My little friends, have you heard of Japan’s Mount Fuji? Mount Fuji is located in the suburbs of Tokyo, it is also one of the world’s most beautiful summit. The white snow covered mountain peak, is the talk of the whole Japan. No matter how great the fury of the storm it confronts, Mount Fuji will always remain firm and unbending to it. We must all possess this spirit alike!

In our daily lives there are always times when we would set up a new objective for ourselves. For example: setting new objectives for your studies, setting goals for a competition, a wish for a happy family or to enthusiastically strive for a new goal and so on. How can we achieve them? How do we gain victory? The secret to our victory is determination. We must all possess the determination that is as firm as Mount Fuji so that no matter what criticism or opposition we may face, we would still remain steadfast to our resolve and achieve our goal.

Mr. Ikeda said: ‘At what age is a person’s victory or defeat determined? I believe it is determined when they reach their 50s. Although a person may be successful in their 20s or 30s, the crucial age to determine everything is still in one’s 50s.’ Mr. Ikeda is 82 years old now, on the second of January next year he will be 83. Despite his age, his determination for the sake of happiness for all humanity and peace throughout the world never stops him from his propagation activities, till this present day, he still holds fast to his determination. Our mentor succeeded; he gained victory!

What about us? When we are young, it is very easy for us to set any determinations or goals. But to be able to carry it out and persist is where the problem arises. Whenever we set a goal, we must bear the responsibility and have the determination to accomplish it! We must not allow our environment or people influence to us or doubt ourselves. We ought to have faith in ourselves and with a very firm determination believe that we will definitely achieve our goals.

In Mr. Ikeda’s ‘New Human Revolution – ‘an artist wanted to buy a house in France. When he told sensei about his intention, Mr. Ikeda was extremely happy and fully supportive and encouraged him that he must vow for the sake of kosen rufu to wholeheartedly chant for the happiness and prosperity of the country. Mr. Ikeda raised an example and said: ‘I vow to wholeheartedly start afresh for the sake of kosen rufu in France to gain the trust of the people and society as well as to contribute a meeting place for everyone. I need a house, please grant me a big and nice house.

One year later, although he had no fixed income or any savings, he obtained the Public Banking Institution’s financial loan. And one month before Mr Ikeda’s visit, he bought a beautiful house and welcomed Mr. Ikeda’s arrival.

Therefore, no matter what problem we face, we mustn’t feel disheartened or dejected. Among Leo Tolstoy’s greatest works, ‘War and Peace’ there is a quote which says ‘a battle is won by a person who firmly resolves to win it.’ One who resolved to work hard and gain victory will emerge victorious in their lives.

From now on, as you venture into your life journeys, there will definitely be times when you feel tired and harbor doubts or resentment. During those times, please look up to Mount Fuji. It is my fervent wish that you will remain firm and continually strengthen your resolve over and over again under any criticism or struggles and with that determination, you are definitely progressing towards the course of continuous advancement.

You must first of all be a compassionate and humane person, a person of fortitude so that no matter what obstacles or problems may arise, a person of great resilience and strength who can withstand anything. It is my fervent wish that you will never be discouraged under any circumstances.

Labels: e. Words of mentor