COURAGE

COURAGE

"The important thing is to take that first step. Bravely overcoming one small fear gives you the courage to take on the next."

"It takes courage to become happy -- courage to remain true to one's convictions, courage not to be defeated by one's weaknesses and negativity, courage to take swift action to help those who are suffering."No matter how wonderful our dreams, how noble our ideals, or how high our hopes, ultimately we need courage ...to make them a reality. Without action, it's as if they never existed."

"If you summon your courage to challenge something, you'll never be left with regret. How sad it is to spend your life wishing, "If only I'd had a little more courage." Whatever the outcome may be, the important thing is to step forward on the path that you believe is right."

"Fearing hardships and bemoaning and resenting our environment is to live with the belief that the Law is outside our own life. So is losing confidence in our ability to overcome our circumstances and turning to others in the hope that they will save us, or blaming others for our problems, or giving in to hoplessness and resignation.

  

When difficulties beset us, no matter how trying they may be, we must clearly see them for the obstacles or devilish functions they are and battle against them without retreating. This is the way of life of those who chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and dedicate their lives to the Mystic Law. The Daishonin says: "Nichiren's disciples cannot accomplish anything if they are cowardly" ( WND 1 - pg 481). In accord with these words, let us cast aside cowardice and make courage our foremost attribute".

- Daisaku Ikeda