The First 100 Days Are Decisive

This installment of “Living the Writings: Words of Encouragement from SGI President Ikeda,” was originally published in the July 22, 2011, issue of the Soka Gakkai’s daily newspaper, Seikyo Shimbun.

[In China long ago, the general] T’ai-kung Wang undertook to invade the Yin realm because the Earl of the West [King Wen of the Chou dynasty, who had sought out his services,] had treated him with due courtesy, and [the military strategist] Chang Liang weighed how to overthrow the Ch’in dynasty because he was moved by the sincerity of the king of Han [Emperor Kao-tsu, whom he served]. These men were both fitted to the age and gained proper recognition. Thus within the tents of command they were able to devise strategies that assured victory a thousand miles away. (“The Day Before Yesterday,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 2, p. 391)

Ikeda Sensei: To all newly appointed leaders in each area, congratulations on your fresh departures!

An old proverb says, “Seize the initiative and you will win.” The first hundred days after one’s leadership appointment are decisive.

Sincerity is the foremost requirement for leaders of the SGI. Victory will be determined by prayer based on a powerful vow for kosen-rufu, thorough discussion and initiative taken by our leaders.