To My Friends December 27th 2018 Always remember to smile. A warm smile brightens your own heart and that of others. A smile is the cause for creating happiness rather than its effect.

Proclaiming “This is my vow,”(*) let’s make a sweeping advance with the spirit of many in body, one in mind, together with our worldwide treasured friends, fellow Bodhisattvas of the Earth. Let’s courageously exert ourselves in the “two ways of practice and study” with our lives brimming with profound joy and buoyant spirits! (*)”Opening of the Eyes, Part Two,” WND I p. 281 “This is my vow, and I will never forsake it!”

Society changes quickly. Don’t be a slave to convention. Come up with fresh, innovative ideas. Be a protagonist of the era who   is always learning and thinking! Tentative translation of “To My Friends” published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda’s recent guidance.

Everyone has a leading role   at our discussion meetings! Let’s share our experiences of breaking   through our own limitations and the   joy we have gained through faith. Courage begets courage, and the   momentum for advance accelerates.

Make safety and remaining accident-free   a number one priority. Young women’s and women’s division   members, observe the “home by ten”   guideline for returning home from activities. Please also have consideration for the neighbors. Let’s all exercise “[our] usual prudence”(*)

Our founding spirit is   “the stand alone spirit.” Let’s resolutely dance onto our stage   to carry out our vow for kosen-rufu   as Bodhisattvas of the Earth!  Now, more than ever, let’s accomplish   our human revolution! Tentative translation of “Words of the Week” published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda’s recent guidance.

The Soka Gakkai is an organization for sharing Nichiren Buddhism with others. Let’s initiate conversations with people with whom we have a connection, sowing seeds of faith with dialogue that brings smiles to their faces and inspires them with conviction. Have confidence that the seeds you sow will definitely bloom!

The value of the springtime of   youth is not determined by one’s   position or superficial posturing. Those who are undergoing training   in the young men’s division “academy”,  chronicle a golden personal history   as you embrace in your heart   the supreme philosophy of life! Tentative translation of “To My Friends” published in the Seikyo Shimbun, based on President Ikeda’s recent guidance.

The accumulation of small   efforts will create a great self. Breakthrough each wall of resistance,   telling yourself, “I will try one more time,”  “I will challenge myself five more minutes.”

Take precautions to deal with sudden drops in   temperature in the mornings  and evenings,   as well as extreme fluctuations throughout the day. Take full preventative measures to not catch cold! Good health is the foundation for happiness.