issues. Scariest of all, I realised that there was now no-one between me and death. His generation was gone and, all being well, mine would be next. Dad wasn't there to save me from the dark any more.

It meant I had to be the grown up.

Terrifying as that was it brought with it another realisation.

All through my life my father had been stepping away from me. Not in a neglectful way, but in a way that kept me moving forward.

When I took my first baby steps, he would have caught me. The next time I tried he held out his hands and, as I moved forward, he took a step back � and I took another step!

In the old, cold, public swimming baths I splashed relentlessly towards the deep end, safe in the knowledge that Dad was right in front, backing away from me as I completed that first length.

He held the seat of my bicycle until he thought I was ready. And then, without me even realising it, he let go and stepped away.

Many times, through the turmoil of the teenage years Dad would survey my latest disaster and go red in the face, then he'd walk away and leave me, ashamed and embarrassed, to fix it or learn from it.

When my own children came along he wasn't slow to tell me how he thought I should raise them. Then he'd shrug and metaphorically back away with the words, "But it's your decision."

Now, I'm a husband, a father, an uncle and a grandfather. I was all of that before he died. I like to think, in our time together, he'd taught me all he could about being a good man � like him.

From that point on in it was all up to me... so he stepped away.

Daily Wisdom - Strengthen your faith day by day and month after month.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, March 17, 2012:

Strengthen your faith day by day and month after month. Should you slacken in your resolve even a bit, devils will take advantage.

On Persecutions Befalling the Sage
Writen to all followers (and entrusted to Shijo Kingo) on October 1, 1279

Daily Wisdom - The Actions of the Votary of the Lotus Sutra

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, March 16, 2012:

Now, at the beginning of the Latter Day of the Law, I, Nichiren, am the first to set out on propagating, throughout Jambudvipa, the five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo, which are the heart of the Lotus Sutra and the eye of all Buddhas. These five characters are the heart of the Lotus Sutra and the source of the enlightenment of all Buddhas.

The Actions of the Votary of the Lotus Sutra
Written to the lay nun Konichi in 1276

Daily Wisdom - The Universal Salty Taste

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, March 15, 2012:

[The Nirvana Sutra] compares "it gradually becomes deeper" to the Lotus Sutra leading everyone, from ordinary people who lack understanding to sages who possess it, to attain the Buddha way.

The Universal Salty Taste
Recipient and date unknown

Daily Wisdom - Letter to the Lay Nun of Ko

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, March 14, 2012:

While I was there, however, you and your husband, the lay priest of Ko, being apprehensive of the eyes of others, brought me food in the middle of the night. Never fearing even punishment from the provincial officials, you are persons who were ready to sacrifice yourselves for me. Thus, though it was a harsh land, when I left, I felt as if the hair that had been shaved from my head were being tugged from behind and as if with each step I took I were being pulled back.

Letter to the Lay Nun of Ko
Written to the Lay Nun of Ko on June 16, 1275

So You Are Very Wealthy

Spiritual Story by Kazeronnie Mak

A young man was muttering about his bad luck and that he had no money. Every day he was very sad, and then one day he crossed paths with a wise senior who said:

'Why are you so unhappy?’

‘I don’t understand why I’m so poor always!’ he said.

‘Poor? I think you are very wealthy!’ the wise senior said sincerely.

The young man puzzled, ‘What exactly do you mean?’

The wise senior asked, ‘Suppose someone offers you one thousand dollars to cut your finger off. Will you do that?’

‘Of course, not!’ the young man replied.

‘Suppose someone offers you ten thousand dollars to chop your leg off. Will you do that?’

‘Certainly, not!’ the young man replied.

‘Suppose someone offers you hundred thousand dollars to scoop your eyes out. Will you do that?’

‘Surely, not!’ the young man replied.

‘Suppose someone offers you one million dollars to turn you into a ninety years old man in a blink of an eye. Will you do that?’

‘Definitely, not!’ the young man replied.

‘Suppose someone offers you ten million dollars to take your life away. Will you do that?’

‘Absolutely, not!' the young man replied.

The wise senior said with a smile, ‘ That’s right. You are already wealthier than ten million dollars. So why are you still lamented for being poor?'

Daily Wisdom - On the Treasure Tower

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, March 13, 2012:

Abutsu-bo is therefore the treasure tower itself, and the treasure tower is Abutsu-bo himself. No other knowledge is purposeful. It is the treasure tower adorned with the seven kinds of treasures—hearing the correct teaching, believing it, keeping the precepts, engaging in meditation, practicing assiduously, renouncing one's attachments, and reflecting on oneself. You may think you offered gifts to the treasure tower of the Thus Come One Many Treasures, but that is not so. You offered them to yourself.

On the Treasure Tower
Written to Abutsu-bo Nittoko on March 13, 1272

Daily Wisdom - Letter to Endo Saemon-no-jo

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, March 12, 2012:

I recently received an official pardon, and I will return to Kamakura. Can this be the year in which the passage "What I long ago hoped for has now been fulfilled" comes true for me? Without your protection, could I possibly have sustained my life? Could I have survived to be pardoned? My life's achievements are due entirely to you and to those like you.

Letter to Endo Saemon-no-jo
Written to Endo Saemon-no-jo on March 12, 1274

Daily Wisdom - On the Treasure Tower

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, March 11, 2012:

You, yourself, are a Thus Come One who is originally enlightened and endowed with the three bodies. You should chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with this conviction. Then the place where you chant daimoku will become the dwelling place of the treasure tower.

On the Treasure Tower
Written to Abutsu-bo Nittoku on March 13, 1272

Daily Wisdom - Rely on the Law and not upon persons.

Daily Wisdom
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, March 10, 2012:

A sutra says: "Rely on the Law and not upon persons. Rely on the meaning of the teaching and not upon the words. Rely on wisdom and not upon discriminative thinking. Rely on sutras that are complete and final and not on those that are not complete and final." The meaning of this passage is that one should rely not upon the words of the bodhisattvas and teachers but should heed what was established by the Buddha.

How Those Initially Aspiring to the Way Can Attain Buddhahood through the Lotus Sutra
Written to the lay nun Myoho in 1277

Daily Wisdom - This is What I Heard

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, March 9, 2012:

Our contemporaries think of the five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo only as a name, but this is not correct. It is the essence, that is, the heart of the Lotus Sutra. . . . Those who seek the heart of the sutra apart from its title are as foolish as the turtle who sought the monkey's liver outside the monkey, or the monkey who left the forest and sought fruit on the seashore.

This is What I Heard
Written to the lay priest Soya Jiro on November 28, 1277

Daily Wisdom - The debt of gratitude owed to one's father and mother.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, March 8, 2012:

The debt of gratitude owed to one's father and mother is as vast as the ocean. If one cares for them while they are alive but does nothing to help them in their next life, it will be like a mere drop of water.

On Filial and Unfilial Conduct
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on March 8, 1280

Daily Wisdom - There are not two lands, pure or impure in themselves.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, March 7, 2012:

If the minds of living beings are impure, their land is also impure, but if their minds are pure, so is their land. There are not two lands, pure or impure in themselves. The difference lies solely in the good or evil of our minds. It is the same with a Buddha and an ordinary being. While deluded, one is called an ordinary being, but when enlightened, one is called a Buddha. This is similar to a tarnished mirror that will shine like a jewel when polished.

On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime
Written to Toki Jonin in 1255

Daily Wisdom - The Difficulty of Sustaining Faith

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, March 6, 2012:

A passage from the Lotus Sutra reads that it is "the most difficult to believe and the most difficult to understand." Many hear about and accept this sutra, but when great obstacles arise, just as they were told would happen, few remember it and bear it firmly in mind. To accept is easy; to continue is difficult. But Buddhahood lies in continuing faith.

The Difficulty of Sustaining Faith
Written to Shijo Kingo on March 6, 1275

Daily Wisdom - The more one praises the blessings of the Lotus Sutra, the more one's own blessings will increase.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, March 5, 2012:

The more gold is heated in the flames, the brighter will be its color; the more a sword is whetted, the sharper it will become. And the more one praises the blessings of the Lotus Sutra, the more one's own blessings will increase. Bear in mind that the twenty-eight chapters of the Lotus Sutra contain only a few passages elucidating the truth, but a great many words of praise.

The Blessings of the Lotus Sutra
Written to Myomitsu on March 5, 1276

Daily Wisdom - The Real Aspect of the Gohonzon

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, March 4, 2012:

A woman who makes offerings to such a Gohonzon invites happiness in this life; and in the next, the Gohonzon will be with her and protect her always. Like a lantern in the dark, like a strong guide and porter on a treacherous mountain path, the Gohonzon will guard and protect you, Lady Nichinyo, wherever you go.

The Real Aspect of the Gohonzon
Written to Nichinyo on August 23, 1277

Daily Wisdom - a tarnished mirror, but when polished, it is sure to become like a clear mirror.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, March 3, 2012:

A mind now clouded by the illusions of the innate darkness of life is like a tarnished mirror, but when polished, it is sure to become like a clear mirror, reflecting the essential nature of phenomena and the true aspect of reality. Arouse deep faith, and diligently polish your mirror day and night. How should you polish it? Only by chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.

On Attaining Buddhahood in this Lifetime
Written to Toki Jonin in 1255

Daily Wisdom - Buddha in Everyone.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, March 2, 2012:

Bodhisattva Never Disparaging of old said that all people have the Buddha nature and that, if they embrace the Lotus Sutra, they will never fail to attain Buddhahood. He further stated that to slight a person is to slight the Buddha himself. Thus, his practice was to revere all people. He revered even those who did not embrace the Lotus Sutra because they too had the Buddha nature and might someday believe in the sutra.

The Fourteen Slanders
Written to the lay priest Matsuno Rokuro Saemon on December 9, 1276

Daily Wisdom - On Repaying Debts of Gratitude

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, March 1, 2012:

If in this present existence I am so fearful for my life that I fail to speak out, then in what future existence will I ever attain Buddhahood? Or in what future existence will I ever be able to bring salvation to my parents and my teacher? With thoughts such as these uppermost in my mind, I decided that I must begin to speak out. And, just as I had expected, I was ousted, I was vilified, I was attacked, and I suffered wounds.

On Repaying Debts of Gratitude
Written to Joken-bo and Gijo-bo on July 21, 1276

Daily Wisdom - The Opening of the Eyes

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, February 29, 2012:

In the end it is nothing other than the loving kindness with which the woman cares for her child that makes the difference. Her concern concentrates on one thing just like the Buddhist practice of concentration. She thinks of nothing but her child, which is similar to Buddhist compassion. That must be why, although she created no other causes to bring it about, she was reborn in the Brahma heaven.

The Opening of the Eyes
Written to Shijo Kingo in February 1272

Daily Wisdom - The Proof of the Lotus Sutra

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, February 28, 2012:

Since you now appear certain to attain Buddhahood, perhaps the heavenly devil and evil spirits are using illness to try to intimidate you. Life in this world is limited. Never be even the least bit afraid!

The Proof of the Lotus Sutra
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on February 28, 1282

Daily Wisdom - Questions and Answers about Embracing the Lotus Sutra

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, February 27, 2012:

However, people all turn their backs on these sutra passages, and the world as a whole is completely confused with regard to the principles of Buddhism. Why do you persist in following the teachings of evil friends? T'ien-t'ai said that to accept and put faith in the doctrines of evil teachers is the same as drinking poison. You should deeply consider this and beware.

Questions and Answers about Embracing the Lotus Sutra
Recipient unknown; written in March 1263

Daily Wisdom - On Repaying Debts of Gratitude

Daily Wisdom
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, February 26, 2012:

The Great Teacher Tz'u-en wrote a work in ten volumes entitled Praising the Profundity of the Lotus Sutra in which he praised the Lotus Sutra, but the Great Teacher Dengyo criticized it, saying, "Though he praises the Lotus Sutra, he destroys its heart." If we consider these examples carefully, we will realize that, among those who read the Lotus Sutra and sing its praises, there are many who are destined for the hell of incessant suffering.

On Repaying Debts of Gratitude
Written to Joken-bo and Gijo-bo on July 21, 1276

Daily Wisdom - The Two Kinds of Faith

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, February 25, 2012:

Today there are people who have faith in the Lotus Sutra. The belief of some is like fire while that of others is like water. When the former listen to the teachings, their passion flares up like fire, but as time goes on, they tend to discard their faith. To have faith like water means to believe continuously without ever regressing.

The Two Kinds of Faith
Written to Nanjo Tokumitsu on February 25, 1278

Daily Wisdom - The Fourteen Slanders

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, February 24, 2012:

No matter how humble a person may be, if his wisdom is the least bit greater than yours, you should ask him about the meaning of the sutra. But the people in this evil age are so arrogant, prejudiced, and attached to fame and profit that they are afraid that, should they become the disciple of a humble person or try to learn something from him, they will be looked down upon by others. They never rid themselves of this wrong attitude, so they seem to be destined for the evil paths.

The Fourteen Slanders
Written to the lay priest Matsuno Rokuro Saemon on December 9, 1276

Daily Wisdom - Letter to Misawa

Daily Wisdom
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, February 23, 2012:

Even though one may encounter a wise teacher and the true sutra and thereby embrace the correct teaching, when one resolves to break free from the sufferings of birth and death and attain Buddhahood, one will inevitably encounter seven grave matters known as the three obstacles and four devils, just as surely as a shadow follows the body and clouds accompany rain. Even if you should manage to overcome the first six, if you are defeated by the seventh, you will not be able to become a Buddha.

Letter to Misawa
Written to Misawa Kojiro on February 23, 1278

Daily Wisdom - On Offering Prayers to the Mandala of the Mystic Law

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, February 22, 2012:

Though this mandala has but five or seven characters, it is the teacher of all Buddhas throughout the three existences and the seal that guarantees the enlightenment of all women. It will be a lamp in the darkness of the road to the next world and a fine horse to carry you over the mountains of death. It is like the sun and moon in the heavens or Mount Sumeru on earth. It is a ship to ferry people over the sea of the sufferings of birth and death. It is the teacher who leads all people to Buddhahood and enlightenment.

On Offering Prayers to the Mandala of the Mystic Law
Recipient and date unknown

Daily Wisdom - The Swords of Good and Evil

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, February 21, 2012:

Nam-myoho-renge-kyo will be your staff to take you safely over the mountains of death. The Buddhas Shakyamuni and Many Treasures, as well as the four bodhisattvas headed by Superior Practices, will lead you by the hand on your journey. If I, Nichiren, precede you in death, I will come to meet you at your last moment. If you should precede me, I will be sure to tell King Yama all about you. Everything that I tell you is true. According to the Lotus Sutra, Nichiren is the guide who knows the passes and gorges along the way.

The Swords of Good and Evil
Written to Hojo Yagenta on February 21, 1274

Daily Wisdom - The Fourteen Slanders

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, February 20, 2012:

Even an ignorant person can obtain blessings by serving someone who expounds the Lotus Sutra. No matter if he is a demon or an animal, if someone proclaims even a single verse or phrase of the Lotus Sutra, you must respect him as you would the Buddha. This is what the sutra means when it says, "You should rise and greet him from afar, showing him the same respect you would a Buddha." You should respect one another as Shakyamuni and Many Treasures did at the ceremony in the "Treasure Tower" chapter.

The Fourteen Slanders
Written to the lay priest Matsuno Rokuro Saemon on December 9, 1276

Daily Wisdom - Without practice and study, there can be no Buddhism.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, February 19, 2012:

Be sure to strengthen your faith, and receive the protection of Shakyamuni, Many Treasures, and the Buddhas of the ten directions. Exert yourself in the two ways of practice and study. Without practice and study, there can be no Buddhism. You must not only persevere yourself; you must also teach others. Both practice and study arise from faith. Teach others to the best of your ability, even if it is only a single sentence or phrase.

The True Aspect of All Phenomena
Written to Sairen-bo Nichijo on May 17, 1273

Daily Wisdom - The Essence of the "Life Span" Chapter

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, February 18, 2012:

Grass without roots will die in no time and a river without a source will not flow far. A child without parents is looked down upon. Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, the heart of the "Life Span" chapter, is the mother of all Buddhas throughout the ten directions and the three existences of past, present and future.

The Essence of the "Life Span" Chapter
Recipient unknown; written on April 17,1271

Daily Wisdom - The Essentials for Attaining Buddhahood

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, February 17, 2012:

Bodhisattva Superior Practices received the water of wisdom of the Mystic Law from the Thus Come One Shakyamuni and causes it to flow into the wasteland of the people's lives in the evil world of the latter age. This is the function of wisdom. Shakyamuni Buddha transferred this teaching to Bodhisattva Superior Practices, and now Nichiren propagates it in Japan.

The Essentials for Attaining Buddhahood
Written to Soya Jiro Hyoe-no-jo Kyoshin on August 3, 1276

Daily Wisdom - How slanderous monks should be treated?

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, February 16, 2012:

According to the Buddhist teachings, prior to Shakyamuni slanderous monks would have incurred the death penalty. But since the time of Shakyamuni, the One Who Can Endure, the giving of alms to slanderous monks is forbidden in the sutra teachings.

On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land
Submitted to Hojo Tokiyori on July 16, 1260

Daily Wisdom - The spirit of many in body but one in mind

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, February 15, 2012:

All disciples and lay supporters of Nichiren should chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with the spirit of many in body but one in mind, transcending all differences among themselves to become as inseparable as fish and the water in which they swim. This spiritual bond is the basis for the universal transmission of the ultimate Law of life and death. Herein lies the true goal of Nichiren's propagation. When you are so united, even the great desire for widespread propagation can be fulfilled.

The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life
Written to Sairen-bo Nichijo on February 11, 1272

Daily Wisdom - On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime

Daily Wisdom
From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, February 14, 2012:

Whether you chant the Buddha's name, recite the sutra, or merely offer flowers and incense, all your virtuous acts will implant benefits and roots of goodness in your life. With this conviction you should strive in faith.

On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime
Written to Toki Jonin in 1255

Significance of Inner Cleanliness

Spiritual Story by BK Surat Singh Ayer

Salty and Sugary were not only ants, they were both very close friends with different eating habits. Sugary lived on a mountain of sugar and ate sugar. Likewise Salty lived on Salt Mountain and ate salt. Sugary felt bad for his friend Salty who had never tasted the sweetness of sugar, so Sugary invited Salty over for dinner.

But when Salty was about to leave for dinner, he became scared not knowing how sugar would taste. Salty thought maybe he should bring his own food with him, just in case the sugar tasted bad and he didn't want to eat it, so he filled his mouth with salt to bring with him.

When Salty arrived at the mountain of sugar he noticed that it looked just the same as his own mountain of salt, and upon his arrival he was welcomed with great respect by Sugary. They both shared about what had happened in their lives recently, eventually leading up to Sugary bringing in some sugar to share.

"What do you think of the sugar," Sugary asked?

Salty replied "It's not as good as salt."

Sugary was confused because he knew how good sugar tasted, and after inspecting the sugar, he determined that maybe Salty had a little bit of salt left over in his mouth. Sugary looked in Salty's mouth and saw a pile of salt so large that it made it impossible for Salty to even taste the sugar!

Sugary wasn't upset, he just wanted to share this wonderful gift with Salty, and he asked Salty to clean out his mouth. Salty cleaned it as pure as could be, and then Sugary gave him some new sugar to taste. Immediately, Salty was amazed at how good the sugar tasted, and could not believe that he had never experienced this before in his entire life. It was so good, in fact, that Salty asked if he could move to the mountain of sugar and live with his friend from then on. Being the wonderful friend that he is, Sugary agreed.

From then on, they lived together with happiness and harmony.

Sales 101: Loving the People

Spiritual Story by Corinne Edwards

My son Paul got a job with a large chain of guitar stores. He had never worked in a retail organization before. The pay was based on a small salary plus commission.

They put him through an extensive sales training. It was the usual stuff on how to approach a customer, present the product and mostly of course, close the deal and make the sale! It was almost like a car dealer's pitch, "Do you want the red car or the white?"

He wasn't doing well. To make matters worse, they had an embarrassing gimmick. A photographer was based in the parking lot and instructed to take a picture of every customer who exited without a package.

These photos were posted on what they called "The Be Back" board in the employees lounge. Many of the "I'll be back" customers were his.

Paul dropped by for coffee one morning.

He said, "Mom, you used to be a sales trainer. What am I doing wrong? What's the key?"

I answered him, "The key is that you have to love those people you are selling. Never count the commission in your mind. Do what is best for them if they are just buying some strings or an expensive guitar."

I went on �"I believe that 99% of communication is mental. People sense if you are coming to them with a loving attitude or as a desperate salesman looking to close them."

He said he'd try it.

His sales started coming in. Then they really escalated. He became the top salesman in the store. And his salary reflected it. (One of his buddies tipped him off that the management was so surprised that they started to watch him carefully to make sure he was not giving merchandise away)

In six months, he was one of the top ten salesman in the entire chain out of 400 around the country.

This company gives an extravagant party once a year to honor their top ten salespeople. Limos, deluxe hotel, elegant dinner - the works. Paul was of course included.

After the dinner, the president of the company approached him.

He said, "Paul, how did you do this? You came up out of nowhere."

Paul answered, "I don't want to tell you. You won't believe me."

"Of course I'll believe you. Tell me."

Paul gulped. "I started loving the people who come in."

The big boss replied, "Okay Paul, now tell me how you REALLY did it."

Daily Wisdom - No Safety in the Threefold World

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, February 13, 2012:

Because I chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo with my own mouth, I have been reviled, struck, exiled, and had my life threatened. However, in spite of all this, I have continued to exhort others to do likewise. Am I not then a votary of the Lotus Sutra?

No Safety in the Threefold World
Written to Matsuno Rokuro Saemon on February 13, 1278

Daily Wisdom - The Daimoku of the Lotus Sutra

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, February 12, 2012:

Thus faith is the basic requirement for entering the way of the Buddha. In the fifty-two stages of bodhisattva practice, the first ten stages, dealing with faith are basic, and the first of these ten stages is that of arousing pure faith. Though lacking in knowledge of Buddhism, a person of faith, even if dull-witted, is to be reckoned as a person of correct views. But even though one has some knowledge of Buddhism, if one is without faith, then one is to be considered a slanderer and an icchantika, or person of incorrigible disbelief.

The Daimoku of the Lotus Sutra
Recipient unknown; written on January 6, 1266

Review of a Great Movie

Spiritual Story by Amitt Parikh

Hi! I am compelled to write a review of a movie I can�t stop watching. It�s a great movie with such a huge star cast, such a huge and beautiful stage and such a great story that I have to give it 5 stars.

As you know, the heart of a movie is its story. The story of this movie is so complex yet so simple, full of emotions, full of action, full of mystery, full of love, full of violence, full of science fiction, full of... well there is nothing that is not there in this movie.

The director seems to be very creative, very original and very intelligent. I can�t believe how he can interweave such diverse subjects, such a huge star cast and such a huge set so nicely. All actors have acted so well, it seems they enter completely into the heart of the character they are playing. The set design is so wonderful, sometimes it is difficult whether to watch the drama or just get lost into the beautiful sets...


The director himself is the producer and has invested a huge amount out of his own pocket in financing the film. No one can believe it�s a one man show, but it is! The director is also the producer, the story writer, the set designer, the lyricist, the sound designer, the editor... well almost everything except acting!

The movie is so mesmerizing I can�t stop watching it... hey... I think I saw you in the movie! You have a pretty big role in it! How can you act so well... when you know deep down you are not that character? I mean, look at you. Deep within you are so beautiful... so powerful... so intelligent... yet you are acting so well in the role of a powerless, less intelligent and �lost� character who doesn�t even know who he is! It�s really great.

But, it seems you are sucked into it. You have been acting since.. I can�t even remember your entry. What? You are thinking about the movie name? Oh! I thought you know the movie name as you are acting in it! It�s called... well it�s all around you... don�t pretend, I know you know it.

Hey, come out of the movie... I know acting is fun... but believe me sitting in audience and watching the movie is much more fun...!

I have just asked the director to cut my role and let me enjoy it sitting in audience! He just showed me a trick. Guess what? I can do both at a time. Act as well as observe it simultaneously. All you have to do is... well you know it in your heart!

It�s real fun. Come on board, buddy!

Daily Wisdom - To chant Myoho-renge-kyo with this realization is to inherit the ultimate Law of life and death.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, February 11, 2011:

Shakyamuni Buddha who attained enlightenment countless kalpas ago, the Lotus Sutra that leads all people to Buddhahood, and we ordinary human beings are in no way different or separate from one another. To chant Myoho-renge-kyo with this realization is to inherit the ultimate Law of life and death. This is a matter of the utmost importance for Nichiren's disciples and lay supporters, and this is what it means to embrace the Lotus Sutra.

The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life
Written to Sairen-bo Nichijo on February 11, 1272

Daily Wisdom - The Teaching, Capacity, Time, and Country

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, February 10, 2011:

If even Shariputra, the foremost in wisdom among the disciples of the Buddha, failed to understand people's capacity, then how much more difficult must it be for ordinary teachers today, in the Latter Day of the Law, to have such an understanding! Ordinary teachers who lack an understanding of people's capacity should teach only the Lotus Sutra to those who are under their instruction.

The Teaching, Capacity, Time, and Country
Recipient unknown; written on February 10, 1262

Returning Home

Spiritual Story by Keith Beasley

The year was 2012... a period long predicted as a time of significant and positive change. The Mayans, many centuries before for example, in their much respected South American civilisation, had known that 2012 (in our western calendar) would correspond to the end of a long painful period of change. In 2012 a new world order would finally be in place, they said.

The aging man smiled peacefully, from deep within, as he took his seat on the rostrum. For the sake of tradition and effect he'd agreed to use the traditional 'throne' although he knew it was no longer necessary as the symbol it once was.

All over the world families chose the Global Peace Channel and were able to see, hear and sense the event, as it happened. Thousands of millions more merely sensed that a small, but significant piece of the jig-saw puzzle of the new order was now firmly in place.

The date was the 12th of December... the 12th day of the 12th month of the 12th year of the 3rd millennium. A few months earlier the Dalai Lama had made his way quietly and without fuss back from his exile of over sixty years to his homeland... Tibet. His country, the land of which he was spiritual and cultural 'leader' was finally restored to an independent country... just at the time when the super-powers, India, China, Europe and America had all finally put their hearts and money where their voices had previously been: in the United Nations and the theory of 'one world'. It had been a long, slow, change... for the world and it's people.

The Dalai Lama reflected on his years in exile and his own lessons as he'd taught... and learnt how to live as a Buddha in human form. Tears came to his eyes as he prepared to speak. He knew that all those years of acceptance and experiencing of pain had been worthwhile. As the tears flowed he held his hands in prayer and bowed. Knowing that the eyes of the world were on him merely enabled the relief and joy to flow even more freely.

He raised his distinguished head and looked around... both proudly and with the deep humility that had marked him as one of THE great inspirations of the late 20th and early 21st century. Throughout the world all those tuned into him, in whatever way, felt he was looking at them, individually. He was. So too was he speaking to them directly. Yet no words were said. The enlightening process that he and so many other had been pursuing on the preceding decades now made words unnecessary. He and they knew they could never describe the joy and peace and sense of one-ness that so many humans now shared. His enthronement was just one small symbol of the now complete change.

Back at the turn of the century such times were but a hope. But at least then the Chinese were allowing visitors into Tibet. True, their intent was to bring in the pound and dollar to pay for their 'standard of life' changes in the huge country. China was becoming westernised and those in power exposed to so many influences. The tide of one-ness had passed it's point of no return. There would be many changes, at all levels. Materialism and globalism still had a way to go before they burnt themselves out, but deep in the hearts of many, even then, was a new way growing and developing. Whether working to Free Tibet or find true freedom in individual minds, the critical steps had been taken. Day by day the light was dawning. The journey home was well underway.

Daily Wisdom - The Recitation of the "Expedient Means" and "Life Span" Chapters

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, February 9, 2011:

What good karma must you have formed in the past, then, to have been born a person able to recite even so much as a verse or a phrase of the Lotus Sutra!

The Recitation of the "Expedient Means" and "Life Span" Chapters
Written to Hiki Daigaku Saburo Yoshimoto's wife on April 17, 1264

Daily Wisdom - The True Aspect of All Phenomena

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, February 8, 2011:

Not even the wisdom of the Buddha can fathom the blessings that one will obtain by giving alms to Nichiren and by becoming his disciple and lay supporter.

The True Aspect of All Phenomena
Written to Sairen-bo Nichijo on May 17, 1273

Daily Wisdom - Reply to the Lay Priest Takahashi

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, February 7, 2011:

I am much distressed to hear that your illness has become so serious. Swords exist to cut down enemies, however, and medicine exists to cure sickness. King Ajatashatru murdered his father and made himself an enemy of the Buddha. But after foul sores broke out on his body, he converted to the Buddha's teachings and embraced the Lotus Sutra, whereupon his sores healed and he prolonged his life by forty years.

Reply to the Lay Priest Takahashi
Written to the Lay Priest Takashashi

Reserving Judgment

Spiritual Story by Veronica Haunani Fitzhugh-Hill

I learned a lot today.

Early this morning I threw up while driving my husband to work. And, we were both excited about the possibility that I might be pregnant.

Then, my husband told me that our child would be raised Pentacostal Holiness like him. I said that we would share in the spiritual upbringing of our child and then allow him or her to decide what was best for him or her. He did not agree with this, because according to his beliefs, all other religions are wrong, the leaders of those religions are false prophets, and the followers are going to Hell. He is so convicted in this belief that he cannot allow his child to develop a tolerance for other beliefs.

I am a Universal Unitarian that believes that all beliefs hold truths and should be respected. Raising my child to condemn those that are different than s/he is makes me very, very uncomfortable. I also felt disrespected like my husband needed to protect our child from my spiritual influences. I was not interested in getting stuck in a game of my religion is better than yours.

In later reflection, I realized that I still harbor some resentment to Fundamentalists who have called me the anti-Christ and the devil for my beliefs and practices. I realized that although my belief system requires openness to other religions, I was not as open as I thought I was.

I have a prejudice against Fundamentalists. I think they are fanatical extremists. I think they are bigoted. I think they are self-righteous. I think they are misguided in their attempts to take the Bible literally. I think they act out of fear and not love. And, I think any group that thinks they are the only ones who know how to reach enlightenment or Heaven or what have you is arrogant and in error. I think they are wrong.

Truthfully, I am the one who is wrong. Judging a whole group of people by what the media says about them or from my impersonal interactions with a few of them makes me as narrow-minded and bigoted as I accuse them of being.

Truthfully, the fight was about my ego. I want to extend my ego or way of thinking to my children without any interference. This is wrong of me. I say that I want children who thinks for themselves, listens to their own intuitions, discerns for themselves their paths. Now, I see that I really want them to uphold the beliefs I have. Not really because I have infallable proof that my beliefs are right. I want them to uphold them, simply because they are mine. And, I really need to work on this fascism of mine.

And truthfully, there must be something to my husband's beliefs, because he is the most loving man I have ever met.

I am so sorry that in my prejudice against those who believe what he believes, I was blinded to him. I was unappreciative of any wisdom he could give me. I was disrespectful and critical whenever he presented his views to me. I treated him like he was ignorant.

And, that is not the case.

He is beautiful. He is kind. He is accepting. He listens to me. He allows me to teach him. He is the best person I have ever met. And, I routinely humiliate him. And, he routinely forgives me.

Right now, I am not sure where my husband is, because we had a fight. And, he stormed off and wouldn't speak to me. I hope he comes back.

And, I hope he allows me to make this up to him.

Daily Wisdom - The Selection of the Time

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, February 6, 2011:

Therefore, I say to you, my disciples, try practicing as the Lotus Sutra teaches, exerting yourselves without begrudging your lives! Test the truth of Buddhism now!

The Selection of the Time
Written to Yui in 1275

Remove Your Cap

Spiritual Story by Malladi Venkata Krishna Murthy

A man walked into First Suburban Church wearing an expensive suit and a baseball cap. After he sat down, an usher walked up discretely, introduced himself, and said, "Pardon me, but we don't wear hats in the sanctuary." The well-dressed man nodded - and left the cap in place. A few minutes later, a deacon repeated the process - with the same outcome. Then, just before the service began, the pastor came, smiled, and shook his hand. "Sir, we are pleased to have you with us," he said. "But we respectfully ask that you remove your cap during worship.""Of course!" he replied and took it off. "It's just that I have attended this church for three and a half years and haven't met a soul. Today I wore a dirty baseball cap and met the head usher, a deacon, and now the pastor!

Daily Wisdom - On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, February 5, 2011:

You must never think that any of the eighty thousand sacred teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha's lifetime or any of the Buddhas and bodhisattvas of the ten directions and three existences are outside yourself. Your practice of the Buddhist teachings will not relieve you of the sufferings of birth and death in the least unless you perceive the true nature of your life.

On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime
Written to Toki Jonin in 1255

Daily Wisdom - Letter to Niike

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, February 4, 2011:

The Buddha taught that the blessings of a single offering to the votary of this sutra are a hundred, thousand, ten thousand, million times greater than those of offering countless treasures to Shakyamuni for eighty million kalpas. When one encounters this sutra, one will overflow with happiness and shed tears of joy. It seems impossible to repay one's debt to Shakyamuni. But by your frequent offerings to me deep in these mountains you will repay the merciful kindness of both the Lotus Sutra and Shakyamuni Buddha.

Letter to Niike
Written to Niike Saemon-no-jo in February 1280

Daily Wisdom - Great Evil and Great Good

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, February 3, 2011:

Great events never have minor omens. When great evil occurs, great good follows. Since great slander already exists in our land, the great correct Law will spread without fail. What could any of you have to lament? Even if you are not the Venerable Mahakashyapa, you should all perform a dance. Even if you are not Shariputra, you should leap up and dance. When Bodhisattva Superior Practices emerged from the earth, did he not emerge dancing?

Great Evil and Great Good
Date and recipient unknown

Daily Wisdom - The Great Vow

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, February 2, 2011:

Here I will make a great vow. Though I might be offered the rulership of Japan if I would only abandon the Lotus Sutra, accept the teachings of the Meditation Sutra, and look forward to rebirth in the Pure Land, though I might be told that my father and mother will have their heads cut off if I do not recite the Nembutsu—whatever obstacles I might encounter, so long as persons of wisdom do not prove my teachings to be false, I will never yield! All other troubles are no more to me than dust before the wind.

The Opening of the Eyes
Written to Shijo Kingo in February 1272

Daily Wisdom - The Opening of the Eyes

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, February 1, 2011:

If I remain silent, I may escape persecutions in this lifetime, but in my next life I will most certainly fall into the hell of incessant suffering. If I speak out, I am fully aware that I will have to contend with the three obstacles and four devils. But of these two courses, surely the latter is the one to choose.

The Opening of the Eyes
Written to Shijo Kingo in February 1272

Daily Wisdom - Earthly Desires are Enlightenment

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, January 31, 2011:

Carry through with your faith in the Lotus Sutra. You cannot strike fire from flint if you stop halfway. Bring forth the great power of faith, and be spoken of by all the people of Kamakura, both high and low, or by all the people of Japan as "Shijo Kingo, Shijo Kingo of the Lotus school!" Even a bad reputation will spread far and wide. A good reputation will spread even farther, particularly if it is a reputation for devotion to the Lotus Sutra.

Earthly Desires are Enlightenment
Written to Shijo Kingo on May 2, 1272

Daily Wisdom - A Sage Perceives the Three Existences of Life

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, January 30, 2011:

My disciples, you should believe what I say and watch what happens. These things do not occur because I myself am respectworthy, but because the power of the Lotus Sutra is supreme. If I praise myself, people will think that I am boastful, but if I humble myself, they will despise the sutra. The taller the pine tree, the longer the wisteria vine hanging from it. The deeper the source, the longer the stream. How fortunate, how joyful! In this impure land, I alone enjoy true happiness and delight.

A Sage Perceives the Three Existences of Life
Written to Toki Jonin in 1275

Daily Wisdom - Practitioners of Buddhism

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, January 29, 2011:

Understand then that the votary who practices the Lotus Sutra exactly as the Buddha teaches will without fail be attacked by the three powerful enemies. In the more than two thousand years that have passed since the Buddha's advent, Shakyamuni himself, T'ien-t'ai and Dengyo were the only three who perfectly carried out the Buddha's teachings. Now in the Latter Day of the Law, Nichiren and his disciples and lay believers are just such practitioners.

On Practicing the Buddha's Teachings
Written to all followers in May 1273

Daily Wisdom - As long as you are praised by the Lotus Sutra, what cause have you for discontent?

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, January 28, 2011:

Let others hate you if they will. What have you to complain of, if you are cherished by Shakyamuni Buddha, Many Treasures Buddha, and the Buddhas of the ten directions, as well as by Brahma, Shakra, and the gods of the sun and the moon? As long as you are praised by the Lotus Sutra, what cause have you for discontent?

The Unity of Husband and Wife
Written to Nichigen-nyo on January 27, 1275

Daily Wisdom - If the mind of faith is perfect, then the water of wisdom, the great impartial wisdom, will never dry up.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, January 27, 2011:

If a vessel is free of these four faults of overturning, leaking, being defiled, and being mixed, then it can be called a perfect vessel. If the embankments around a moat do not leak, then the water will never escape from the moat. And if the mind of faith is perfect, then the water of wisdom, the great impartial wisdom, will never dry up.

Letter to Akimoto
Written to Akimoto Taro Hyoe-no-jo on January 27, 1280

Daily Wisdom - The Tripitaka Master Shan-wu-wei

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, January 26, 2011:

One should not be intimidated by the fact that so many hold such beliefs. Nor does the truth of a belief depend on whether it has been held for a long or short time. The point is simply whether or not it conforms with the text of the scriptures and with reason.,.

The Tripitaka Master Shan-wu-wei
Written to Joken-bo and Gijo-bo in 1270

Daily Wisdom - The Three Kinds of Treasure

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, January 25, 2011:

Buddhism teaches that, when the Buddha nature manifests itself from within, it will receive protection from without. This is one of its fundamental principles.

The Three Kinds of Treasure
Written to Shijo Kingo on September 11, 1277

Daily Wisdom - Matters of minor importance arise from good ...

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, January 24, 2011:

I explained the teachings of the Lotus Sutra to you before. Matters of minor importance arise from good, but when it comes to a matter of great importance, great disaster without fail changes into great fortune.

Warning against Begrudging One's Fief
Written to Shijo Kingo in July 1277

Daily Wisdom - On Offerings for Deceased Ancestors

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, January 23, 2011:

A wisteria vine, by twining around a pine, may climb a thousand fathoms into the air; and a crane, because it has wings to rely upon, can travel ten thousand ri. It is not their own strength that allows them to do these things. This applies likewise in the case of the priest Jibu-bo. Though he himself is like the wisteria vine, because he clings to the pine that is the Lotus Sutra, he is able to ascend the mountain of perfect enlightenment.

On Offerings for Deceased Ancestors
Written to Jibu-bo Nichii's grandmother on July 13, 1279

Daily Wisdom - On Repaying Debts of Gratitude

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, January 22, 2011:

A hundred years of practice in the land of Perfect Bliss cannot compare to the benefit gained from one day's practice in the impure world. Two thousand years of propagating Buddhism during the Former and Middle Days of the Law are inferior to an hour of propagation in the Latter Day of the Law. This is in no way because of Nichiren's wisdom, but simply because the time makes it so. In spring the blossoms open, in autumn the fruit appears. Summer is hot, winter is cold. The season makes it so, does it not?

On Repaying Debts of Gratitude
Written to Joken-bo and Gijo-bo on July 21, 1276

Daily Wisdom -The Problem to Be Pondered Night and Day

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, January 21, 2011:

I hope all those who are serious in their resolve will gather in one place and listen to this letter.

The Problem to Be Pondered Night and Day
Written to Toki Jonin on August 12, 1275

Daily Wisdom - Strengthen your resolve more than ever.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, January 20, 2011:

Strengthen your resolve more than ever. Ice is made of water, but it is colder than water. Blue dye comes from indigo, but when something is repeatedly dyed in it, the color is better than that of the indigo plant. The Lotus Sutra remains the same, but if you repeatedly strengthen your resolve, your color will be better than that of others, and you will receive more blessings than they do.

The Supremacy of the Law
Written to Oto and her mother, Nichimyo, on August 4, 1275

Daily Wisdom - Good Fortune in This Life

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, January 19, 2011:

It is certain that, even if there were an age when the sun rises in the west, or a time were to come when the moon emerges from the ground, the Buddha's words would never prove false. Judging from this, there cannot be the least doubt that your late father is now in the presence of Shakyamuni Buddha, the lord of teachings, and that you will receive great blessings in your present existence. How wonderful, how splendid!

Good Fortune in This Life
Written to Nanjo Tokimitsu on January 19, 1276

Daily Wisdom - Many in Body, One in Mind

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, January 18, 2011:

If the spirit of many in body but one in mind prevails among the people, they will achieve all their goals, whereas if one in body but different in mind, they can achieve nothing remarkable.

Many in Body, One in Mind
Written to the lay priest Takahashi on August 6, year unknown

Daily Wisdom - On Prayer

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, January 17, 2011:

Though one might point at the earth and miss it, though one might bind up the sky, though the tides might cease to ebb and flow and the sun rise in the west, it could never come about that the prayers of the practitioner of the Lotus Sutra would go unanswered.

On Prayer
Written to Sairen-bo in September 1272

Daily Wisdom - Drive and initiative of Nichiren Daishonin

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, January 16, 2011:

It is the way of ordinary people that, even though they spur themselves on to arouse the aspiration for enlightenment and wish for happiness in the next life, they exert themselves no more than one or two out of all the hours of the day, and this only after reminding themselves to do so. As for myself, I read the Lotus Sutra without having to remember to, and practice it even when I do not read its words aloud.

The Four Debts of Gratitude
Written to Kudo Sakon-no-jo Yoshitaka on January 16, 1262

Daily Wisdom - Importance of a solid foundation

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, January 15, 2011:

When a tree has been transplanted, though fierce winds may blow, it will not topple if it has a firm stake to hold it up. But even a tree that has grown up in place may fall over if its roots are weak. Even a feeble person will not stumble if those supporting him are strong, but a person of considerable strength, when alone, may fall down on an uneven path.

Three Tripitaka Masters Pray for Rain
Written to the lay priest Nishiyama on June 22, 1275

Daily Wisdom - The joyfulness of chant the daimoku

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, January 14, 2011:

Therefore, when you chant the daimoku of this sutra, you should be aware that it is a more joyful thing than for one who was born blind to gain sight and see one's father and mother, and a rarer thing than for a man who has been seized by a powerful enemy to be released and reunited with his wife and children.

The Daimoku of the Lotus Sutra
Recipient unknown; written on January 6, 1266

Daily Wisdom

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, January 13, 2011:

The sutra states, "If there are those who hear the Law, then not a one will fail to attain Buddhahood." This means that, even if one were to point at the earth and miss it, even if the sun and moon should fall to the ground, even if an age should come when the tides cease to ebb and flow, or even if flowers should not turn to fruit in summer, it could never happen that a woman who chants Nam-myoho-renge-kyo would fail to be reunited with her beloved child. Continue in your devotion to faith, and bring this about quickly!",.

The Gift of Clear Sake
Written to the lay nun Ueno on January 13, 1281

Remember the Small Things

Spiritual Story by Mother Teresa

Some of my sisters work in Australia. On a reservation, among the Aborigines, there was an elderly man. I can assure you that you have never seen a situation as difficult as that poor old man's. He was completely ignored by everyone. His home was disordered and dirty.

I told him, "Please, let me clean your house, wash your clothes, and make your bed." He answered, "I'm okay like this. Let it be."

I said again, "You will be still better if you allow me to do it."

He finally agreed. So I was able to clean his house and wash his clothes. I discovered a beautiful lamp, covered with dust. Only God knows how many years had passed since he last lit it.

I said to him, "Don't you light your lamp? Don't you ever use it?"

He answered, "No. No one comes to see me. I have no need to light it. Who would I light it for?"

I asked, "Would you light it every night if the sisters came?"

He replied, "Of course."

From that day on the sisters committed themselves to visiting him every evening. We cleaned the lamp, and the sisters would light it every evening.

Two years passed. I had completely forgotten that man. He sent this message: "Tell my friend that the light she lit in my life continues to shine still."

I thought it was a very small thing. We often neglect small things.

Daily Wisdom - How, then, are you to go about nurturing faith in the Lotus Sutra?

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, January 12, 2011:

How, then, are you to go about nurturing faith in the Lotus Sutra? For if you try to practice the teachings of the sutra without faith, it would be like trying to enter a jeweled mountain without hands [to pick up its treasures], or like trying to make a thousand-mile journey without feet. The answer is simply to examine the proof that is close at hand, and thus take hold of faith that is far off.

Letter to Horen
Written to Soya Kyoshin in April 1275

Daily Wisdom - Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is like the roar of a lion.

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Tuesday, January 11, 2011:
The lion king is said to advance three steps, then gather himself to spring, unleashing the same power whether he traps a tiny ant or attacks a fierce animal. In inscribing this Gohonzon for [your daughter's] protection, Nichiren was like the lion king. This is what the sutra means by "the power [of the Buddhas] that has the lion's ferocity." Believe in this mandala with all your heart. Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is like the roar of a lion. What sickness can therefore be an obstacle?"

Reply to Kyo'o
Written Kyo'o and her parents, Nichigen-nyo and Shijo Kingo, on August 15, 1273

Reincarnation of a Raindrop

Spiritual Story by Bruce Bevens

The essence of the raindrop was in a transitory vibration of flux as it hovered in another dimension. Again it had been called home by the enticing warmth of the Sun. It was remembering past existences as a raindrop and enjoying the feelings that he felt through each one. Those experiences represented a millions of raindrop existences to remember over eons of time. However, those experiences came to him easily and seemed to last no time at all.

The ebb and flow of each existence was both smooth and turbulent but filled with a power that was exhilarating and wonderful. Its co-existence with all of Nature, including plants, trees, animals, fish, soil and rocks, was so natural. Its very vibration increased and lightened as it continued to recall until he got to the point in the recollection of a new part of Nature called a human. Its vibration slowed and became heavier.

"I see that you have reached that point of remembering again,"� said a large, hovering vibration that was just above him.

"Excuse me," the raindrop said. "Who are you?"�

"I am your Guardian Essence that watches over you and helps you through this transitory state," replied the vibration.

"You have reached the human episodes of your existences. I can tell by your vibration.
How are you dealing with it?"� the Guardian added.

"It confuses me, started the raindrop. " For many lifetimes in the beginning of humans in Nature, they seemed to be a part of that very Nature. They showed respect to the animals, plants and all living things and even rejoiced in my coming back to Earth to be among them. Even today, there are those humans that exist that same way"�at one with Nature. But for the most part, there is a lack of respect for any of us in Nature by the human."�

"What do you mean?" asked the Guardian.

Well when I am flowing so freely with the other raindrops and we are feeling so exhilarated and so full of the power of existence, they curse us and call us floods and disasters. They throw alien things into us so that our vibrations of energy are so slowed and anemic that we can barely sustain the fish, animals, plants and even many of the humans that need us for nourishment.

And there are cases where the human has made us and the soil poison to all living things. This would sometimes happen in Nature even before the human, but not anywhere near as flagrantly as by the humans. There are times now that when I fall from the clouds that I am already tainted by the effects of the humans before I even reach the ground."�

"Yes,"� said the Guardian, "this has been noted."�

"I am not the only one who experiences their thoughtlessness and sometimes downright maliciousness,"� added the raindrop.

As soon as he said that, the raindrop and the Guardian were surrounded by a myriad of vibrating essences.

"Yes, we, too, have been affected as the raindrop has said," spoke up a member of the mammal essences. "Us too," added a member of the plant essences. "We have all lost family, home, space and dignity to the human way of life. Some of it is how it should be in the Nature of things but so much of it is not, as the raindrop has said." The insect essences and then all areas of the fish, reptile and bird essences chimed in as well.

"We have been forced to live in the cities among them," a Coyote essence snapped. "And so have many of us," chanted a throng of raccoon, squirrel, rabbits, and other specie essences. "We have no other place to hunt," growled a Puma essence. We have to eat their so-called pets and sometimes we even have to hunt humans to survive. We find that we are no longer appreciated as a part of Nature but as something that should be eliminated. This is not true of all humans, as raindrop said, but of so, so many. They seem to outweigh the ones who do care."�

Representatives of specie after specie related similar accounts of how they felt about the negative role of the human in Nature. Then one very old essence who said that it represented an assortment of species, spoke up. "I have lived countless lifetimes as various species as have many of those who have spoken before me. Another very disturbing fact is that there are those species that we can never experience in life again. They have become extinct, thanks to the humans' encroachment and willful destruction either through their own selfish need, greed or downright apathy. We are beginning to feel out of sync with the ebb and flow."�

"And what do you suggest?" asked the Guardian.

"We have a proposal�", answered the raindrop essence.

"I'm listening," remarked the Guardian.

"No matter how many of us it takes, we would like to combine our energies and return to Earth as a human. Maybe, we, as a human, can be instrumental in helping the other humans see what we experience and be instrumental in somehow restoring a balance in Nature."�

Do you think that one human alone can accomplish this monumental task single handedly?"� questioned the Guardian.

"Perhaps not, but it would be a start. We can join with other humans who feel the same way. Besides we want to learn what it means to be human and what they see their place in Nature to be. Then, when we return to the transitory state again, after being human, we can share that with the rest of the species in transition."�

"A most enterprising proposal, my little raindrop."� "As you know, anything is possible in the Universe. So I will grant you that request and will gather, from all of you, the energy it will require for that particular incarnation, stated the Guardian. "By the way, is their anything in particular, other than what you have told me, you want to learn from this human experiment?"�

The raindrop brightened his vibration and hummed at a higher frequency.

"Oh yes," replied the raindrop excitedly. "We have all picked up vibrations of the humans while we are in our transitions and they are in their transitions as well. It seeps into our essences and it's a strange sense that we get from them. There appears to be a common theme that runs through all their past existences and it seems to be the mantra of the humans. Whatever it is, we don't have any experience with it. It's not compatible with the ebb and flow that we know to be the way of Nature. And it seems so profound that we must know what it truly means. We must experience it too."�

"And what is that one thing that you hope to learn from this experience as a human?" asked the guardian

"It sounds so simple, but seems to be so important to them when they go over their past lives. It seems to rule their lives in some way,"� answered the raindrop.

"And what is that, my raindrop?" queried the Guardian.

"To Err."

Recovering from Autism

Spiritual Story by M Giyton

I have never known an agony like this. I remember walking my child downstairs early one morning, and placing her in front of her favorite toys, trying hard not to pay to much attention to what would eventually become inescapable. The truth that my once typical child was now living in someone else's world. A world which she did not recognize.

No amount of desperation that played itself in the form of our once everyday activities was enough to bring her back to the world we once knew together. A time when I was her and she were me. A love shared by no other. To have my child taken from me that day played over and over in my mind.

I made excuses for her inability to react as she once did to friends and family members. Too afraid to believe the inevitable truth that lay behind what I would have to accept eventually. I felt paranoid and fearful of the questions they asked, and asked each other when I was gone. I tried hard not to expose her and myself to their questions, and my questions about what had happened to my precious child. I made excuses to family or friends who wanted to visit, prepared with reasons why we couldn't get together in the joys of what had eventually been robbed from me. My child was gone, and I was desperate. I made excuses hoping, praying that one day she would return to me as she was before.

I became angry and detached from the world I once knew. I resented what had happened to me, and somehow blamed her for what was lacking in a world I had perfectly crafted and imagined. Our bond was broken and I knew it would never return. The agony stayed with me in breath and being. The loss became me, and bore me.

It was my husband's constant mental battering that something was very wrong with our child that woke me up from the fog that day. The evidence was a brutal awakening from a long anesthetized existence. I had to face what my life was realistically and practically, and the realization was transforming. That was when my real journey began.

I remember crying night and day for almost a week, releasing a pressure that almost left me deflated and lifeless. The pretense and aftershock was gone, and in its place the emptiness was replaced with hopeful inquisition. A need, and desire to do whatever I had to do to help my child recover from this world that had taken her. Our life's one true mission was to bring her back to us. I stopped mourning the child I had been expecting to have and embraced the child we did have. Both my husband and I were ready to do what we had to do to save her.

My story with God started that day as a stranger. I was never really exposed to him as I should have been as a child. No relationship established, no relationship missed. He was extinct in a world I had created for myself and my family. He only existed when there were weddings, and funerals, to pay respect in momentary madness, but never involved in the journey that had taken me this far in my life.

With the pain that unfolded I realized how selfish I had been, how ungrateful and expectant I had become. There was real desire emerging to fulfill my relationship with God, and be grateful for what I had been given. Not how robbed I had been that my child had been taken from me, but what I had taken for granted in the past and had lost.

We educated ourselves absorbing books by the dozen, conventional and holistic appointments, as many as our schedule would allow, until we came up with some hopeful resolve. We changed her diet, and dramatically maximized her therapy schedule to keep her engaged at every opportunity. She was pushed to the limit as much as our financial and mental capability would allow.

My husband left us for one year to work overseas for a contractor to make enough money to keep her in full time therapy. The sacrifice was immense, and all encompassing. The fear I lived with hoping my husband wouldn't be taken by explosives, to the fear my child would be 18 and never know her name took its toll on me at times.

This pain was restored early by glimpses of hope I saw in my child when she made great steps forward. and continued to soar into recovery. My child is four now and well on her way to starting regular kindergarten next year. The pain and suffering was worth everyday to be able to rejoice in what we have, and what we have found and realized.

I remember lying next to my child at night when she fell asleep, feeling my warm breath on her skin, being grateful for the smiles and love she had given me since we had met. Praying for forgiveness to God for taking her love and life for granted in the past, and praying, for a miracle every night for my child's body to be restored. I can say now that I believe in the power of prayer. I believe God has walked with us throughout our journey. Protected my husband and restored my child and our life. My relationship with him is one I live with through my family in thanks and gratitude.

Daily Wisdom - The True Aspect of All Phenomena

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Monday, January 10, 2011:

There should be no discrimination among those who propagate the five characters of Myoho-renge-kyo in the Latter Day of the Law, be they men or women. Were they not Bodhisattvas of the Earth, they could not chant the daimoku.

The True Aspect of All Phenomena
Written to Sairen-bo Nichijo on May 17, 1273

Daily Wisdom - How Those Initially Aspiring to the Way Can Attain Buddhahood through the Lotus Sutra

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Sunday, January 9, 2011:

When we revere Myoho-renge-kyo inherent in our own life as the object of devotion, the Buddha nature within us is summoned forth and manifested by our chanting of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. This is what is meant by "Buddha." To illustrate, when a caged bird sings, birds who are flying in the sky are thereby summoned and gather around, and when the birds flying in the sky gather around, the bird in the cage strives to get out. When with our mouths we chant the Mystic Law, our Buddha nature, being summoned, will invariably emerge.

How Those Initially Aspiring to the Way Can Attain Buddhahood through the Lotus Sutra
Written to the lay nun Myoho in 1277

Daily Wisdom - The Lotus Sutra is the king of sutras

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Saturday, January 8, 2011:

The Lotus Sutra is the king of sutras, the direct path to enlightenment, for it explains that the entity of our life, which manifests either good or evil at each moment, is in fact the entity of the Mystic Law. If you chant Myoho-renge-kyo with deep faith in this principle, you are certain to attain Buddhahood in this lifetime.

On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime
Written to Toki Jonin in 1255

Daily Wisdom - The truth of Myoho-renge-kyo

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Friday, January 7, 2011:

If you wish to free yourself from the sufferings of birth and death you have endured since time without beginning and to attain without fail unsurpassed enlightenment in this lifetime, you must perceive the mystic truth that is originally inherent in all living beings. This truth is Myoho-renge-kyo. Chanting Myoho-renge-kyo will therefore enable you to grasp the mystic truth innate in all life.

On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime
Written to Toki Jonin in 1255

Poor Celain

Spiritual Story by Keith Beasley

Tibeta was, as usual, doing her best to keep a low profile. With her head down she sat behind the counter of her aunt's china shop. Surreptitiously she was reading her favourite ancient parables, but carefully enclosed in one of her aunt's books on business etiquette. She knew that if Celain caught her reading this forbidden material she'd be for the high jump.

As Tibeta had grown up, she'd learnt that the only way to get any sort of kindness from Celain was to obey her to the letter. There was just no argument with this strong, hard, woman who had taken her in when her parents had died suddenly. Her mum's sister she may have been, but there the resemblance ended: no gentleness, no openness, just a stern, over-bearing presence.

Things had improved slightly when Celain realised that Tibeta was actually a real benefit to her business: having a patient, smiling, face in her shop had encouraged the customers to not just come in but to stop and buy from her extensive range of pots and ornaments, ancient and modern. But, despite the increased sales, Tibeta herself benefited little from the store's profits... despite her aunt's assertions that she should be grateful for everything she had.

In speaking with her customers, especially when Celain was out buying stock, Tibeta had began to realise that she was not so alone with her feelings as she'd thought... nor did she need to fear having nowhere else to go or work. On a number of occasions her clear voice and wise words had been complimented and recently she'd even had the boss of their main competitor, Pots-R-Us - a much larger chain of stores, ask her to work for him!

As Celain sensed her niece's growing frustration and freedom of thought, she clamped down even more on Tibeta's physical freedom: she tightened the nightly curfew and took away her house key... which made Tibeta even more determined to break free. But Tibeta knew there was still no point trying to reason with her aunt, or to stand up to her physically, so she watched and waited. She'd also managed to obtain, through Caroline, one of her regular customers, some books on happiness... and on the root causes of misery.

Whilst reading this ancient wisdom and modern psychology, Tibeta began to see that her aunt really couldn't help the way she was: Tibeta herself could just remember her dictatorial grandfather and the way he rigidly controlled everybody and everything. She shuddered to think of him. Poor Celain she thought, sadly. Then burst out laughing at her own pun: porcelain! How appropriate for the owner of a china shop! Tibeta's mind took the parallels deeper: how fragile they both are! she realised. Just as all the plates and vases would chip at the slightest knock and break apart so easily, so her aunt would snap at the slightly thing out of place. Anything disturbing Celain's precise boundaries and she'd go to pieces too! All her toughness was just a front, like the glaze on her finest china pieces.

As the young Tibeta came to realise this, so she developed an understanding, and even compassion, for her aunt... and remembered to show Celain gratitude for taking her in and looking after her. Celain didn't really know what to make of this, being so unused to kindness, but in the privacy or her own room, she smiled to herself... and even began to imagine that Tibeta was her own daughter!

At this time their town was playing host to a big basketball tournament. Teams from miles around had gathered, followed by busloads of their enthusiastic fans. And so the streets were full of visitors, many trying to emulate their sporting stars by bouncing or keeping aloft their own basketballs. Needless to say, Celain was not at all impressed by such behaviour and had immediately put up a big sign banning balls from her shop.

One day, as Tibeta was minding the store, a group of five young men, each juggling a basketball, stopped outside the window and looked in. Fit and healthy looking, Tibeta could not help but stare at them. They smiled back and waved to her. As they came to the door to come in, the young lady blushed. Then quickly seeing her aunt's sign she panicked and pointed at it to the boys on the doorstep.

Shaking her head fearfully she pleaded with them not to come in. But the boys, being boys, just smiled all the more broadly and bounced their five balls over the threshold. Tibeta couldn't help but notice that they were all different colours: one red, one blue, one yellow, one green and one black. But that didn't help her. What could she do, her aunt would have a fit... but these young men were really fit too!... and handsome. They were in the shop now, still bouncing their basketballs in-between the displays of vases and plates... and asking her all sorts of personal questions. They were nice guys... and they seemed skilful enough.

At that moment poor Celain appeared at the door: the others had been too interested in each other to notice her approach. OUT she ordered with a vengeful stare and pointing finger. It was all too much for the boys who immediately lost their smiles... and their ball control skills. One after the other the basketballs went crashing into piles of cups and onto priceless ornaments. Within just a few minutes the whole shop was a mass of broken crockery.

As sporting the boys may have been, the shop looked like a massacre site and they could see from the fuming features of the owner that they could be the next victims. They fled. Faster than Tibeta had ever seen anybody run before. Her aunt strode out of the shop after them, shaking her fist.

It was some minutes before she returned and surveyed the devastation. Her jaw dropped and Tibeta could see tears forming in the corner of her aunt's eyes... although she frantically tried to brush them aside. Feeling her compassion well up inside her and genuine affection for the older women, Tibeta rushed to her aunt's side and put her arms around her waist, holding to her. Initially Celain resisted, but not for long. Soon her decades of held back tears had broken through the floodgates. She sobbed. She reciprocated the hug and held her wonderful niece to her, tightly.

The shop was closed, with shutters down, for a week after that. When it reopened, at first glance, little had chanced, Tibeta still sat behind the counter and a similar range of china-wear was on display. But now she read her ancient wisdom openly. Now she had her own key and no curfew. Now she had her share of the profits... to spend on dates with basketball players.

Pools

Spiritual Story by Pete Hughes

Through the cold winter wasteland he trudged, leaning into the harsh wind which spitefully tried to force him back. He was covered from head to toe in layers of thick clothing, layers of protection against the harsh environment. On he fought, searching, searching. He was working so hard. This must be the way.

In the distance he saw what looked like steam rising out of the ground. It rose a few feet and then was quickly whipped away by the biting wind. He altered his course and turned towards the steam, gaining some blessed relief as he turned his chapped face out of the gale. As he got closer, he thought he could make out voices. Their tone was unfamiliar to him - musical, relaxed and warm - their melody enticed him closer. Finally he got close enough to peer through the mist.

There before him was a remarkable sight. In the midst of the frozen wasteland, cut into the ground was a large pool. Several people were in the pool, they seemed to be floating easily without any effort. As they saw him approach, a woman called out to him.

"Come in here. It is lovely and warm. You can just lie back and relax," said the woman.

"I can't. There are no steps." The man replied.

"Just jump in. It really is lovely in here. Come on. There's plenty of room for another." Another of the floaters joined in the persuasion.

"But what if I don't like it, how will I get out? The sides are too high to reach up to."

"Believe me, you won't want to get out. Come on. It is so good in here."

He stood for a moment, paralysed with indecision. It looked so much like the answer, but how could it be this easy? Just jump in? Lie back and relax? It couldn't be that simple. It must be a trick. He could not trust them. There was no way out if he changed his mind. He blocked out their warm invitations and once more filled his mind with grim determination.

On he trudged. Hours passed and his shadow grew long. Then once again in the distance he saw another cloud of rising steam. Entering the mist, a similar sight greeted him once more.

"Come in here. You don't have to be cold any more," said one of the bathers in a gentle voice. All the faces in the pool turned to look at him. Warm smiles reached out to him but his eyes could not perceive them.

"How do I get in? I can't see any steps. You are a long way down." He asked once again.

"Just jump in. It is very deep. You will be quite safe."

"But what if I want to get out? What if I get tired and cannot stay afloat any longer?"

"This is not like normal water, we are kept afloat without any effort. I promise you, you really will not want to get out."

"But my clothes will get wet and their weight will drag me down."

"You can remove all those layers. You will not need their protection in here. It is always beautifully warm."

But he could not bring himself to do that. Those layers were his protection, accumulated over the years to keep out the bitter cold. How could he now discard them, just like that? How could he allow himself to be so exposed?

On he trudged. Darkness came and the temperature dropped still further. Snow began to fall and the wind drove it into his face. Walking blind he carried on.

Then suddenly he felt some warmth in the air and the ground disappeared beneath him. With a scream he fell and his fall was broken with a splash. Panic overcame him and he thrashed around desperately until his hands touched a wall and he clawed at the smooth surface, loudly cursing the futility of it.

Then suddenly he heard a soft voice beside him. '"Shhhh. It's OK. It's OK," said the voice in beautiful feminine tones. "Just relax. You will be OK." Then he felt her hands moving over his body, searching then loosening his winter clothing. Layer after layer was gently removed, her voice continuing to sooth his panic until eventually he could feel the wonderful warmth of the water directly against his skin. "It's OK," She said once more as she held him close in the dark. For the first time since he could remember, he fully relaxed and quickly drifted off into a much needed sleep in her arms.

He awoke to a wonderful new dawn. He gazed into the beautiful eyes of his rescuer and felt the wonderful warmth of the water around him. Then he heard footsteps above. A weary man dressed head to foot in winter furs peered over the edge of the pool.

"Come in here!" He quickly shouted to the man. "It is so wonderful in here!"

"But what if I don't like it? How will I get back out?" The man asked.

"Believe me. You really won't want to get out," he assured the man.

Daily Wisdom - The good fortune one receives from simply chanting the daimoku

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Thursday, January 6, 2011:

The Lotus Sutra of the Correct Law says that, if one hears this sutra and proclaims and embraces its title, one will enjoy merit beyond measure. And the Supplemented Lotus Sutra of the Wonderful Law says that one who accepts and upholds the name of the Lotus Sutra will enjoy immeasurable good fortune. These statements indicate that the good fortune one receives from simply chanting the daimoku is beyond measure.

The Daimoku of the Lotus Sutra
Recipient unknown; written on January 6, 1266

Daily Wisdom - Where does exactly hell and the Buddha exist?

From the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin
Wednesday, January 5, 2011:

First of all, as to the question of where exactly hell and the Buddha exist, one sutra states that hell exists underground, and another sutra says that the Buddha is in the west. Closer examination, however, reveals that both exist in our five-foot body. This must be true because hell is in the heart of a person who inwardly despises his father and disregards his mother. It is like the lotus seed, which contains both blossom and fruit. In the same way, the Buddha dwells within our hearts.

New Year's Gosho
Written to the wife of Omosu on January 5, year unknown