Why doesn’t constant trampling defeat the dandelion? The key to its strength is its long and sturdy root, which extends deep into the earth. The same principle applies to people. The true victors in life are those who, enduring repeated challenges and setbacks have sent the roots of their being to such a depth that nothing can shake them.
-    Mr. Ikeda

Regardless of any difficulties we face, we mustn’t shrink back submissively and bow down to anyone. People who bear a sense of pride, confidence, brimming with vigour and live their life with righteousness, such people are truly happy. If life has always been smooth sailing, we won’t be able to experience true happiness. Even though there are precipitous mountains and rivers, one who could calmly and fearlessly overcome all obstacles can truly appreciate the value of life and continue to advance. In this case, there will only be the sense of fulfillment and not a slightest hint of regret. 

The word ‘Tolerate’ as expounded in ‘The Lotus Sutra’ means forbearance. In this world filled with hardship and miseries, carrying such ‘I will not give in to any obstacles’ such obstinate spirit of a lion king is indeed a Buddha. Is your life firmly rooted or are you merely living a materialistic life? The benchmark of our life lies in us, it lies in our hearts. 

Have you heard of the story of Beethoven? He had an unfortunate childhood. Beethoven’s grandfather Lodewijk van Beethoven and his father are singers of the court of the Elector of Cologne. His father is drunk most of the time and never treats his family politely, he never even asked whether the household necessities is sufficient for the family.  Beethoven’s father would often drag him to the keyboard and forced him to practice for a few hours and slap him every time he makes a mistake. Their neighbours often hear the poor child cry to sleep from exhaustion and pain.

Carrying the passion towards music as well as the spirit of never bowing down to fate, Beethoven eventually became a great musician. Even when he started to lose his hearing, Beethoven never give up. Mr. Ikeda also said: ‘Never let yourself be defeated and keep attaining victory wherever you are. Don’t compare yourself with others and continue walking on the path of your noble mission with pride and become a trustworthy and righteous person who keeps advancing. Such people are happy and true victors in life!’
The young sapling which grows in a cliff cannot grow straight upwards. On the other hand, saplings which are cultivated in a greenhouse grow very quickly but cannot withstand strong winds and rain. To be able to grow freely and withstand the severe tests of nature, for a child, it is precisely the happiest path of life.

That is the spirit of the dandelion. Although it is just an ordinary wild flower, it strives to grow no matter how harsh its environment may be and never gives up. It has a very obstinate life force that no matter how hard it was hit by the strong winds, it will still continue to spread its pollen and continue to grow in other areas.

It will grow into beautiful flowers in muddy area and its seeds will only sprout in mud. In the same way, do not grudge mud (adversities), instead, view it as a good influence and uphold a firm faith. At that point, your life condition will be elevated. Regardless what difficulties you may confront, as long as you uphold an absolute determination and persevere until the end, there will be no obstacles which you cannot surmount. People with strong life force who never admit to defeat in adversities, carrying hope and the spirit to strive until the end in the face of uncertainties with resolute prayers to the Gohonzon as well as well prepared in every areas and confronts all difficulties and obstacles with actions will definitely succeed in all their endeavours!

Labels: e. Words of mentor