Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Be the leading role, or stay behind the scene?

Question: In order to improve the solidarity of the class, other than being a leader, playing a part behind the scene would be a good way as well. But which serves the better?


Answer:

The first president, Makiguchi Sensei once said that the evolution of human being should start from a ‘life that relies on others’ and further develop into an ‘independent life’ which eventually grow into a ‘life that contributes’. Your willingness in seeking the betterment of the class is truly passionate and exceptional. It is worth of respect and admiration.

In your opinion, there are two types of people who will help to make the class more outstanding. The first are the vivacious and active leaders, the second being those who silently contribute without a word from the back scene. Who do you think you are from the above? This is a question about your personality. Ikeda Sensei once said “Everyone has their own personality, and this will determine the quality of us in person by referring to our personality. I think by working your fullest to one of the above roles you genuinely think you are in person would contribute to an infinite outcome.” If you truly believe you are the person, please work to your fullest in that role u may hold.

However, if you could not make up your mind, it would be of no matter. Socrates once said that life is a long journey of self-discovery! You’re only in high school currently, fret not but to do your part well and give your best in each tasks delegated. That would be already a great contribution.

Nichiren Daishonin once stated that Cherry, plum, peach and damson blossoms all have their own qualities, and they manifest the three properties of the life of the Buddha without changing their character.” Everyone would have their own qualities. Blossom the flower of yours sincerely. But in order to succeed in an occasion, there are two key elements which are competence and fortune. Now you are situated in the learning stage, by only learning hard and giving your best , you would gradually achieve your competence. Competence does not comprise of only homework but your courage, wisdom and endurance from every aspect. The competence in work can be earned by practices, while the competence in personality can be earned by involving ourselves in the Gakkai’s activity. How about fate? Through faith, action and learning, we could earn ourselves faith. This includes having faith in chanting (faith), participating in High School Division’s activity (action), study well from books and guidance (learning).

Health, knowledge, and expertise are the ‘treasure of the body’, while personality and fortune are the ‘treasure of heart’. As we grow older and wiser, we would come to the revelation that the ‘treasure of heart’ is the key factor to attaining victory. Other than that, you could chant for your dream as well. With that, you manifest yourself better as your hard work paid off!

You might have been aware that Gakkai is a place where we encourage one another. Actually, everyone needs encouragement. Same goes to your classmates. Other than working hard as an individual, you must also encourage and motivate them. By doing so, you are not only giving yourself encouragement but helping others manifest their part as well. This would be the best contribution to the class! Wish you luck!


A reply from Fang ChaoYu






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