Difficulties | Words of Wisdom by Daisaku Ikeda

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Life is a constant battle against deadlock. As long as we are alive, as long as we continue challenging ourselves, we are bound to come up against difficult obstacles that need to be overcome. If life were all smooth sailing, if we never encountered setbacks, that in itself would be a sign of stagnation.

Pain and sorrow cultivate the vast earth of your inner being, so you can bring forth the beautiful flower of the desire to work for the happiness of others.

No one can better bask in summer’s balm than those who have endured winter’s bite. Similarly, it is those who have suffered through life’s darkest hours who are able to truly savor the bright dawn of happiness. The person who has transformed the worst of fate into the best of fortune is life’s champion.

Rise to the challenges that life presents you. You can’t develop genuine character and ability by sidestepping adversity and struggle.

Even places that have been shrouded in darkness for billions of years can be illuminated. Even a stone from the bottom of a river can be used to produce fire. Our present sufferings, no matter how dark, have certainly not continued for billions of years—nor will they linger forever. The sun will definitely rise. In fact, its ascent has already begun.

Defeat lies not in failing or making mistakes; rather, it lies in giving up on ourselves when we do so.

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Following the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami in Japan in March 2011, Ikeda applauds the hope, strength and resilience of those battling to rebuild their lives and communities.

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Facing Challenges

Whilst the stark truth is that hardship and difficulties are inevitable and inescapable, the definitive question may be whether we yield under their weight or use them as an opportunity to better ourselves. Read here ...

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Stories of Hope by Daisaku Ikeda

Stories of Hope

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