In volume 16 of The New Human Revolution, Ikeda Sensei meets with members in Okinawa who are energetically carrying out their Buddhist practice despite their advanced age. Encouraged by their spirit, Sensei offers these words.
“Older people have great strength. Their tremendous life experience gives them a fundamental wisdom about living. They also have an extensive network of friends and acquaintances. When such people make an earnest effort for kosen-rufu, they can demonstrate many times the ability of young people.
“Let’s advance together with the determination to share Buddhism with everyone we know.” …
“Your efforts are truly admirable. Please take care of your health and continue doing your utmost.
“Nichiren states: ‘For example, the journey from Kamakura to Kyoto takes twelve days. If you travel for eleven but stop with only one day remaining, how can you admire the moon over the capital?’ (“Letter to Niike,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 1027). In other words, to attain Buddhahood in this existence, we must walk the path of faith without stopping, until the last moment. We were born into this world as Bodhisattvas of the Earth to work for kosen-rufu, for the happiness of others and for the prosperity of society throughout our lives.” …
“Your efforts are truly admirable. Please take care of your health and continue doing your utmost.”
“[Founding Soka Gakkai President Tsunesaburo] Makiguchi, who was also advanced in age, carried on his struggle even in prison, asserting the truth of Nichiren Buddhism to the very end. I, too, am resolved to keep striving as long as I live, into my 70s and 80s. I will keep speaking, keep writing, keep calling out for justice. If I am no longer able to walk, I will still be able to write. And if I can’t use my hands, I’ll still be able to talk about Buddhism. I’ll still be able to chant to the Gohonzon and read Nichiren Daishonin’s writings.
“I will continue exerting myself until my last breath leaves my body, even if I have to crawl on all fours. That’s my determination. Please watch me. For that is the path of Buddhism and will represent the total victory of my life.” (pp. 55–56)
Today, Sensei continues to live this guidance as an example for the Many Treasures Group. He is still exerting himself writing and encouraging members throughout the world at the age of 94.
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